The Defense Your Life Depends on
Homicide
What is homicide under Oklahoma law?
Homicide is the unlawful killing of another person and includes multiple classifications under Oklahoma Statutes Title 21 §§ 691–701.9. These charges are some of the most serious in the criminal justice system and can result in life imprisonment or the death penalty. You absolutely need the most skilled attorney you can find, so trust Stone Legal Group.
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Types of homicide charges in Oklahoma
First-Degree Murder
Unlawfully and with malice aforethought causes the death of another human being.
First-Degree Felony Murder
Taking the life of a human being during, or if the death of a human being results from, the commission or attempted commission of a serious felony.
Second-Degree Murder
Unintentional killing due to an act imminently dangerous to others and evincing a depraved mind.
Second-Degree Felony Murder
Taking the life of a human being during, or if the death of a human being results from, the commission or attempted commission of any felony.
First-Degree Manslaughter
Perpetrated without a design to effect death, and in a heat of passion, but in a cruel and unusual manner.
Second-Degree Manslaughter
Every killing of one human being by the act, procurement or culpable negligence of another.
Legal Representation Matters.
A homicide conviction can lead to decades in prison or even capital punishment. Prosecutors will pursue these charges aggressively, often employing complex forensic evidence and witness testimony. To stand any chance, you need a highly experienced defense attorney to challenge evidence, provide expert witnesses, and build a life-saving defense. You need Stone Legal Group.
Key Homicide Penalties
First-Degree Murder
Prison Time: Life, life without parole, or death penalty
Second-Degree Murder
Prison Time: Ten years to life
First-Degree Manslaughter
Prison: Four years to life
Second-Degree Manslaughter
Jail Time: Two to four years
Fines: Up to $1,000
Aggravating Factors
Certain factors or circumstances surrounding a homicide can result in harsher penalties:
- Killing of a law enforcement officer
- Use of firearms or commission during a violent felony
- Prior violent convictions
Stone Legal Group’s Homicide Defense Strategies
Homicide at any level is a very serious charge. Stone Legal Group defends any homicide charge aggressively, tailoring a defense strategy to your specific case. Some of our defense tactics may include:
Justifiable Homicide / Self-Defense
Was the defendant protecting themselves or others from serious harm? Stand Your Ground or Castle Doctrine may apply.
Challenging Forensic Evidence
- Are lab results accurate?
- Was evidence properly preserved?
- Is there contamination or mishandling of crime scene data?
Lack of Intent / Mental State
- Was the killing accidental or lacking premeditation?
- Are there psychiatric defenses (insanity, diminished capacity)?
Alibi or Mistaken Identity
- Was the defendant misidentified?
- Are there witnesses or evidence showing the defendant wasn’t at the scene?
Rock-Solid Defense
Stone Legal Group is dedicated to providing you with the most thorough, heavily researched and exhaustive homicide defense strategies in Oklahoma. We work closely with forensic experts, investigators and medical professionals to uncover every angle of your case, and fight tirelessly for your rights and your freedom. These are just a few of the undeniable differences that set us apart from other attorneys and firms:
Tailored Strategy
One size never fits all. We custom-build defense strategies for your specific case & circumstances.
Concierge Service
Immediate access to your team and your lawyer when you need it.
Proven Results
Our track record of successful outcomes speaks for itself.
Local Expertise
Experience-based knowledge of both courts & prosecutors in Oklahoma City metro and surrounding counties.
More Tools
Plea bargaining isn’t our only option. Our toolbox includes litigation, motion practice, reducing penalties, ruthless negotiation, reputation protection & more.
Whatever it Takes
Private investigation, independent expert witnesses, on-the-ground evidence gathering, intensive legal research & more.
Understanding Costs
Hiring a skilled attorney is an investment in your future, your freedom and your family. For criminal cases, Stone Legal Group charges a transparent, flat fee to cover the cost of your defense.
Frequently Asked Questions About Homicide
What’s the difference between murder and manslaughter?
Murder involves the intentional or extremely reckless killing of another person, often with premeditation or during the commission of another felony. Manslaughter usually involves a killing without prior intent, often due to provocation or negligence.
Can I be charged with murder even if I didn’t pull the trigger?
Yes. Under Oklahoma’s felony murder rule, you can be charged with murder if someone dies during the commission of a felony you were involved in, even if you didn’t directly cause the death. You can also be charged under theories of conspiracy, accomplice after the fact, or by being an accessory to the killing.
Can a homicide charge be reduced to a lesser offense?
Yes. Stone Legal Group will custom design a defense to your case in hopes of getting a murder charge dismissed, or reduced to a lesser offense of manslaughter or negligent homicide. This is especially likely if intent, provocation or self-defense factors can be demonstrated.
What is considered self-defense under Oklahoma law?
Self-defense in Oklahoma is justified when a person reasonably believes they are in imminent danger of death or serious bodily harm.
What is considered defense of others?
Similarly to self-defense, in Oklahoma, use of lethal force is justified when one believes another person is in imminent danger of death or serious bodily injury.
What if I kill someone while in my home?
Under Oklahoma’s “Stand Your Ground” law, you have no duty to retreat from home invaders and can use lethal force to protect yourself and your family.
Is the death penalty still used in Oklahoma?
Yes. Oklahoma is one of the states that still enforces “capital punishment” or the death penalty. It is reserved for the most serious cases of first-degree murder with aggravating circumstances.
Areas We Serve
Stone Legal Group has extensive experience representing clients across Oklahoma, and we will represent a defendant of homicide in any county in Oklahoma.
Oklahoma City
Edmond
Norman
Yukon
Mustang
The Village
Moore
Midwest City
Nichols Hills
Newcastle
Piedmont
El Reno
Guthrie
+ surrounding communities
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