Murder Trials

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Murder Trials

Criminal Defense Attorney Assisting in Murder Trials
Across Sampson County, Cumberland County, Hoke County, Clinton, NC & Beyond

All Murder Charges Need to be Taken Seriously

If you or a loved one has been charged with homicide, you need to call a criminal defense attorney immediately.


In North Carolina homicide includes manslaughter, second degree murder, and first-degree murder. Any form of homicide can result in decades behind bars, with first degree murder resulting in a life term or the death penalty. You have no time to waste. You need immediate help from a North Carolina  homicide trial lawyer.

BP Condlin Attorney At Law has experience in many areas of law, serving as not only a criminal defense attorney, but also a DWI attorney, domestic violence attorney, assault and battery attorney, and even a personal injury lawyer. His specialty, however, is murder charges. In the last five years, Attorney Condlin has resolved twenty-two cases of first-degree murder. There should be no doubt about who you want representing you in a homicide trial.


Our practice’s location allows us to serve clients in Clinton, NC and all throughout Cumberland County, Hope County, Sampson County, and beyond. When you find yourself facing murder charges, give yourself the best shot at avoiding the state’s harsh penalties. Contact the office of BP Condlin Attorney At Law today to set up a free initial consultation.

Why?

You might be asking, “Why do I need a Homicide Trial Lawyer, isn’t any criminal defense attorney the same?”


The answer is overwhelmingly NO!! From the minute the homicide trial attorney gets involved he begins planning for trial strategies. A good homicide trial attorney plans for the worst and hopes for the best! Secondly as soon as the Prosecutor discovers who the attorney is, they know if the attorney has a reputation for trials or plea bargains. Some attorneys have never handled a homicide case and represent clients totally unprepared. Other attorneys never have any intention of trying ANY cases. They get paid and plead the case.


How do you know the difference between a common criminal defense attorney and a Homicide Trial Attorney? Just ask two simple questions:

  1. How many cases like this have you handled before?
  2. What defenses if any are applicable to my case?


If the answer to either causes you concern RUN!!!!

I Know How to Represent a Client in a Homicide Case

I have the experience necessary to defend clients in state court, and we I never stop working for you, even when, to an outsider, it seems that all options have been exhausted. I am a former Assistant District Attorney and have been practicing for over 22 years. I have been on the States maintained Capital Defenders list for over 10 years. I have handled some of the worst cases in Cumberland County in the recent years. From knives, guns, bats, strangulations, hatchets, bricks, and paint scrapers I have seen it all. I have had cases with incredibly young victims and incredibly old victims. I have had juvenile clients and older clients with dementia. As a former Assistant District Attorney, I have an advantage in that I can forecast what the opposition will likely do and take measures to counter their moves. Knowing the State’s strengths and weaknesses is critical in preparing a defense.


TYPES OF HOMICIDE IN NORTH CAROLINA


Manslaughter is the unintentional killing of another. There are two types of manslaughter charges in North Carolina: voluntary (Class D felony) and involuntary (Class F felony). Voluntary manslaughter is punished with a minimum of 51 months in prison, while involuntary manslaughter (such as a DUI manslaughter) carries a mandatory 13-month prison term, under statute 14-18.


Second Degree Murder is the killing of another person where no premeditation is involved. Often called a “crime of passion,” an example of second-degree murder would be two road raged motorists getting out of their vehicles and arguing, with one shooting the other dead. Second degree murder comes in two forms: A Class B1 felony and a Class B2 felony, depending on the circumstances of the offense committed. These classifications carry a 16-year mandatory minimum sentence and a 125-month (10.4 year) mandatory minimum sentence, respectively.


First Degree Murder is any premeditated killing of another person. Premeditation means that the killing was planned in advance. Additionally, any death that results from the following types of violent felonies (commonly called the felony-murder rule) is classified as first-degree murder under North Carolina statute 14-17:


  • Arson.
  • Rape
  • Other sex offenses
  • Robbery
  • Kidnapping
  • Burglary; or
  • Any other felony that was committed or attempted with a deadly weapon present.

What to Do If You’re Facing Murder Charges

If you have found yourself facing murder charges, you are already feeling immense stress. It is a serious situation with severe consequences; you’ll need to take immediate and careful action. Here are some quick and practical tips if you find yourself dealing with this situation:



  • Remain Silent: If you have been accused of murder, the first and most crucial step is to remain silent and immediately request legal representation. Never discuss the details of the case with anyone, including law enforcement, until you have consulted with an experienced criminal defense attorney who specializes in murder cases. Anything you say can and will be used against you in court, so it’s essential to exercise your right to remain silent.
  • Retain Legal Representation: You have the right to an attorney to advocate on your behalf. If you are not able to afford an attorney, one will be appointed for you. Your lawyer will work with you to learn more about your case and develop a robust defense strategy. 
  • Provide Information to Your Attorney: Your attorney’s job is to help you understand the situation at hand and build a solid defense on your behalf. To help with this process, provide as much information as you can. Work with your lawyer to gather evidence and identify any potential witnesses that could testify in your favor. It’s important to be completely honest with your attorney about all the details of the case, as this information can be pivotal to your defense.
  • Follow Professional Advice: Following all legal advice and court orders closely is essential to remain in good legal standing. Plan to attend all required court appearances and keep a low profile, avoiding any behavior that could negatively impact your case. Be aware that your attorney might want to discuss the possibility of a plea bargain, depending on the strength of the evidence against you.


Throughout this challenging time, having a skilled and experienced attorney who specializes in murder charges is essential to navigate the complexities of the legal system and work towards the best possible outcome. At BP Condlin Attorney at Law, you’ll get the thoughtful representation you deserve. Contact us today for assistance in Clinton, Sampson County, Cumberland County, Hoke County, and the surrounding areas. 

First degree murder carries the highest criminal penalty of any offense in North Carolina, with life in prison without parole being the least harsh punishment, and the death penalty being the ultimate penalty. Only minors convicted of first-degree murder are eligible to avoid life in prison or the death penalty.

Call A Criminal Defense Attorney Today! Zealous Representation Is Affordable! Schedule A Free Consultation Today!!!

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