Anyone who has been named as a suspect in a murder investigation knows just how serious these allegations are. Every aspect of your life is now engulfed in your defense, because your future depends on it. The experienced Allentown murder attorneys at van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim are determined to protect you as you face the most critical moment in your life. A serious charge deserves a serious defense, and that is exactly what you’ll get with our experienced legal team.
Innocent Until Proven Guilty: Protecting your Rights
Although prosecutors may act as though you’re already guilty, defendants are innocent unless proven otherwise. From the moment you are involved in a murder investigation, you have rights, and van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim is here to ensure those rights are safeguarded. Remember from the onset, you:
- May choose to remain silent: you are under no obligation to answer any questions beyond basic identification without your attorney at your side;
- May confront witnesses: during the course of a trial, your capable legal team will uncover any bias, misstatements, or inconsistencies;
- May have a trial before a jury of your peers;
- May have a speedy, public trial;
- Have the right to avoid double jeopardy (you can’t be tried for the same crime after being found innocent once).
Potential Charges
Depending on the circumstances, you may be facing an array of potential charges and penalties. The maximum penalties for murder are daunting, making it essential that you have an established, knowledgeable legal team on your side. Your aggressive legal team at van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim will work tirelessly to prove your innocence. This is no time for shortcuts, considering the possibilities:
- Involuntary manslaughter occurs when negligence or recklessness, such as driving under the influence of alcohol, results in a person’s death. A guilty verdict could result in fines and prison time.
- Voluntary manslaughter is often called a “crime of passion,” and a guilty conviction could result in up to 20 years of prison time;
- Third-degree murder may encompass a number of situations wherein malice was present, and may result in up to 40 years imprisonment;
- Second-degree murder occurs when an individual is the principal, or is an accomplice during the commission of a felony. The penalty may be life without parole;
- First-degree murder is an intentional killing, and is punishable by life without parole. The death penalty is possible in some cases, as well.
We have your Best Interests at Heart
Your future is in serious peril. At van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim we are undaunted in the defense of our clients. Whatever the legal challenge, we find a way to navigate the legal landscape in order to provide a robust defense. Contact our Allentown office today for a free, confidential consultation.
