Kansas City Homicide Defense Attorneys

Types of Homicide Crimes

Murder

First-degree murder involves a deliberate and premeditated killing and is punishable by the death penalty or life imprisonment without parole (RSMo § 565.020). Second-degree murder involves knowingly causing death or causing death during the commission of another felony (RSMo § 565.021), which carries 10–30 years or life in prison. Both offenses are Class A felonies. 

Voluntary Manslaughter

Voluntary manslaughter involves causing a death under circumstances that would otherwise qualify as second-degree murder, except that the act occurred in the “heat of passion” due to adequate provocation, or where a person knowingly assists in a suicide. It is generally charged as a Class B felony punishable by 5–15 years in prison. 

Involuntary Manslaughter

First-degree involuntary manslaughter (RSMo § 565.024) occurs when someone recklessly causes the death of another person. This Class C felony carries 3–10 years in prison. Second-degree involuntary manslaughter (RSMo § 565.027) involves criminal negligence resulting in death. This Class E felony carries up to four years in prison. 

DWI with Death

When a DWI fatality occurs, defendants may face first-degree involuntary manslaughter charges. Enhanced penalties may apply depending on prior offenses, blood alcohol concentration, and other aggravating circumstances. This offense is typically charged as a Class C or Class B felony.

How We Deconstruct the Prosecution’s Timeline in Homicide Cases

In homicide cases, the prosecution may build its entire theory around a highly selective timeline of events that is rarely objective. We conduct independent investigations to uncover the hidden context that law enforcement may have overlooked or ignored.

We approach homicide cases by taking the timeline apart piece by piece. Instead of accepting a linear narrative, we examine what evidence is missing and where the sequence may have been oversimplified or distorted.

Below are some of the ways we work to deconstruct the state’s timeline:

• Subpoenaing cell phone location data, GPS records, and digital footprints to establish an alibi. 
• Analyzing surveillance footage and doorbell cameras to dispute claims regarding your actions leading up to the incident.
• Partnering with independent forensic experts to review the stated time of death and expose flaws in the prosecution’s case. 
• Locating witnesses to provide a complete account of the moments that the police failed to document.

Does Missouri Have the Death Penalty?

Missouri utilizes the death penalty for the most severe criminal convictions. Capital punishment is reserved exclusively for defendants convicted of first-degree murder. To pursue this ultimate penalty, the prosecution must prove that the defendant acted with deliberation. Additionally, the accused must have been 18 or older at the time of the offense. 

When your life is on the line, you can’t afford a passive legal strategy. Our defense lawyers prepare every capital case with a trial-ready mindset from day one. We can work tirelessly to dismantle the case against you and fight for a reduction or outright dismissal when possible to preserve your life and liberty.

Leveling the Playing Field Against the State’s Unlimited Resources

Facing a homicide charge can feel like the entire world has turned against you. The criminal justice system operates with vast resources and entire departments of detectives, government forensic labs, and prosecutors who are solely focused on securing a conviction.

For an everyday person, going up against this massive machine can be isolating. We built our firm specifically to stand as a shield between you and the government. Our attorneys work to level the playing field by matching the state’s resources with our own independent experts, private investigators, and decades of courtroom advocacy.

By taking the time to listen to your side of the story, we can craft a strategic and personalized defense designed to neutralize the prosecution’s advantage and safeguard your freedom and future. Our legal team is available 24/7 to take your call and discuss your case. 

Contact Our Homicide Defense Lawyers for a Case Evaluation

Facing any type of homicide charge is one of the most terrifying situations a person can endure. Consulting with our homicide defense lawyers is paramount to pursuing a fair outcome. Our attorneys are dedicated to providing the aggressive advocacy you deserve while safeguarding your rights at each stage of the criminal process. 

If you were charged with a homicide, don’t put off legal representation until it’s too late. From analyzing the evidence against you to negotiating with the prosecution, we leverage our advanced knowledge of criminal law and decades of experience in high-stakes homicide cases to relentlessly protect your future. 

Don’t throw away your life after a homicide charge by failing to secure a strong defense. Contact us online to discuss your case with our time-tested attorneys.