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Louisiana Murder Defense Attorney
Call Us | 318-377-1555
Murder Defense Lawyer in Shreveport, Bossier City, Monroe, & Ruston, LA
Providing Representation for Murder Defendants
It goes without saying that murder charges are the most severe criminal charges a person can face. The consequences a person can be subjected to if convicted of murder in Louisiana would change that person’s entire life, and deprive that person of a future to look forward to. If you face murder charges in Louisiana, you need to work with a strong defense attorney who has decades of experience fighting difficult charges. Attorney Eric G. Johnson of The John D. & Eric G. Johnson Law Firm has that experience.
Murder in Louisiana Overview
Louisiana identifies two distinct murder charges: first degree murder and second degree murder. They are almost the same in that they both define the act of ending another’s life with specific intent to kill or inflict bodily harm; however, significant differences influence the charges you will face depending on the circumstances of your case, as well as the possible sentence.
First degree murder is a premeditated act. This type of murder generally takes place under aggravating circumstances and carries the most serious penalties. A person faces first degree murder charges if he or she murders another while committing certain felony offenses. One can also be charged with first degree murder for killing police officers, firemen, children under 12, senior citizens, and other persons of special interest or for killing two or more people.
One can be charged with second degree murder when there is specific intent to kill but the offender is not committing a felony at the time of the murder. A person who kills while committing a felony but did not have the intent to can also face second degree murder charges instead of first degree murder charges. Finally, a drug dealer who sells a dangerous controlled substance that eventually kills the recipient of the substance can also face second degree murder charges.
What are the Penalties for Murder in Louisiana?
First degree murder is distinct in that it is the only charge for which you may face the possibility of the death penalty if convicted in Louisiana. You may also be sentenced to a life in prison with hard labor without possibility of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.
A conviction for second degree murder ends in an automatic life sentence with zero chance of release.
Manslaughter in Louisiana
Manslaughter is a type of homicide that is committed under mitigating circumstances. Often, the accused was provoked by an unexpected circumstance and committed the crime in the heat of passion.
Manslaughter may be an attack based on an event which may have provided sufficient provocation to deprive the offender of self-control. There is no intent to cause bodily harm or death. The maximum penalty for manslaughter in Louisiana is 40 years with hard labor.
When arrested for first or second degree murder or manslaughter in Louisiana, you need a criminal defense lawyer who knows how to negotiate plea deals and try cases when necessary. Attorney Eric Johnson has been doing this very thing since 1993. It would be an understatement to say he knows what he’s doing in Louisiana courtrooms. Oftentimes, he’s negotiated serious felony charges down to misdemeanors. His legal representation has led to the dismissal of murder charges for several clients, and a reduction in charges for many more.
The Deal Maker and Problem Solver
Eric Johnson knows trials are unpredictable. To avoid the risks associated with trials, he strives to obtain the best possible deal for his clients. His record at successfully trying cases is well known in the legal community where he practices. In other words, experience and reputation matter. Prosecutors know Eric will put up a vigorous defense, greatly increasing the odds of a favorable disposition of the client’s case.
Eric uses the best investigators and experts in various fields, along with his own excellent support staff, when preparing the case for trial. Because he comes prepared with all the facts when plea bargaining with prosecutors, he is able to obtain a better deal.
Eric also educates himself on the best defenses used in criminal cases. He and his staff regularly attend continuing education classes taught by some of the best criminal defense lawyers in the country to stay updated on the constant changes taking place in the field of criminal law. Eric regularly reads new opinions released by Louisiana District Courts, Courts of Appeal and the Louisiana Supreme Court to stay ahead of the curve.
Through his 27 years of legal experience in Louisiana, Eric Johnson has had murder cases dismissed or reduced to lesser charges based on a claim of self-defense. He has strong and long-standing relationships with sheriffs, judges and district attorneys throughout our state. They respect his integrity and his work ethic. The clients who have retained him respect him even more.
To schedule a free consultation with Eric, call The John D. & Eric G. Johnson Law Firm at 318-377-1555 or contact us online.