Homicide Defense Attorneys

A charge of intentional murder is the most serious allegation under Washington law. If you or a loved one is facing murder or manslaughter charges, you deserve an experienced advocate who will fight to protect your rights and your freedom. At the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer, we provide aggressive defense for homicide cases throughout Southwest Washington.

It is important to understand that police investigations are not always thorough, and detectives sometimes exhibit investigatory bias, failing to consider alternative suspects or scenarios. An experienced defense attorney will conduct an independent investigation and hold the prosecution to its burden of proof.

First Degree Murder

First degree murder is a Class A felony under Washington law, carrying a maximum penalty of life in prison and a $50,000 fine. A conviction can result from an intentional killing with premeditation, death resulting from extreme indifference to human life, or death occurring during the commission of robbery, rape, burglary, arson, or kidnapping. The standard range sentence for first degree murder is 20 to 30 years in prison.

Aggravated First Degree Murder

First degree murder becomes "aggravated" when certain aggravating factors are present. A conviction for aggravated first degree murder carries a mandatory sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole. Aggravating factors include:

• The victim was a police officer or public official performing their duties
• The victim was a newspaper reporter
• The defendant was imprisoned on a felony or on leave from confinement
• "Murder for hire" agreement
• Gang initiation killing
• Drive-by shooting
• The victim was a judge, juror, witness, or attorney
• The killing was committed to conceal another crime
• Multiple victims as part of a common scheme
• The killing occurred during the commission of a serious felony
• The victim had a restraining order against the defendant
• Domestic violence offense with a history of abuse

Second Degree Murder

Second degree murder involves an intentional killing without premeditation. It also includes "felony murder," which occurs when a death results during the commission of a felony, even when there was no intent to kill. For example, a death caused during a traffic accident while fleeing police can be charged as second degree murder.

Manslaughter Charges

Enhancements apply for the use of a firearm or deadly weapon in manslaughter cases, which can add years to the sentence.

How We Can Help

Attorney Erin Bradley McAleer offers innovative and thorough defense approaches, with avoiding convictions as the primary goal. Our defense strategies include:

• Conducting thorough independent investigations with expert support
• Challenging forensic evidence, DNA, and ballistics
• Identifying investigatory bias and holding police to proper procedures
• Building self-defense and justifiable homicide arguments
• Negotiating reduced charges when appropriate

If you or a loved one faces homicide charges, contact McAleer Law immediately. Time is critical in these cases, and early legal intervention can make a significant difference in the outcome.