NYC Murder Defense Lawyer

When facing homicide charges in New York City, the gravity of the situation cannot be overstated. At Konta Georges & Buza P.C., our team of dedicated homicide defense lawyers understand that your life, liberty, and future hang in the balance. We approach each murder case with the utmost seriousness, bringing decades of combined experience in New York criminal law to your defense.

Our homicide defense lawyers have successfully represented clients across all five boroughs of NYC, building strong defenses against the most severe allegations under New York law. We know that effective representation in murder cases requires both comprehensive legal knowledge and a strategic approach tailored to the unique circumstances of each case.

Types of Murder Charges We Defend Against

As dedicated homicide defense lawyers serving New York City, Konta Georges & Buza P.C. provides aggressive representation for clients facing all categories of homicide charges under New York law.

• First-Degree Murder: The most serious homicide charge in New York, typically involving premeditated killing with aggravating factors such as multiple victims, killing of a law enforcement officer, or murder committed during another felony. Our murder defense lawyers team meticulously examines every element the prosecution must prove.
• Second-Degree Murder: Includes intentional killings without first-degree aggravating factors, depraved indifference murder, and felony murder (deaths occurring during the commission of certain felonies). Our murder defense lawyers analyzes all evidence to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
• First-Degree Manslaughter: Involves causing death while intending to cause serious physical injury, or causing death while under extreme emotional disturbance. We develop strategic defenses based on the specific circumstances and evidence in each case.
• Second-Degree Manslaughter: Charged when a person recklessly causes the death of another person without intent to kill. Our murder defense lawyers team investigates all aspects to determine if the prosecution can prove the required element of recklessness.
• Vehicular Manslaughter: Involves causing death while driving recklessly or while impaired by drugs or alcohol. We thoroughly examine all accident reports, witness statements, and toxicology results to build the strongest possible defense.
• Negligent Homicide: The least severe homicide charge, alleging that criminal negligence caused a death. Our murder defense lawyers works to demonstrate that the required level of negligence cannot be proven beyond reasonable doubt.
• Felony Murder: A charge brought when a death occurs during the commission of certain felonies, even if the defendant did not personally cause the death. We analyze the underlying felony charges and challenge the prosecution’s ability to establish the necessary causal connection.
• Depraved Indifference Murder: Involves conduct so wanton and deficient in moral sense that it demonstrates a depraved indifference to human life. Our murder defense lawyers team works to show that the evidence does not rise to this extreme standard.

At Konta Georges & Buza P.C., we understand the complexities of New York homicide law and develop customized defense strategies for each specific charge. Contact our murder defense lawyers team today for a confidential consultation about your case.

What Are The Penalties for a Murder Conviction?

As homicide defense lawyers practicing in New York City, Konta Georges & Buza P.C. understands that clients facing murder charges need clear information about the severe penalties they potentially face.

• First-Degree Murder Sentencing: A conviction carries a minimum of 20 years to life imprisonment, with the possibility of life without parole in the most aggravated cases. Our murder defense lawyers team works tirelessly to prevent these extreme sentences.
• Second-Degree Murder Penalties: Convictions typically result in 15-25 years to life imprisonment, meaning you must serve the minimum term before parole eligibility. Our criminal defense lawyer develops strategies aimed at charge reduction or acquittal to avoid these harsh consequences.
• First-Degree Manslaughter Consequences: This Class B violent felony carries a determinate sentence of 5-25 years, with mandatory post-release supervision of 5 years. We fight to minimize exposure to these significant penalties.
• Second-Degree Manslaughter Punishment: As a Class C felony, this conviction can result in 3-15 years imprisonment. Our murder defense lawyers team challenges the prosecution’s evidence of recklessness to protect you from these penalties.
• Vehicular Homicide Sentencing: Penalties range from 1-15 years depending on aggravating factors like prior DWI convictions or high blood alcohol content. We scrutinize all evidence to build the strongest possible defense against these charges.
• Felony Murder Ramifications: Even if you didn’t directly cause a death, participation in certain felonies resulting in death can lead to murder charges with 15-25 years to life imprisonment. Our murder defense lawyersexamines the underlying felony charges to develop effective defenses.
• Mandatory Surcharges and Fees: In addition to imprisonment, convicted individuals face substantial court fees, surcharges, and potential restitution orders. We consider the financial impact of all potential outcomes when developing defense strategies.
• Post-Release Supervision: Most homicide convictions require mandatory post-release supervision periods of 3-5 years with strict conditions. Our murder defense lawyers helps clients understand these long-term consequences.
• Collateral Consequences: A murder conviction creates lifelong barriers to employment, housing, voting rights, and other opportunities beyond the formal sentence. We fight to prevent these devastating lifelong effects.

How Our Murder Defense Lawyers Will Defend You and Your Rights

At Konta Georges & Buza P.C., our homicide defense lawyers employ proven strategies and thorough methodologies to protect your constitutional rights and build the strongest possible defense against murder charges in New York City.

• Comprehensive Case Investigation: Our criminal defense lawyer team conducts exhaustive investigations that go beyond police reports, including interviewing witnesses, consulting forensic specialists, and examining crime scene evidence to uncover facts favorable to your defense.
• Constitutional Rights Protection: We meticulously examine all aspects of your arrest and interrogation to identify any violations of your Miranda rights, improper search and seizure issues, or other police misconduct that could lead to evidence suppression.
• Challenging Forensic Evidence: Our homicide defense lawyers work with top forensic experts to scrutinize DNA analysis, ballistics, fingerprint evidence, and autopsy reports, often revealing critical flaws in the prosecution’s scientific evidence.
• Witness Credibility Assessment: We thoroughly investigate prosecution witnesses to identify inconsistencies, biases, or motivations that might undermine their testimony and credibility before a jury.
• Strategic Defense Development: Based on your specific case details, our criminal defense lawyer team crafts customized defense strategies that may include self-defense claims, defense of others, alibi evidence, or mistaken identity arguments.
• Mental Health Considerations: When appropriate, we explore whether mental health factors might support diminished capacity defenses or justify charge reductions in your homicide case.
• Alternative Suspect Investigation: Our homicide defense lawyers diligently pursue leads regarding other potential perpetrators that law enforcement may have overlooked or dismissed prematurely.
• Jury Selection Strategy: We employ sophisticated jury selection techniques to identify jurors who will fairly consider your defense and recognize the high burden of proof in homicide cases.
• Negotiation Leverage: While preparing thoroughly for trial, our criminal defense lawyer team simultaneously works to negotiate potential charge reductions or favorable plea agreements when appropriate for your situation.
• Courtroom Advocacy: Our homicide defense lawyers bring compelling presentation skills to deliver persuasive opening statements, conduct effective cross-examinations, and present closing arguments that resonate with jurors.
• Sentencing Advocacy: If conviction occurs, we vigorously advocate for minimum sentencing by presenting mitigating factors and compelling personal background information to the court.

What To Do If Charged with Murder in NYC

The actions you take immediately following these charges can significantly impact your case outcome.

• Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent: Avoid discussing your case with anyone other than your homicide defense lawyer, as statements to police, friends, family, or cellmates can be used against you in court. Remember that your constitutional right to remain silent is your strongest protection in the early stages.
• Secure Legal Representation Immediately: Contact a dedicated criminal defense lawyer with specific experience in homicide cases before answering any questions or participating in any police procedures. Early intervention by your defense team can prevent critical mistakes and begin preserving evidence.
• Avoid Discussing Your Case on Phone or Visits: Be aware that jail phone calls and visits are monitored and recorded, and any case discussions can be used by prosecutors. Wait to discuss case details until meeting privately with your homicide defense lawyer.
• Preserve All Potential Evidence: If you have access to any potential evidence before being taken into custody, ensure it is preserved and brought to your criminal defense lawyer’s attention immediately. This includes text messages, emails, social media posts, and potential alibis.
• Document Police Interactions: Make detailed notes about all interactions with law enforcement, including any potential violations of your rights during arrest or questioning. Your homicide defense lawyer can use this information to potentially suppress improper evidence.
• Identify Potential Witnesses: Create a list of anyone who might have information favorable to your defense, including alibi witnesses or people with knowledge about alternative suspects. Your criminal defense lawyer needs this information as soon as possible while memories remain fresh.
• Maintain Personal Conduct Standards: While in custody, avoid conflicts with other inmates or correctional officers, as prosecutors may try to use behavioral issues against you. Your homicide defense lawyer can advise you on appropriate conduct during detention.
• Address Mental Health Needs: If you have existing mental health conditions or develop depression or anxiety while in custody, seek appropriate care and inform your criminal defense lawyer. These factors may be relevant to your defense strategy or pretrial detention conditions.
• Prepare for Bail Hearings: Work with your homicide defense lawyer to gather information that supports pretrial release, including community ties, employment history, and lack of flight risk. In murder cases, bail is challenging but sometimes possible with proper representation.
• Trust the Attorney-Client Privilege: Be completely honest with your criminal defense lawyer about all case details, as this privilege protects your communications and allows your attorney to build the strongest possible defense strategy.

Common Defenses to NYC Murder Charges

As experienced homicide defense lawyers in New York City, Konta Georges & Buza P.C. develops strategic defenses tailored to each client’s unique circumstances while challenging the prosecution’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

• Self-Defense: When evidence supports that you reasonably believed you were in imminent danger of death or serious injury, our homicide defense lawyer team can build a compelling case that your actions were legally justified. New York law recognizes the right to protect yourself from violent threats.
• Defense of Others: Similar to self-defense, this involves acting to protect another person from imminent harm or death. Our criminal defense lawyer carefully gathers evidence demonstrating the reasonable perception of threat to the third party you were protecting.
• Mistaken Identity/Alibi: We thoroughly investigate and document evidence proving you were elsewhere when the crime occurred or that eyewitness identifications are unreliable. Our murder defense lawyers challenge identification procedures and present alibi witnesses effectively.
• Insufficient Evidence: The prosecution must prove every element of a murder charge beyond a reasonable doubt. Our murder defense lawyers team meticulously identifies gaps in the evidence, inconsistencies in witness testimony, and weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
• Lack of Intent: For intentional murder charges, we may demonstrate that you did not possess the required intent to cause death. Our murder defense lawyers examine all circumstances surrounding the incident to challenge this critical element.
• Crime Scene and Forensic Challenges: We scrutinize forensic evidence, from DNA and fingerprints to ballistics and blood spatter analysis, often working with independent experts to identify flaws in collection, testing, or interpretation. Our criminal defense lawyer team has successfully challenged numerous “scientific” conclusions.
• Justified Use of Force: Beyond self-defense, certain circumstances may legally justify the use of deadly force. Our homicide defense lawyers analyze whether your actions fall within New York’s legal justifications, such as preventing certain violent felonies.
• Violation of Constitutional Rights: We investigate whether police violated your rights during investigation, arrest, or interrogation. Our criminal defense lawyer team pursues suppression of evidence obtained through illegal searches, Miranda violations, or coerced confessions.
• Mental Health Defenses: In appropriate cases, conditions affecting mental state may support diminished capacity, extreme emotional disturbance, or insanity defenses. Our homicide defense lawyers work with qualified mental health professionals to develop these complex defenses when applicable.
• Accidental Death/No Criminal Act: We examine whether the death resulted from a genuine accident rather than criminal conduct. Our murder defense lawyers team investigates to demonstrate absence of the recklessness or negligence required for criminal liability.
• Procedural Violations: Our homicide defense lawyers identify procedural errors in the handling of evidence, witness interviews, or grand jury proceedings that may support dismissal motions or significantly weaken the prosecution’s case.

Get Immediate Defense for NYC Murder Charges

When facing homicide charges, time is critical. Contact our homicide defense lawyers today for a confidential consultation. At Konta Georges & Buza P.C., we stand ready to protect your rights, freedom, and future with the strategic, aggressive defense you deserve. Don’t face these serious allegations alone—reach out now and let our criminal defense lawyer team fight for you.

NYC Murder Defense Lawyer FAQs

How soon after a homicide arrest should I contact a defense attorney?

You should contact a homicide defense lawyer immediately following arrest, ideally before any police questioning occurs. Early representation allows our criminal defense lawyer team to protect your rights during interrogation, preserve critical evidence, and begin building your defense strategy while events are still fresh.

Can murder charges be reduced to lesser offenses in New York?

Yes, through effective negotiation and strategic defense work, our homicide defense lawyers have successfully had charges reduced from murder to manslaughter or other lesser offenses in appropriate cases. Factors such as evidence strength, mental state, provocation, and mitigating circumstances can support charge reduction.

Will my case definitely go to trial if I’m charged with murder?

Not necessarily. While our criminal defense lawyer team prepares every case as if it will proceed to trial, many homicide cases are resolved through plea negotiations or even dismissed before trial when our investigation reveals critical flaws in the prosecution’s case or constitutional violations.

How long does a typical murder case take to resolve in New York City?

Murder cases typically take 12-24 months to resolve, though complex cases may take longer. Our homicide defense lawyers work diligently to move your case forward while still taking the necessary time to build the strongest possible defense and challenge the prosecution’s evidence.

What happens at the arraignment for a murder charge?

At arraignment, you will be formally charged, bail will be considered, and initial plea entered. Our murder defense lawyers will advocate for reasonable bail conditions when possible, though murder charges often result in remand without bail. We explain your rights and the charges you face during this critical early hearing.

How does New York’s discovery process work in homicide cases?

New York’s reformed discovery laws require prosecutors to share evidence much earlier than in the past. Our homicide defense lawyers aggressively pursue all discoverable materials, including police reports, witness statements, forensic testing, surveillance footage, and other evidence crucial to building your defense.

If I was at the scene but didn’t commit the murder, can I still be charged?

Yes, under accomplice liability or felony murder doctrines, you could face murder charges even if you didn’t directly cause death. Our criminal defense lawyer team examines the evidence of your actual involvement and works to challenge these serious charges when you were not the principal actor.

Is it possible to get released on bail while fighting murder charges?

While bail is challenging in murder cases, it is sometimes possible depending on factors like criminal history, community ties, flight risk assessment, and case strength. Our murder defense lawyers present compelling arguments for pretrial release when circumstances warrant.

What if the homicide occurred during an act of self-defense?

Self-defense is a complete defense to murder charges when properly established. Our criminal defense lawyer team thoroughly investigates all evidence supporting legitimate self-defense claims, including prior threats, the deceased’s violent history, and circumstances demonstrating reasonable fear of imminent harm.

How do you handle cases involving mental health issues?

Our homicide defense lawyers work with qualified mental health professionals to evaluate whether conditions like extreme emotional disturbance, diminished capacity, or insanity may support viable defenses or mitigation strategies in your case.

Will my immigration status be affected by murder charges?

Yes, homicide charges can have severe immigration consequences, including deportation. Our criminal defense lawyer team considers potential immigration impacts when developing defense strategies for non-citizen clients facing murder charges.

What if new evidence emerges after conviction?

Our murder defense lawyers continue fighting even after conviction. New evidence can support motions to vacate judgments, appeals, or post-conviction relief. We remain vigilant for opportunities to challenge wrongful convictions based on newly discovered evidence or scientific advancements.

Jails and Prisons Our Murder Defense Lawyers Work With in NYC

As homicide defense lawyers serving New York City, Konta Georges & Buza P.C. regularly visits clients at detention facilities throughout the five boroughs and surrounding areas.

• Rikers Island Complex: The largest jail complex in New York City houses most pretrial detainees facing murder charges. Our criminal defense lawyer team conducts regular client visits to all facilities within this complex, including the Anna M. Kross Center, Robert N. Davoren Complex, and George R. Vierno Center.
• Brooklyn Detention Complex: This facility in downtown Brooklyn holds defendants awaiting trial in Kings County cases. Our homicide defense lawyers maintain strong working relationships with staff to facilitate prompt client meetings and case preparation.
• Manhattan Detention Complex (The Tombs): Located near the criminal courts in lower Manhattan, this facility typically houses those facing serious charges in New York County. Our criminal defense lawyer team provides representation to clients detained here throughout their pretrial proceedings.
• Vernon C. Bain Center (The Boat): This unique floating jail facility in the Bronx houses many pretrial detainees. Our homicide defense lawyers regularly travel to this location to conduct thorough client consultations and case reviews.
• Metropolitan Correctional Center: This federal detention facility in Manhattan sometimes houses defendants in complex homicide cases with federal implications. Our criminal defense lawyer team has experience navigating the additional security protocols required for client visits here.
• Attica Correctional Facility: For clients serving sentences following conviction, our homicide defense lawyers travel to this maximum-security state prison to discuss appeal options and post-conviction strategies.
• Sing Sing Correctional Facility: Located in Ossining, this maximum-security prison houses many convicted on serious charges from NYC. Our criminal defense lawyer team maintains communication with clients transferred here to pursue appellate and post-conviction remedies.
• Green Haven Correctional Facility: This maximum-security prison in Dutchess County holds many inmates convicted of homicide. Our homicide defense lawyers work with clients here on appeals and other post-conviction matters.