Homicide Attorney in Scranton

Facing Homicide Charges in Scranton? Call Us Immediately

At Rogan Law, we understand the immense emotional and legal challenges that come with facing homicide charges in Scranton, PA. Our team, led by Attorney Patrick Rogan, is committed to defending your rights and ensuring that you receive a fair trial. 

With over 30 years of experience in criminal defense, we offer a compassionate and client-centered approach, tailored to each individual's unique circumstances. Facing such serious charges can affect not just your future but also your day-to-day life. We aim to relieve the stress by providing knowledgeable guidance every step of the way, ensuring you have a robust defense.

A skilled homicide attorney in Scranton is available 24/7 to protect your rights. We offer free consultations and aggressive defense strategies. Call (570) 906-8532 now or contact us online — your future depends on it.

Understanding Murder Laws in Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, criminal homicide is broadly defined as the unlawful killing of a human being (18 Pa.C.S.A. § 2501). This includes murder, voluntary manslaughter, and involuntary manslaughter. Murder is divided into three degrees, each distinguished by the accused's mental state, the circumstances surrounding the death, and any aggravating factors. The specific charge determines the range of penalties and the precise elements the prosecution must prove. A knowledgeable murder lawyer in Scranton will quickly analyze the precise charge you face.

Key Mental States in Pennsylvania Homicide Cases (18 Pa.C.S.A. § 302):

Understanding the mental state attributed to the accused is fundamental in Pennsylvania homicide cases:

• Purposely (Specific Intent to Kill): The highest level of culpability, where the conscious objective is to cause death. This is typically required for First-Degree Murder.
• Knowingly: Awareness that your conduct is practically certain to cause death. This mental state is sufficient for Third-Degree Murder in certain circumstances.
• Recklessly: Consciously disregarding a substantial and unjustifiable risk that your conduct will cause death. This disregard must involve a gross deviation from the standard of conduct that a reasonable person would observe. This is a basis for some types of murder and involuntary manslaughter.
• Malice: A legal term of art in homicide law that can be express (specific intent to kill) or implied (extreme indifference to the value of human life, or acting with a wickedness of disposition, hardness of heart, cruelty, recklessness of consequences, and a mind regardless of social duty). Malice is a necessary element of all degrees of murder.

Penalties and Collateral Consequences of Murder Convictions in Pennsylvania

A conviction for any degree of murder in Pennsylvania carries the most severe penalties imaginable, extending far beyond incarceration and impacting nearly every aspect of your life.

• First-Degree Murder: Life imprisonment without eligibility for probation or parole.
• Second-Degree Murder: Life imprisonment.
• Third-Degree Murder (First-Degree Felony): Up to 40 years in state prison. Fines up to $50,000.
• Mandatory Minimum Sentences: Pennsylvania imposes strict mandatory minimum prison sentences for murder and certain aggravating factors, severely limiting a judge's discretion.
• Parole Eligibility: For First- and Second-Degree Murder, there is no parole eligibility under current Pennsylvania law for offenses committed after 1980. For Third-Degree Murder, parole is possible after serving the minimum sentence.

A felony murder conviction leads to a permanent criminal record, eliminating future employment, housing, and educational prospects, and resulting in the permanent revocation of professional licenses. It also brings the permanent loss of voting and firearms rights, profound reputational damage, and often triggers civil lawsuits from victims' families. For non-U.S. citizens, it leads to severe immigration consequences, including deportation, with rare cases even resulting in civil commitment after prison.

The Homicide Defense Process in Scranton

Understanding the legal process is crucial when facing homicide charges. Here’s what you can expect with Rogan Law:

• Legal Consultation: Begin with a free consultation where we assess your case and outline possible defenses. This initial phase is critical as it sets the foundation for how we move forward. We take time to listen to your side of the story, crucial details, and any potential alibis or witnesses.
• Investigation: Our team conducts a thorough investigation to gather evidence and build a strong defense. Investigative efforts may include expert consultations, reviewing surveillance footage, and scrutinizing forensic evidence. Our focus is on crafting a narrative that counters the prosecution's claims effectively.
• Strategic Planning: We develop a comprehensive defense plan tailored to your case, considering all aspects of Scranton’s legal system. Reliability in strategic planning goes beyond just knowing the law—it's about integrating all facets of your case for optimal outcomes.
• Court Representation: Our skilled attorneys represent you at all court appearances, passionately advocating for your rights. With our vast experience, we are well-prepared to handle everything from pre-trial hearings to cross-examinations with poise and precision, ensuring your best interests are always at the forefront.

Proven Track Record & Client Commitment

Our firm’s track record speaks for itself, having successfully defended countless clients against serious charges. At Rogan Law, we prioritize transparency and communication, ensuring that you are informed and involved in every step of your legal journey. A transparent defense strategy can only benefit you, and we keep that at the forefront of our practice. From explaining complex legal jargon to outlining potential outcomes, our communication remains clear and open.

Many clients face challenges when trying to understand the implications of their charges or the possible defenses available. That's why we take extra care to walk you through every scenario, focusing on the strengths of your case while addressing any potential weaknesses. Our consistent dedication to client care ensures that you're never left in the dark about where your case stands or the tactics we're employing. By integrating you into the defense strategy, we aim to empower you during a typically overwhelming time.

Our Comprehensive Legal Services

We provide robust legal representation to individuals accused of homicide, leveraging our extensive knowledge of Scranton’s legal landscape. We focus on:

• Personalized Defense Strategies: We tailor our defense strategies to meet the specific needs and circumstances of each client. Knowing what works in a Scranton courtroom can make all the difference, and our team is adept at crafting arguments that resonate with local judges and juries.
• 24/7 Availability: Legal challenges can arise at any time, and our team is ready to assist you whenever you need us. Unexpected issues or questions regarding your case can crop up outside regular business hours, which is why our lines of communication remain open for our clients round-the-clock.
• Free Initial Consultation: We offer a free initial consultation to discuss your case without any financial pressure. This first meeting not only helps us understand your circumstances better but also allows you to assess our approach and comfort level with our legal strategy.

Contact Us for a Free Consultation

Our dedicated team is committed to providing you with effective legal solutions tailored to your needs. With us, you gain a partner in your defense, focused on safeguarding your future and alleviating the burdens of legal complexities. Reach out today, and take the first step towards a solid defense and peace of mind. Our supportive team aims to make every interaction constructive and straightforward, ensuring you feel assured about all stages of the legal journey.

Facing homicide charges is a daunting experience, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Contact Rogan Law at (570) 906-8532 for a free consultation. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I hire Rogan Law for my defense?

We bring decades of experience in homicide defense, local court insight, and personalized legal care. Our team is available around the clock and committed to guiding you through every step of your case. From the first call to the final resolution, we focus on protecting your rights and pursuing the best possible result.

Can homicide charges ever be reduced or dismissed?

Yes. In some cases, homicide charges can be reduced to lesser offenses such as manslaughter or even dismissed altogether if the evidence is insufficient or constitutional rights were violated. Our team will examine every detail of your arrest, the investigation, and how the evidence was gathered to uncover all available defense angles.

Is self-defense a valid legal argument in Pennsylvania?

Yes. Self-defense is recognized under Pennsylvania law if you can show that you used force to protect yourself from serious harm or death. The success of this defense depends on the facts of your case, and our attorneys know how to present self-defense effectively in court when justified.

Will I have to stay in jail until my trial?

Not always. Depending on the circumstances of the case, we may be able to argue for bail or pretrial release. Factors like prior criminal history, ties to the community, and the nature of the charges all influence the court’s decision. We work hard to secure your release whenever possible so you can remain with your family while preparing your defense.

How long do homicide cases usually take?

Homicide cases are complex and can take many months—or even longer—to resolve. The timeline depends on how the case progresses, whether it goes to trial, and the court’s schedule. From the outset, we’ll give you a clear understanding of what to expect and keep you informed at every stage.

Can talking to the police help my case?

No. Talking to the police without a lawyer can seriously harm your case. Even innocent statements can be misunderstood or twisted into evidence. Always speak to a defense attorney before answering any questions, and exercise your right to remain silent until you have legal representation.

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