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Murder, also known as homicide, is a grave crime that has been the subject of scrutiny and punishment in Tennessee’s legal system. If you find yourself facing murder charges in Tennessee, you’ll want an experienced trial lawyer like Attorney David L. Clarke from The Clarke Law Firm to defend your rights and provide you with quality representation.
Tennessee law recognizes different degrees of murder, each carrying distinct legal consequences:
First-Degree Murder
Under Tennessee law – Tennessee Code Section 39-13-202 – first-degree murder involves any of the following:
● A premeditated and intentional killing of another person
● Killing another person while engaging in first-degree murder, rape, an act of terrorism, burglary, arson, robbery, kidnapping, theft, aggravated rape, or aggravated child neglect.
● Causing the death of another individual through the unauthorized use of a bomb or explosive device.
A conviction for first-degree murder can result in life imprisonment or even the death penalty.
Second-Degree Murder
Under Tennessee Code Section 39-13-210, second-degree murder involves:
● Causing death with intent.
● Causing death through the illegal distribution of drugs.
● Causing death through the illegal distribution, dispensation, or delivery of fentanyl or carfentanil.
This is a Class A felony.
Under Tennessee Code Section 39-13-211, voluntary manslaughter is defined as the intentional killing of another person while in a state of intense emotional distress or provoked to the point where a reasonable person might act irrationally. This is a Class B felony amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts.
In Tennessee, criminally negligent homicide pertains to any negligent behavior or action that results in the death of another person. This is a Class E felony.
According to Tennessee law, vehicular homicide is a criminal offense that occurs when a person is fatally injured from being hit by a car, motor vehicle, motorboat, or airplane due to the driver’s reckless actions, which can include factors like intoxication, drag racing, or behavior that poses a significant risk of serious bodily harm or death. Depending on the exact circumstances of your case, you can be charged with a Class B, Class C, or Class D felony.
As outlined in Tennessee Code Section 39-13-215, reckless homicide refers to the act of causing the death of another person through reckless behavior. This is a Class D felony.
The penalties for murder convictions in Tennessee are severe, reflecting the gravity of the crime. If convicted of first-degree murder, the consequences can be life-altering, including the possibility of a life sentence without parole or even the death penalty. Second-degree murder carries substantial prison time, while voluntary and involuntary manslaughter also leads to significant periods of incarceration.
Given the dire consequences associated with murder convictions, it is absolutely critical to have a skilled and experienced attorney by your side. Attorney David L. Clarke, of The Clarke Law Firm, is dedicated to defending individuals facing murder or homicide charges. With his talent and legal expertise, he will vigorously advocate for your rights, construct a robust defense strategy, and explore all avenues to secure the best possible outcome for your case.
If you are facing murder or homicide charges in Tennessee, you do not have to face this daunting legal battle alone. Contact The Clarke Law Firm today and retain quality representation for your case. Attorney David L. Clarke will stand by your side, fighting relentlessly to achieve the best possible outcome and ensure that your rights are protected. Don’t wait; your future depends on the actions you take today.
Through unique case solutions and aggressive representation our attorney at The Clarke Law Firm knows how to handle your case. Handling criminal defense and personal injury cases, we are fully prepared to handle any legal matter. Contact our attorney today and begin reviewing your case with our local law firm.
The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship.