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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- T. Neilan
Excellent Attorney!
Daniel J. Miller is an absolute pleasure to speak with and conduct business with! Very intelligent, knowledgeable of the law, friendly, and professional! I was very pleased with the outcome of my case and will be hiring him for my future legal needs.
I highly recommend Daniel J. Miller for your legal issues and needs.Don't let cost be a detractant, you get what you pay for. And Premium Representation comes with a premium cost, but is well worth it!
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Mr. James Weaver and his team are true professionals. From the start, he was honest and straightforward. He always stayed positive with me and kept me calm when I thought everything was going horrible. Mr. Weaver got me the best outcome possible in my situation. I highly recommend him to anyone looking for a great lawyer.- S. Bohrer
I hired Mr. Weaver for my family law issues. -
I was very nervous when I had to go to court over a traffic accident I was recently involved in. Dan put me at ease almost immediately with his knowledge and tenacity. By the time Dan was finished questioning the other people involved in the accident I did not even have to testify (which was the major source of my nervousness). My innocence was clear to everyone in the room, thanks to Dan. Would definitely use him again and recommend him to others. Aside from his performance during the hearing he was very easy to contact and always kept appointments with me. He also answered all of my questions patiently and with understanding.- Client
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- M. War
Unfortunately I have had to use The most professional courteous reliable and hard working Law Offices of Daniel J Miller. Upon the arrival at the start of my case to the departure at the end of my case, Mr. Miller and Mr. Weaver from the start of consultation knew what I was up against and delivered more than I expected from any lawyer in Virginia to do for me. I had an on going custody battle and now have my son full time and out of harm's way. I am extremely pleased with the services I was provided. I HIGHLY recommend this firm if you want the best possible outcome for your case.
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