Murder Defense in Chicago

Experienced Legal Counsel from Our Murder Defense Lawyer

If you are arrested and charged with murder in Illinois, your life will change forever. Even before the trial even starts, you may already be considered guilty in the eyes of the prosecution, media, and public. Not only are you facing the possibility of life in prison, but your reputation can be permanently damaged.

At the Law Office of Steven Fine, our Chicago murder attorney is prepared to protect your rights, reputation, and freedom. With more than 20 years of experience, he has a thorough understanding of state and federal laws and court proceedings to help you navigate through the possible complexities of your violent crime case.

Do not hesitate to get skilled and reliable legal assistance today by calling (312) 436-0638 today.

Murder Penalties

There are two types of murder/homicide charges in Illinois – first-degree murder and second-degree murder. Out of the two charges, first degree is considered the most serious. To prove that someone committed first-degree murder, the prosecutor must demonstrate beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant killed another person without lawful justification and either one or more of the following:

• Intended to kill or commit great bodily harm to that person (or understood that the act would do so)
• Knowledge that the acts ensure a strong possibility of causing death or great bodily harm to the person
• The defendant was attempting or committed a forcible felony (besides second-degree murder)

First-degree murder is punishable by a minimum prison sentence of 20 years and a maximum prison sentence of 60 years. However, if aggravating factors are present, such as the murder of a child, elderly person, corrections officer, etc., a defendant may face life in prison.

The difference between first-degree murder and second-degree murder is that the latter was committed when the defendant was in a “state of sudden and intense passion” caused by significant provocation. Second-degree murder is considered a Class 1 felony, punishable by a prison sentence of four and twenty years and a fine of up to $25,000.