Homicide Defense Lawyers in Minnesota

Murder is the most serious crime which can be prosecuted in Minnesota courts. When a death occurs, First Degree murder is the only criminal offense which can result in a life sentence in Minnesota State courts. Few attorneys have represented individuals charged with murder or manslaughter and, because of the serious consequences associated with this crime, many lawyers will not represent individuals charged with murder or manslaughter. However, Glenn P. Bruder has successfully represented murder defendants and persons suspected of murder.

When a death occurs in Minnesota, a person can be prosecuted for one or more different types of crimes. These include:

First Degree Murder

First Degree murder occurs when a death is caused “with premeditation and with intent”, during the commission of certain crimes, or where the victim is a police office or prison guard. The sentence for a murder conviction is “imprisonment for life”.

Second Degree Murder

Second Degree murder occurs when a defendant acts “with intent to affect a death” of another person but “without premeditation”. A Second Degree murder may also take place during the commission of a drive-by shooting or, if a death results, even unintentionally, during the commission of certain crimes. Second Degree murder carries a maximum prison sentence of 40 years.

Third Degree Murder

This crime occurs when a person, acting without intent, causes a death “by perpetrating an act imminently dangerous to others, and evincing a depraved mind without regard to human life.” This offense carries a maximum penalty of 25 years imprisonment.

First Degree Manslaughter

This crime involves intentionally causing the death of another person “in the heat of passion” or during the commission of specified crimes. The maximum penalty for First Degree manslaughter is 15 years imprisonment.

Second Degree Manslaughter

A person who causes the death of another through “culpable negligence” which “creates an unreasonable risk and consciously takes chances of causing death or great bodily harm…” or though the commission of specified acts, including negligent discharge of a firearm, setting a spring gun, having a vicious animal, or child neglect is guilty of Second Degree manslaughter. Second Degree manslaughter has a maximum sentence of 10 years imprisonment.

Due to the significant penalties associated with these charges, it is important that an individual suspected or charged with a crime involving another’s death locate a competent criminal defense lawyer as quickly as possible. Glenn P. Bruder has successfully represented individuals charged or investigated for crimes involving the death of another and is willing to help you.