Suffolk County Murder Defense Attorneys

Award-Winning Trial Attorneys Providing High-Quality Counsel in MA

The Law Office of Frank D. Camera and Associates is dedicated to providing outstanding legal representation for clients charged with murder. We understand how frightening it can be to face such serious charges, which is why we are committed to providing aggressive representation and supporting our clients throughout the entirety of their case. 

We understand that every case is different, and our legal team tailors our defense strategies to each client's individual circumstances. Our comprehensive approach includes scrutinizing the evidence, challenging the prosecution's case, and exploring all potential defenses to ensure the best possible outcome. Whether it is negotiating a plea deal, advocating for reduced charges, or fighting for an acquittal at trial, our team is committed to protecting your rights and securing your future.

Do not let a murder charge define your life. Trust the expertise of the Law Office of Frank D. Camera and Associates to provide the vigorous defense you need and deserve. 

Learn more about how the Law Office of Frank D. Camera and Associates can help you with your murder defense by calling (877) 444-1098 or reaching out online today.

Types of Murder Charges in Massachusetts 

In Massachusetts, murder is defined as the unlawful killing of another person. It is important to note the word unlawful, as acts of self-defense, the defense of others, or accidents would not fall under this definition. Within murder, there are several categories that a case could fall into depending on how the prosecution interprets the specifics; these categories are:

• First-Degree Murder: There are three theories under which this charge may be levied. One, the murder was premeditated. Two, the murder was committed with extreme atrocity and cruelty. Three, the murder occurred during the commission or attempted commission of an inherently dangerous felony.
• Second-Degree Murder: While the definition of second-degree murder in Massachusetts is any murder that is not first-degree murder, a conviction typically proves that an unlawful killing with malice took place but without premeditation.
• Voluntary Manslaughter: This crime is also defined as the intentional and unlawful killing of a person. However, it is distinct from first- and second-degree murder due to the absence of malice.
• Involuntary Manslaughter: If an unlawful killing occurred due to wanton and reckless behavior, and not intentionally, it might be considered involuntary manslaughter. 
• Vehicular Manslaughter: Also called homicide by motor vehicle, this crime is characterized by operating a motor vehicle recklessly or negligently to cause the death of another person. 

What Is the Sentence for Murder in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, first-degree murder carries a mandatory sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole. If found guilty of second-degree murder, the punishment is life imprisonment with the eligibility for parole after a specific number of years, which is determined by the court. 

Manslaughter sentences will vary depending on whether the defendant was convicted of voluntary manslaughter, involuntary manslaughter, or vehicular manslaughter—although all carry prison time and potentially high fines. A conviction might also have collateral consequences, such as loss of certain civil rights and difficulties in finding employment or housing. 

Work with Our Suffolk County Murder Defense Lawyers 

Backed by over three and a half decades of legal experience, the attorneys at the Law Office of Frank D. Camera and Associates have honed our courtroom skills and can fight to help you achieve the best possible case results. With a distinguished reputation among our peers and clients, we can help you navigate your murder case. 

As these charges have such serious legal consequences, it is in your best interest to retain an attorney who has experience handling similar cases and the capacity to offer you personalized attention. When you retain our services, you can trust that our attorneys will work tirelessly to protect your rights, freedom, and future. 

Suffolk County Felony Murder Defense Attorneys

Felony Murder in Massachusetts 

In Massachusetts, felony murder is a specific type of homicide charge that occurs when a person is killed during the commission or attempted commission of an inherently dangerous felony. Under Massachusetts law, examples of such felonies include, but are not limited to: 

• armed robbery, 
• rape,
• sexual assault 
• burglary, 
• aggravated assault and battery, 
• kidnapping, and 
• arson.

A person can be charged with felony murder if they participated in the underlying felony, even if they did not directly cause the death. For instance, if two individuals commit an armed robbery and one of them shoots and kills a bystander, both individuals could be charged with felony murder, as the death occurred during the commission of the felony. At trial, the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant participated in the underlying felony and that the victim's death occurred as a result of that felony or when the offender tried to flee the scene. 

What Is the Sentence for Felony Murder in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, felony murder is considered a form of first-degree murder, which carries a mandatory sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole. This sentencing guideline is consistent with other first-degree murder convictions in the state. A conviction for felony murder may have collateral consequences, such as loss of certain civil rights and difficulties in finding employment or housing. 

Work with Our Suffolk County Felony Murder Defense Lawyers 

Backed by over three and a half decades of legal experience, the attorneys at the Law Office of Frank D. Camera have honed our courtroom skills and can fight to help you achieve the best possible case results. With a distinguished reputation among our peers and clients, we can help you navigate your felony murder case. 

As these charges have such serious legal consequences, it is in your best interest to retain an attorney that has experience handling similar cases and that has the capacity to offer you personalized attention. When you retain our services, you can trust that our attorneys will work tirelessly to protect your rights, freedom, and future.

Contact our firm today via phone at (877) 444-1098 or using our online contact form.