Milwaukee Homicide Attorneys
43 Years of Experience Defending Homicide Charges
Homicide is one of the most serious criminal convictions in Wisconsin. Homicide encompasses murder offenses and manslaughter crimes, both of which involve the killing of another person. It can be particularly difficult to defend against an accusation of homicide, but an experienced lawyer can build a strong case for lesser charges or even a dismissal of the case. At Ritter Law Office, LLP, we have 43 years of combined experience defending charged individuals. We take a more calm and humane approach to a field of law that is often cold and aggressive. Let us put our knowledge on your side and develop a personalized defense strategy that meets your needs and goals.
Call us today at (414) 441-4321 to schedule a free consultation with Ritter & Kramer Law to get started. Serving residents in Waukesha County.
Understanding First- and Second-Degree Murder in Wisconsin
Wisconsin law defines first-degree murder as causing the death of another person or an unborn child with the intent to kill that person. Second-degree murder is reckless homicide and is often referred to as first-degree reckless homicide. In general, second-degree murder involves:
- Recklessly causing the death of another person or an unborn baby due to an utter disregard for human life (that is, not with the intent to kill that specific person but to act in a dangerous way that could cause harm).
- Causing the death of another by making, selling, or administering drugs to a person who dies as a result of taking it.
First-degree murder is a Class A felony punishable by life imprisonment, and second-degree murder is a Class B felony punishable by up to 60 years in prison. Second-degree murder involving drugs is a Class C felony punishable by up to 40 years in prison and up to $100,000 in fines.
Manslaughter: Understanding Second-Degree Intentional Homicide
Manslaughter is another category of homicide at a slightly lower level than murder. Manslaughter includes two types – voluntary and involuntary. Generally, the main difference between murder and voluntary manslaughter is that murder involves an intentional, premeditated plan to kill, while manslaughter is a killing that occurs in the heat of the moment (without prior planning).
Involuntary manslaughter occurs when a person accidentally kills another person due to their own criminal negligence or recklessness. In such a case, the offender did not intend to kill anyone, but their reckless actions caused another person’s death.
Voluntary manslaughter, referred to as second-degree intentional homicide, is a Class B felony punishable by up to 60 years in prison. Involuntary manslaughter is punishable based on the nature of the offense, and the penalty level ranges from a Class C felony (homicide by intoxicated operation of a vehicle) to a Class G felony (negligent handling of weapons or explosives).
With the right lawyer, individuals facing murder charges can often argue down their case to the manslaughter level. However, this will still depend on the severity of the incident and other factors like your criminal history.
How Our Milwaukee Homicide Lawyers Can Assist You
Being charged with a homicide offense in Wisconsin is a serious matter that requires expert legal representation. Our team of experienced Milwaukee homicide attorneys is well-versed in the laws and regulations surrounding first- and second-degree murder, as well as manslaughter (second-degree intentional homicide).
When facing homicide charges, it's crucial to understand the potential consequences and legal defenses available to you. Our attorneys will work diligently to build a strong defense strategy tailored to your specific case, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive a fair trial.
Whether you are facing murder or manslaughter charges, it's important to have knowledgeable legal counsel by your side. Contact Ritter Law Office, LLP today to schedule a consultation with our dedicated team of homicide defense attorneys.
At Ritter Law Office, LLP, we will put our collective 43 years of experience to work as we craft a personalized defense strategy for your homicide case. The criminal justice system can feel daunting and unfriendly, but we will provide a calming and caring approach to your situation. Accidents happen; humans make mistakes. We will sit down with you to learn about your life and story to cultivate a more personal and humane case. We genuinely care about you and your future, and we will do our best to advocate for mitigated charges.
Contact us at Ritter Law Office, LLP at (414) 441-4321 to discuss your defense options in a free initial consultation.
YOU ARE MORE THAN A CASE,
YOU ARE A PERSON
SEE HOW WE'VE HELPED OTHER PEOPLE IN YOUR SHOES
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“The perfect duo to win your case.”
Allison is a very aggressive trail lawyer. Very dedicated to her clients' cases. She understands the ropes in the courtroom. With her partner Amanda, who is similar to Allison, it gives you the perfect duo to win your case. All odds were against me and she and Amanda got me found not guilty in a court trial.- T.R. -
“I honestly could go on for pages about how thankful I am. You did amazing!”
“You never waivered…and you made me feel so good about the situation. I and my family cannot tell you how great it was to have somebody actually stand up and fight for me.”- C.K. -
“Our family will forever remember you.”
“Thank you for all the hard work and goodwill you used to find justice for C. Your efforts and kindness were greatly appreciated. Our family will forever remember you. Thank you again and God bless, Ritter Law Office, LLP!”- C.G. -
“We couldn't have done it without you!”
Thank you for everything in HY's case. We couldn't have done it without you!- H.Y. -
“You are like a ray of sunshine.”
Thank you again, Allison, for all you [have done] for me. You are like a ray of sunshine. I will never forget you. Thank you so much.- J.G. -
“A refreshing experience with honest advice.”
“After speaking with four firms with disappointing results, I spoke with Ritter Law Office. They took the time to listen, offered honest opinions, and provided strategic tactics. Thankfully, they helped put a miserable, humiliating experience behind me!”- T.Z. -
“You were a very honest person.”
Ms. Ritter, I would like to thank you for all the hard work you did for my son as well as my family. You were a very honest person and fair as well... You are excellent!- L.G. -
“Thank you for believing in me.”
“I want to sincerely thank Ritter Law Office, LLP for believing in me even though the circumstances suggested I was guilty. It meant so much that they didn't make assumptions or jump to conclusions before hearing me out. Thank you!”- T.W.
