Wichita Attempted Murder
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Common Defenses for Attempted Murder Charges
In attempted murder cases, an alleged offender’s inability to actually carry out their intended crime does not work as a defense. However, there are still a number of possible defenses that may be available to you. These include:
A lawyer will be able to conduct an independent investigation of your case and work to secure all possible evidence that proves your innocence. They will identify which defense is the most strategic for the unique details of your case. An attorney will also be able to view all of the evidence that a prosecutor has and identify all of the weaknesses in their case. The lawyer can then negotiate for a possible reduction in or dismissal of the criminal charges.
- Mistaken identity: If you were incorrectly identified by law enforcement or witnesses, you may be able to prove that you were not at the scene of the crime or otherwise prove your innocence. This defense will generally require providing an alibi or casting doubts on a witness’ credibility.
- Self defense: In certain circumstances, you may be able to argue that your actions were in self defense. For this defense to hold, your actions must have been reasonable and equitable. Self defense as a defense for attempted murder will generally only work as a defense if you feared you would die otherwise.
- Defense of others: This defense works the same way as self defense. If you believed that only an attempted murder would save the life of someone else, you may be able to use this defense.
- No risk of death: Your lawyer may be able to argue that your actions were not capable of or intended to cause fatal injuries. This defense can get your charges reduced to attempted assault charges, which come with much less serious penalties.
- Illegal search and seizure: Police must follow strict protocols when carrying out arrests and gathering evidence. If they violated any regulations, the evidence against you may be thrown out. Because criminal cases must be proven within a reasonable doubt, missing evidence could cast enough doubt on your guilt to get you acquitted.
- Renunciation defense: A person could argue that they decided not to commit a murder, possibly in the middle of their attempt. Renunciation can be a very difficult claim to prove, as an alleged offender typically must be able to point to a specific event that demonstrates their unwillingness to actually commit capital murder.
A lawyer will be able to conduct an independent investigation of your case and work to secure all possible evidence that proves your innocence. They will identify which defense is the most strategic for the unique details of your case. An attorney will also be able to view all of the evidence that a prosecutor has and identify all of the weaknesses in their case. The lawyer can then negotiate for a possible reduction in or dismissal of the criminal charges.
Contact Us For a Free Consultation
If you were arrested or you believe that you might be under investigation for an alleged attempted murder in Kansas, time is of the essence. Contact Pratt Law, LLC before speaking to law enforcement. Even if you are innocent, attempting to explain yourself or the situation can be very damaging to your case. It is much safer to wait until you have consulted an attorney.
I am committed to helping you achieve the most favorable possible outcome to your case. This means the outcome that carries the fewest penalties. I am here to help you understand your rights and legal options, so call (316) 262-2600 or reach out online to schedule a confidential consultation today.
I am committed to helping you achieve the most favorable possible outcome to your case. This means the outcome that carries the fewest penalties. I am here to help you understand your rights and legal options, so call (316) 262-2600 or reach out online to schedule a confidential consultation today.