Murder Laws And Penalties In Indiana
At the Law Office of B.D. Williams, you can rely on an Indianapolis murder defense attorney with two decades of experience who has been recognized nationally on The National Trial Lawyers: Top 100 list. Our attorney is often hired by other lawyers in serious cases involving offenses such as murder.
You are innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Our lawyer is here to help you fight any false accusations, uncover flaws and weaknesses in the state’s evidence as well as police procedures and investigations, and carefully develop a defense strategy that may put guilt in doubt. Our attorney’s mission is to tenaciously protect your rights and your fair treatment throughout the legal process while pursuing the best outcome possible.
Contact us online or by calling (317) 500-4857 for a free consultation about your case with our Indianapolis murder defense lawyer.
Understanding How Indiana Defines Murder
Murder in Indiana is defined as the following:
- Killing another person intentionally
- Killing a viable fetus intentionally
- Killing another during the commission or attempted commission of arson, kidnapping, burglary, rape, child molestation, robbery, consumer product tampering, human trafficking, criminal deviate conduct, sex trafficking of a minor or carjacking
- Killing another during the commission or attempted commission of dealing in or manufacturing methamphetamine, cocaine or other controlled substances
Penalties For Murder Charges in Indiana
The penalties for murder include 45 to 65 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000, life imprisonment without parole and the death penalty (for those over the age of 18). Sentencing in a murder conviction will depend on the facts and circumstances of the case. Aggravating circumstances can result in stiffer penalties, such as having previous murder convictions, acting as a hired assassin, using an explosive device, killing a child under 12 and more. Mitigating circumstances can result in a less severe sentence. These can include having no criminal history, acting under extreme emotional disturbance or under the control of another, and more.
Legal Defenses To Murder
Criminal homicides, also known as murders, have been rising across the city of Indianapolis as well as the rest of the U.S. As a result, law enforcement and state prosecutors have become more aggressive in investigating, arresting and prosecuting alleged defendants. Being accused of murder is one of the most serious situations anyone will ever face. It is a terrifying prospect that has life-changing consequences. If you or someone you love has been accused of murder in Indiana, your choice of an Indianapolis murder defense lawyer is a crucial decision that can have a dramatic impact on your future.
Start Protecting Your Rights Now
Many defenses can be used against murder charges based on the specifics of each case. However, you will need a strong defender who has substantial trial experience. Due to the serious consequences you could be facing, it’s time to trust your freedom and future to our Indianapolis murder defense attorney at the Law Office of B.D. Williams. Contact us online or by calling (317) 500-4857.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the elements of murder in Indiana?
In Indiana, murder is defined as intentionally killing another person, intentionally killing a viable fetus, or killing another person during the commission of a felony such as arson, burglary, or robbery. Additionally, murders can occur in the commission or attempted commission of serious drug-related offenses like manufacturing methamphetamine or cocaine.
What qualifies for the death penalty in Indiana?
The death penalty in Indiana applies to individuals over the age of 18 who are convicted of particularly heinous crimes. Aggravating factors, such as committing murder for hire, using explosives, or killing a child under 12, can qualify a person for the death penalty. Mitigating circumstances, such as mental illness, may affect the sentence.
What does felony murder mean in Indiana?
Felony murder in Indiana refers to a death that occurs during the commission of a felony. Even if the defendant did not directly cause the death, they could still be charged with murder if the death resulted from the felony. Crimes like burglary, arson, or kidnapping can lead to felony murder charges if someone is killed during the commission or attempted commission of these crimes.
What is the penalty for murder in Indiana?
The penalty for murder in Indiana includes a prison sentence ranging from 45 to 65 years, a fine of up to $10,000, life imprisonment without parole, or the death penalty. Aggravating or mitigating circumstances, such as having no prior criminal history or being under emotional distress, can affect sentencing severity.
What are the requirements for murder charges in Indiana?
To charge someone with murder in Indiana, the prosecution must prove that the accused intentionally killed another person, or a viable fetus, or committed a murder while engaging in a separate felony offense such as arson, robbery, or kidnapping. Intent and malice are critical components for proving murder.
Who cannot receive the death penalty in Indiana?
Individuals who are under 18 years old or those with severe intellectual disabilities cannot receive the death penalty in Indiana. The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that executing minors or individuals with intellectual disabilities constitutes cruel and unusual punishment.
Is there a bond for murder in Indiana?
Generally, there is no bond available for individuals charged with murder in Indiana. Murder is considered a capital offense, and those accused are typically held without bond due to the severity of the crime and the potential flight risk or danger to the public.
