Homicide is the killing of one human being by another. Homicide can be either legal or illegal, and it can be either intentional or unintentional. In some cases, homicide may even be considered Justifiable. The legal definition of homicide varies from state to state, but there are generally three types of homicide: murder, manslaughter, and vehicular homicide.

Is Homicide Different Than Murder?

Murder is the most serious type of homicide. It is defined as the intentional killing of another person with malice aforethought. This means that the person committing murder must have intended to kill the victim and must have done so without any justifiable reason.

Homicide is the killing of one human being by another, while murder is a type of homicide that is slightly different. To be charged with murder, the act must have been committed with intent to kill. This means that the person accused of murder must have had the intention of taking another person’s life. There are different degrees of murder, including first-degree and second-degree murder, which are based on the severity of the crime.

What are Defenses to a Homicide Charge?

When someone is accused of homicide, there are some possible defenses that their attorney may raise. Some of the most common include:

  • Self-defense: If the defendant can show that they reasonably believed that they or someone else was in imminent danger of serious bodily harm or death and that they used deadly force only to the extent necessary to protect themselves or others, then this may be a valid defense.
  • Accidental homicide: An accidental homicide is a killing that was not intentional and did not involve any criminal intent. This type of homicide would be classified as involuntary manslaughter in the U.S. justice system. The person accused of the homicide must have caused the death through an act that was not premeditated or planned and must have had no prior intent to kill.
  • Insanity: In some cases, a person who commits homicide may be found not guilty because of insanity. This means that the person did not understand that their actions were wrong and, therefore, could not be held criminally responsible for the death.

When Should I Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney for Help?

If you or someone you know has been charged with homicide, contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can help you understand the charges against you and will work to build a strong defense. They can also ensure that your rights are protected throughout the legal process. We have experienced criminal defense attorneys who have represented clients charged with homicide. Contact us today at (317) 623-4546 for a free consultation.