Degrees of Murder.

Just as there are degrees of burns there are degrees of murder - a great deal more harsh, of course.  When it comes to being accused of this ultimate crime whichever one you are being tried for will determine your entire future.  Each type has its own set of circumstances and penalties with which you need to be familiar.

1.  Third degree murder.  This is considered a second degree felony in legal terms.  The punishment may include up to 15 years in prison.  It is known as murder without premeditation.

2.  Second degree murder.  This may be a murky area which should be properly explained by your attorney.  Just know that it can be punishable by up to 30 years in state prison.

3.  First degree murder.  This is the type with which most of us are familiar.  It is a capital offense in which you could be put to death or spend your life in prison if found guilty.

As you can plainly see the degrees within which you may be charged will affect how you should be defended.  You must not trust that defense to just anyone.  Call on the services of Kidder and Bennett.  They are St. Petersburg’s murder defense attorneys serving all of Pinellas County with a combined 50 years of experience.  Call for a free consultation today at (727) 821-8000.