Experienced Attorneys For Murder/Homicide
Murder convictions carry some of the heaviest legal consequences, resulting in a life sentence or the death penalty. Here at Waldron & Williams, John J. Waldron has murder trial experience to defend your best interest. Every case is unique which is why you need legal advice and services tailored to your case. He has experience in state and federal courts dealing with law enforcement and judges that he will harness to help you seek a favorable outcome.
Understanding Pennsylvania Homicide Charges
There are many different types of homicide charges in Pennsylvania, including:
- First-degree murder: An intentional, premeditated killing
- Second-degree murder: A death occurring in connection to the commission of certain felonies
- Third-degree murder: Killings involving malice without premeditation
- Voluntary manslaughter: Killing while acting under a sudden/intense passion triggered by a serious provocation, or under an unreasonable belief that it was justified.
- Involuntary manslaughter: Death resulting from unlawful action, recklessness or gross negligence
- Vehicular homicide: A fatal crash involving a traffic violation and gross negligence or recklessness
- DUI homicide: A death resulting from driving under the influence
The charges vary significantly in their potential penalties. Turn to us for the knowledgeable defense you need when facing any type of homicide charge.
Protecting Your Rights During A Homicide Investigation
When facing homicide allegations, what happens in the first 48 hours have huge impacts on your future. If police question you, it is generally best to exercise your right to remain silent and ask for an attorney immediately. Prosecutors can use statements you give against you in court. A skilled defense lawyer can intervene early to help you avoid potentially life-changing mistakes. Attorney Waldron understands what homicide investigations involve and is ready to protect your rights at every step.
Defending Against Vehicular Homicide Charges In Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, homicide by vehicle is the crime of causing a death by acting in a reckless or grossly negligent manner while in violation of a traffic law. Accusations of this offense have the potential to impact you and your family long into the future. At Waldron & Williams, we provide tenacious defense representation for clients in Allentown and across the state who are facing life-altering charges, such as vehicular homicide. Our experienced vehicular homicide attorney understands what you are facing and is ready to give you the steadfast advocacy you need.
Vehicular Homicide Cases Demand A Trial-Ready Defense
As a third-degree felony, vehicular homicide carries incredibly serious penalties in Pennsylvania. For example, the maximum prison sentence is generally seven years, though there are certain circumstances where it can be higher. In the face of this, having a strong defense is critical. An experienced, trial-ready criminal defense attorney can stand up for you and your rights when the stakes are at their highest.
Protecting Your Future Throughout The Process
Navigating Pennsylvania’s criminal justice system in connection to vehicular homicide charges can be a long, intimidating and confusing process. Our criminal defense lawyer, John J. Waldron, has the experience and knowledge to guide you through every step. He does not back away from hard cases and will explore all options for safeguarding your future.
Common Questions About Vehicular Homicide Cases
Below are answers to frequently asked questions regarding these serious charges.
How do I prove this was truly an accident and not negligence?
In a vehicular homicide case, one of the things the prosecution must prove is that you acted recklessly or with gross negligence. There are various types of evidence that may be able to cast reasonable doubt on a prosecution’s arguments regarding this, such as vehicle logs, expert witness testimony and eyewitness statements. A skilled lawyer can help you understand what specific defense options you have.
What is the difference between vehicular homicide and manslaughter?
In Pennsylvania, vehicular homicide and vehicular manslaughter both refer to the same offense, so there is no practical difference between them. There is a separate offense for vehicle deaths involving DUI, which carries higher potential penalties. General manslaughter, meanwhile, involves nonvehicular deaths.
How will this affect my commercial driver’s license (CDL) and ability to work?
In Pennsylvania, a first vehicular homicide conviction involving a commercial vehicle typically results in a one-year ban from holding a CDL. This is just one example of how a conviction can have significant impacts on your career. It is among the reasons why acting quickly to protect your future is critical when vehicular homicide charges arise.
Should I talk to the victim’s family or insurance companies?
Even when your intentions are good, speaking to others about the accident could harm your case in unexpected ways. It is generally best to avoid making any statements to insurance adjusters or the victim’s family without first speaking to your attorney.
Put An Experienced Trial Lawyer In Your Corner
In Pennsylvania homicide cases, your very future is at stake. Having an experienced advocate in your corner can be key to protecting what matters most. Attorney Waldron has fought for clients in the courtroom for decades and has achieved an extensive track record of success. Contact us today by email or by phone at 610-435-9790 to learn more about how he can help you.