New Jersey Murder Defense Attorney

At Putterman Legal, our New Jersey criminal defense lawyers have the experience, tenacity, and professional skill to handle even the most serious of criminal charges, including homicide cases. An allegation of murder is extremely serious. A conviction could potentially even lead to life imprisonment. You have the right to defend yourself. If you or your family member was arrested for murder, we can help. Contact our criminal defense attorney today for a fully confidential, no obligation free consultation.

What to Know About Murder Charges in New Jersey

There is no more serious criminal offense than one filed after a person’s death. Police and prosecutors are aggressive in these cases. They will invest resources, especially if the death was the result of (alleged) murder. Murder is one of the most serious offenses prosecuted in New Jersey. It is defined under N.J.S.A. 2C:11-3. The statute outlines intentional killings, deaths caused during certain felonies, and aggravated circumstances that elevate penalties. A murder conviction carries life-altering consequences, including decades in prison.

Our law office understands the criminal justice system and how prosecutors build their cases. We know they must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. When a defendant is charged with murder, the prosecution faces a high burden of proof. Every element of the crime must be established, and the circumstances surrounding the alleged offense matter greatly.

Definition of Murder

In the state, a person is guilty of murder if they purposely or knowingly cause the death of another, or cause serious bodily injury resulting in death. Murder also includes killings that occur during the commission or attempted commission of specified felonies such as robbery, burglary, arson, kidnapping, sexual assault, or carjacking. That specific type of offense is known as felony murder. It is a distinction that matters because it means that the prosecution does not need to prove intent to kill. Instead, participation in the underlying felony is enough to establish liability for murder.

Felony murder charges can stem from various violent crimes. If someone dies during an attempted criminal escape, aggravated assault, or when a deadly weapon is used to commit robbery, the person involved may face murder charges. The defendant’s conduct during the underlying felony becomes a key factor in the case.

Degrees and Penalties

Murder is a first-degree crime, but sentencing is far harsher than for other first degree indictable offenses. A standard murder conviction carries a minimum of 30 years without parole, with sentences ranging from 30 years to life imprisonment. For certain aggravating factors, such as killing a police officer or committing multiple murders, the statute requires life imprisonment without parole. Further, felony murder is still punishable by 30 years to life, even if the defendant was not the actual killer.

Note: Because the state abolished the death penalty in 2007, life terms with parole restrictions are the maximum penalties available.

Understanding Violent Crimes and Sexual Offenses

Our criminal defense lawyer handles a wide range of violent crimes beyond murder. These include aggravated sexual assault, sexual assault, aggravated criminal sexual contact, and criminal sexual contact. Each of these offenses carries serious penalties under New Jersey law. A criminal case involving violent crimes requires experienced legal representation to protect your rights.

Some murder cases arise from situations where the killing involved torture or extreme violence. In these situations, prosecutors pursue maximum sentences. Our law firm examines every detail of the charges. We look at whether self-defense applies, if bodily injury was intentional, and what a reasonable person would have done in similar circumstances.

The circumstances surrounding any alleged crime matter. Did the accused act in self-defense? Was there a deadly weapon present? These questions shape the defense strategy we build for each client.

Bonnie Putterman Defends Murder Charges in New Jersey

Murder is the most serious criminal charge that any person can face. When a murder investigation is underway, any person under suspicion needs a defense lawyer. It is best to have a lawyer before an arrest is made and any charges are filed. Bonnie Putterman is a top-tier New Jersey criminal defense attorney. With a long record of client testimonials, we believe that every person has the right to raise a zealous defense.

Our defense attorneys know that being found guilty of murder changes everything. We fight to ensure the prosecution meets its burden of proof. We challenge evidence, witness testimony, and procedural errors. Our New Jersey criminal lawyer works to show reasonable doubt exists in your case.

Along with other things, our New Jersey murder defense attorney will: 

• Hear your story and answer questions about your case; 
• Investigate the murder charge, carefully gathering key evidence; 
• Represent you before police officers and prosecutors; and
• Develop a personalized strategy focused on getting the best outcome. 

Murder Charges in New Jersey: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Contact Our New Jersey Murder Defense Lawyer Today

At Putterman Legal, our criminal lawyers are knowledgeable, tenacious advocates for clients. If you or your loved one is facing a homicide charge, we are more than ready to help. Our law office provides comprehensive criminal defense for New Jersey murder cases and other serious offenses. Contact us today for a completely confidential, no obligation free consultation at (609) 625-8383. We defend murder charges throughout the state.