Chicago Homicide Defense Lawyers

Defense Attorney for Murder in Cook County, Illinois

Charges related to causing the death of another person are the most serious allegations that can be brought against an individual under criminal law. You are probably familiar with words like murder, manslaughter, and homicide but may not be sure what each means in the context of the Illinois justice system. As with most legal terms and areas of the law, the differences between them are extremely important and understanding them is a crucial first step toward an appropriate defense. At Luisi Legal Group, our Chicago homicide defense lawyers realize that responsible representation is vital in protecting your rights and future, especially when you are facing charges related to homicide.

Legal Counsel Defending Homicide Charges

Illinois law defines homicide as the intentional or unintentional killing of another person. The intent, of course, plays a significant role in the nature and severity of criminal charges, but even an unintentional homicide can dramatically impact the rest of your life. The Illinois Criminal Code recognizes three primary types of intentional homicides:

• First-Degree Murder - Acts which cause a death committed with knowledge and intent to kill or cause great bodily harm, or while committing a forcible felony.
• Second-Degree Murder - Acts that would be considered first-degree murder with mitigating factors, including being seriously provoked, or the honest yet mistaken belief that the killing was justified under the circumstances.
• Intentional Homicide/Voluntary Manslaughter of an Unborn Child - Technically, these are two separate offenses, roughly equivalent to first-degree and second-degree murder, respectively, involving an unborn child victim.

A defendant convicted of first-degree murder could potentially face life in prison without the possibility of parole, depending on the severity of the case and the nature of the offense. Most convictions carry at least a 20-year prison sentences, with additional time added for the use of a firearm. If you are facing charges of first-degree murder, our experienced attorneys are ready to help. We will work toward the best possible outcome for your situation, whether that means a full acquittal on all charges or plea agreement to lesser charges.

Involuntary Manslaughter and Reckless Homicide in Illinois

Unintentional homicide is often prosecuted as involuntary manslaughter or reckless homicide. Involuntary manslaughter can be charged for reckless actions, except those related to the operation of a motor vehicle, that resulted in the death of another person. Those related to the operation of a motor vehicle, such as driving under the influence (DUI), reckless driving, or causing an accident that results in death, are prosecutable as reckless homicide. Both are felony charges with penalties varying depending on the circumstances of the case.

For more than 15 years, Luisi Legal Group has handled the most serious criminal cases in venues throughout Cook County. Our experienced Chicago homicide defense lawyers have helped thousands of clients avoid a conviction with our working knowledge of the law and our commitment to justice. Our experienced attorneys have built an impressive track-record of success and have claimed numerous courtroom victories. When you work with our firm, you can be sure that we have handled cases like yours and that we win cases like yours.

If you or a loved one has been charged with murder or another violent crime, contact the Chicago office of Luisi Legal Group. You must act quickly. Call 773-276-5541 for a free initial consultation today. We are proud to serve clients in Chicago, Bucktown, Lincoln Park, Humboldt Park, Wicker Park, and other neighborhoods throughout Cook County.