Murder Defense in Connecticut
Connecticut Murder Defense Attorneys
A murder charge is the most serious accusation a person can face, carrying decades in prison or life without the possibility of release. Every stage of the case, from the initial investigation through trial, requires an aggressive and experienced defense. The Law Offices of Pat Brown has represented clients facing the most serious criminal charges in Connecticut, including homicide cases in state and federal court.
Degrees of Murder in Connecticut
Under Conn. Gen. Stat. § 53a-54a, murder is generally a Class A felony punishable by 25 years to life in prison. Felony murder, under § 53a-54c, can apply even without intent to kill if a death occurs during certain other felonies. "Murder with special circumstances" under § 53a-54b, Connecticut's replacement for the death penalty since it was abolished in 2012, can potentially result in life imprisonment without the possibility of release.
There Is No Statute of Limitations for Murder
Unlike most crimes in Connecticut, murder generally can be prosecuted at any time, regardless of how many years have passed since the alleged offense. This means evidence, witness memories, and available defenses can be affected by significant delays between the alleged crime and prosecution, making a thorough and experienced defense especially important in these cases.
Possible Defenses to a Murder Charge
A murder charge is not the same as a conviction, and Connecticut law recognizes several potential defenses. These can include self-defense, mistaken identity, insufficient evidence connecting you to the crime, and extreme emotional disturbance, which can potentially reduce a murder charge to manslaughter if it applies. An experienced homicide defense attorney can evaluate which approach may fit the specific facts of your case.
Why Choose the Law Offices of Pat Brown
Since 2008, the Law Offices of Pat Brown has represented Connecticut clients facing the most serious criminal charges, with attorneys who have collectively tried more than 250 jury trials in state and federal court. With offices in Avon, New Britain, and New London, CT, plus Rye Brook, NY, we're positioned to represent clients across the region. We offer a free case evaluation so you can understand your options before deciding how to move forward.
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Your Murder Defense Defense
For more information or to talk to an attorney, call us at (860) 321-7722 or click the button to complete the form.
Frequently Asked Questions About Murder Defense
What is the minimum sentence for murder in Connecticut?
Murder under Connecticut law generally carries a sentence of 25 years to life in prison, with life without the possibility of release for cases involving special circumstances.
Does Connecticut still have the death penalty?
No. Connecticut abolished the death penalty in 2012. Cases that would have previously been eligible can now result in life imprisonment without the possibility of release.
What is felony murder in Connecticut?
Felony murder generally applies when a death occurs during the commission of certain other serious felonies, even without specific intent to kill, and can carry the same penalties as murder.
Is there a time limit to charge someone with murder in Connecticut?
No. Unlike most crimes, murder generally has no statute of limitations in Connecticut and can be prosecuted at any time.
What defenses might apply to a murder charge?
Potential defenses include self-defense, mistaken identity, insufficient evidence, and extreme emotional disturbance, which may reduce a charge to manslaughter.
