Virginia Beach Murder Attorney
Let Our Virginia Beach Criminal Attorney Protect Your Rights and Freedom
Murder, also known as homicide, is considered the most serious crime of all. Law enforcement and the prosecution will do whatever it takes to put you behind bars for the rest of your life or worst. The negative attention you’ll receive by the media and public can be quite a burden to overcome. All hope may seem lost even before the trial begins.
If you have been accused of murder in Virginia, our Virginia Beach criminal attorney can provide you with the relentless and personalized defense strategy you need. We are dedicated to keep you well-informed throughout every step of the process.
For any answers to your questions or concerns, reach out to our firm by calling (757) 267-4949 today.
Types of Murder
In Virginia, there are three classes of murder: capital murder, first-degree murder, and second-degree murder. As the most serious crime you can commit, capital murder is defined as the deliberate, willful, and premeditated killing of another person. This type of murder is punishable by the death penalty. However, if the defendant is under 18 years of age, then they could be sentenced to life imprisonment and pay a fine of up to $100,000.
In order for a murder to be considered as “capital,” any one of these specific circumstances must be met:
- Murder of a law enforcement officer or firefighter on duty
- Murder for hire
- Murder of a child younger than 14 years old (if the defendant is 21 years or older)
- Multiple murders
- Murder derived from a drug distribution crime
- Murder by a prisoner
- Murder a woman with the knowledge that she’s pregnant
- Murder a witness to prevent him or her from testifying in a criminal case
- Murder a judge to prevent him or her from performing their duty
First-degree murder is similar to capital murder, in regards to the willful, deliberate and premeditated motive behind the crime. It is considered a Class 2 felony, punishable by a prison sentence between 20 years and life, including a fine of up to $100,000.
In order for a murder to be considered as “first-degree,” any one of these specific circumstances must be met:
- Murder another person by poison
- Murder another person lying in wait
- Murder another person by imprisoning him or her
- Murder another person by starving them
- Murder another person during the commission or attempt of a particular felony
- Such as arson, rape, forcible sodomy, inanimate or animate object sexual penetration, burglary, robbery, or abduction
The least serious murder charge is second-degree murder, since it typically occurs during the heat of a moment without premeditation or planning, but with malice aforethought. A conviction for second-degree murder is punishable by a prison sentence between five to 40 years and a fine of up to $100,000.
25 Years of Legal Experience on Your Side
At the Law Offices of Daniel J. Miller, we understand how hopeless it may seem to be charged with a violent crime of this magnitude. However, due to our combined legal experience of over 25 years, our Virginia Beach criminal attorney possesses an in-depth knowledge of the state laws and court processes to help you navigate through the complexities of your case. Do not hesitate to get the legal assistance you need to get your charges reduced, or even have your case entirely thrown out.
Contact us to schedule your consultation today. Call (757) 267-4949!
Read Our Client Testimonials
At The Law Offices of Daniel J. Miller, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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I hired Mr. Miller initially for a bond hearing . I decided to retain his services for the case itself . I was facing two felony charges as well as a failure to appear charge . While there were witnesses that were able to identify me, I walked out of Virginia Beach Courthouse with only a misdemeanor thanks to Mr. Miller's representation . I work in the healthcare profession and expressed to Mr. Miller the importance of avoiding a felony charge and he made it happen. I am forever grateful and will highly recommend him . Mr. Miller will always represent myself as well as family members if need be in the future . Again thank you Mr. Miller for using your knowledge to keep me from being a convicted felon and also saving my career.- C. Dickens
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Mr Miller you're the man I appreciate advising me what to get for my case and getting my reckless driving ticket reduced. Would highly recommend you to anyone if asked for help.- J. J
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Mr. Miller and his team are a class act and helped me get out of situation I should of never been in. Mr. Miller is down to earth and listens to what you have to say. His team was very helpful with emailing me all the information I needed and keeping me up- M. Wilder
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I had to use their services three times in the past 20 years. I was completely satisfied with each time I was represented. They were professional and their communication with me was nothing less then stella. Their results was worth the price.- K. Young
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Mr. Miller is an OG he's definitely earned my respect, if I ever need an attorney again he'll be my first call.- A. Miller
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Great service excellent information, affordable price and kind staff who do their best to help you understand your situation- M. Bags
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Thank you so much for representing my son. I appreciate how calm and reassuring Mr. Miller was. Although I was nervous about everything he always remained calm, and gave me the facts as he seen them. In a situation like that I feel that is the type of Lawyer you want in your defense. Thanks so much again- C. Harris
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Very professional representation, Mr. Blair was very knowledgeable, prepared and friendly. On the off chance I ever need representation again, I will call this office.- Bob A
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it’s a crazy experience having a lawyer but he looked out and made my case easier W firm for making sure i knew everything and W lawyer for making sure i took care of what made the case go smoothly- A. Britton
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Thank you so much Mr Miller, I appreciate everything you done for me. Your staff is excellent and the communication your staff provide is extraordinary. You were always available when needed. Wish y’all nothing but SUCCESS!- B. Gardner
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