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Murder Defence Lawyers in Melbourne - Manslaughter Charges & Offences
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Experienced criminal defence lawyer
When it comes to defending the most serious charges in the legal system, you need the unwavering support of a firm known for skill, discretion, and courtroom experience. At Haitch Legal, we pride ourselves on being among the most trusted names for those facing charges of murder or manslaughter. Our team of dedicated murder defence lawyers in Melbourne ensures every detail is examined, every angle explored, and your legal rights vigorously defended from the outset.
With years of experience handling high-stakes cases, our murder defence lawyer approaches each matter with tailored strategies and a deep understanding of Victorian law. Whether negotiating a plea or preparing for a Supreme Court trial, we deliver sophisticated legal solutions with a commitment to results. When the stakes are this high, you deserve nothing less than Melbourne’s top-tier defence. So, without wasting any further time, hire the best lawyer that matches your preference and budget, hence you can get free from charges as soon as possible.
Need legal advice now? Call 03 8590 8370 to book your free consultation with a manslaughter and murder Defence lawyer in Melbourne today!
Client-Centred Support from Consultation to Courtroom:
From the first consultation, our legal team at Haitch Legal prioritizes you, not just your case. We offer clear communication, a strategic roadmap, and emotional support to help you understand your options properly at every stage with clarity. This client-focused approach is why we are frequently sought out as the best murder defence lawyers in Melbourne for serious charges.
Experienced Murder Defence Lawyer Melbourne:
Facing a murder or manslaughter charge is among the most serious legal challenges one can encounter. At Haitch Legal, our team of seasoned murder defence lawyers in Melbourne is committed to providing robust legal representation, ensuring that every client receives a fair trial and the best possible outcome.
Understanding Murder and Manslaughter Charges:
In Victoria, murder is defined as the intentional and unlawful killing of another person. Manslaughter, on the other hand, refers to unlawful killings without the intent to kill, often resulting from reckless or negligent actions. Both charges carry severe penalties, with murder potentially leading to life imprisonment and manslaughter up to 20 years. Murder and manslaughter may fall under a few categories:
- Attempted murder: The accused intended to take human life and made an attempt to kill
- Unintentional killing in the course of furtherance of a crime of violence: You were in the midst of committing a crime, and the victim died as a result
- Involuntary manslaughter (Negligent manslaughter, manslaughter by unlawful and dangerous act), the accused caused the victim’s death without intending to kill or injure them (e.g. criminal negligence where you owed the victim a duty of care)
- Voluntary manslaughter: The accused intended to cause the victim’s death, but there were certain circumstances that mitigated the offence (e.g. self-defence, provocation, survived a suicide pact)
- Infanticide: The person acted, or failed to act, in a way that resulted in the death of a child under 12 months
Due to the severity of murder charges, your case will be heard in the Supreme Court. We will be with you every step of the way to ensure that you get the best legal representation and advice.
Penalties for Murder Charges:
Maximum penalties for related charges include:
- Attempted murder – 25 years imprisonment
- Unintentional killing in the course of furtherance of a crime of violence – Life imprisonment
- Involuntary manslaughter – 20 years imprisonment
- Voluntary manslaughter – 20 years imprisonment
- Survivor of a suicide pact – 5 years imprisonment
- Infanticide – 5 years imprisonment
Cases may be more severe if the victim is an emergency worker, health professional, police officer or public official. Unlike any other criminal offence, pleading guilty will not help you avoid jail time, though you may be able to get a reduced sentence. Ultimately, the court will decide on the most appropriate penalty.
Affordable Criminal Defence Services in Melbourne:
Legal representation is crucial, but it doesn’t have to be financially burdensome. At Haitch Legal, we offer competitive rates for our services:
- Entry-level lawyer: $1… per hour
- Junior lawyer (1 year of experience): $1… per hour
- Intermediate lawyer (2-4 years of experience): $1… per hour
- Senior lawyer (5+ years of experience): Up to $1… per hour
We also provide fixed fees for various legal scenarios, ensuring transparency and affordability.
Top-Rated Murder Defence Lawyer in Melbourne:
Our reputation as a leading murder defence Lawyer and law firm in Melbourne is built on years of successful case outcomes and client satisfaction. We understand the complications of the legal system and are experienced at navigating complex cases, ensuring that our clients’ rights are protected at every stage.
Lawyers for Attempted Murder Charges:
Attempted murder charges are grave and require a meticulous defence strategy. Our team is experienced in handling such cases, focusing on:
- Challenging the prosecution’s evidence
- Establishing a lack of intent
- Highlighting procedural errors
By examining every detail, we aim to secure the best possible outcome for our clients.
Legal Process and Court Proceedings:
Murder and manslaughter cases are typically heard in the Supreme Court of Victoria. The legal process involves:
- Committal Hearing: Determines if there’s sufficient evidence for a trial.
- Trial: Both prosecution and defence present their cases.
- Verdict and Sentencing: Based on the trial’s outcome.
Our murder defence lawyers guide clients through each step, ensuring clarity and preparation.
Defence Strategies in Murder Cases:
Every case is unique, but common defence strategies include:
- Self-defence: Arguing the act was in response to an immediate threat.
- Lack of intent: Demonstrating the absence of intent to kill.
- Mental impairment: Establishing that the accused was not of sound mind.
- Duress: Proving the act was committed under threat or coercion.
Our team meticulously evaluates each case to determine the most effective defence approach.
Expertise in Handling Complex Cases:
Beyond murder and manslaughter, our expertise extends to related charges such as:
- Infanticide: Causing the death of a child under 12 months.
- Voluntary Manslaughter: Killing in the “heat of passion.”
- Involuntary Manslaughter: Unintentional killing due to reckless actions.
Our comprehensive understanding ensures that clients receive holistic legal support.
Why Choose Haitch Legal?
- Experience: Years of handling high-profile cases.
- Client-Centric Approach: Prioritizing clients’ needs and concerns.
- Transparent Pricing: Clear fee structures with no hidden costs.
- Accessibility: Multiple office locations across Melbourne.
Top Five Frequently Asked Questions:
Murder involves intentional killing, while manslaughter refers to unintentional killing due to negligence or recklessness.
Bail is challenging but possible. Factors include the strength of the evidence and the accused’s background.
Duration varies but can span several months, depending on the case’s complexity.
A plea deal involves the accused pleading guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a reduced sentence.
We provide comprehensive legal support, from case evaluation to courtroom representation, ensuring your rights are upheld.
Contact us
For comprehensive legal support in murder and manslaughter cases, consider reaching out to Haitch Legal.
Get in touch with our murder defence lawyers in Melbourne today. Our expertise and dedication make us a reliable choice for those seeking justice in Melbourne.
Call us now on (03) 8590 8370 for a free and confidential consultation
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Level 1, 416 Sydney Road, Coburg VIC 3058 (Central Melbourne)
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