Practice Areas ➤ Murder

In Illinois, there are two types of murder: First-degree and second-degree. First-degree murder is committed when one person kills another person without justification with the intent to do so, or by committing an act with intent to do great bodily harm, or knowing that such an act will or is likely to result in the other person’s death. Murder in the first degree also includes causing a person’s death while in the act of committing a forcible felony aside from second-degree murder.

In Illinois, you can also be charged with attempt murder if a person takes a substantial step toward committing the crime of first-degree murder, even if nobody is killed or even injured.

Murder in the Second Degree

Murder in the second degree involves exactly the same factors above, but also includes one or both of two mitigating factors. The first is that, at the time of the killing, the offender was acting out of intense and sudden passion caused by the provocation of the victim or someone else who they intended to kill, but unintentionally caused the victim’s death, instead. The second mitigating factor is that, at the time of killing, the offender had an unreasonable belief that their actions were a justifiable use of force.

These are complicated and challenging charges to face, and when you are facing prosecution for either, it’s important to have an aggressive, experienced and knowledgeable defense attorney available to help protect your rights and defend your case.

Any murder or attempt murder arrest is a serious charge with serious consequences, and the longer you wait to hire a lawyer, the more difficult it will be to protect your rights and fight your case. Consult with Joshua Kutnick as soon as possible to begin defending yourself against these serious accusations. We have represented numerous people accused of murder or attempt murder over the years, often with very successful results. Contact us today at 312-441-0211 and schedule a consultation. Let us protect you and your rights.