Murder/Homicide Attorney in Kenosha, Wisconsin

Nearly 35 Years of Experience Taking Serious
Cases to Trial

Unlike other states, Wisconsin does not use the word “murder” except in reference to felony murder. Felony murder occurs when one causes the death of another while committing some type of felony crime, such as armed robbery, arson, or rape. In Wisconsin, murder is referred to as homicide, which may either be intentional or unintentional. Of course, this is the most serious charge you can face because it involves the taking of human life. As such, it is aggressively prosecuted and harshly punished.

If you are being investigated by any law enforcement agency for a homicide or if you are facing homicide charges, you need experienced and committed legal representation as soon as possible. At the Law Office of John Anthony Ward, you can retain the services of a criminal defense attorney with extensive experience which includes more than 200 jury trials. Our Kenosha homicide defense lawyer has been handling criminal defense cases since 1985 and his outstanding work has led to a top rating through peer review by the legal organization of Martindale Hubbell®. We understand the high stakes involved in any homicide investigation or charge and will use all available legal avenues in search of the most effective defense strategy for your case.

Intentional Homicide

Intentional homicide involves intentionally causing the death of another, which can include an unborn child. This violent crime may be charged as first-degree or second-degree depending on the circumstances, such as premeditation and/ or a wanton disregard for human life. Intentional homicide is charged as the highest-level felony, which is a Class A punishable by up to life in prison.

Second-degree intentional homicide may be a justifiable killing and is differentiated from first-degree by varying factors. These factors include losing one’s self-control due to undue provocation, using unnecessary force in the belief that one was in imminent harm of being killed or dangerously injured, using force in trying to prevent some type of felony from taking place or using force to prevent imminent death to oneself or another or to prevent some public disaster. This type of homicide carries penalties of up to 60 years in prison as a Class B felony.

Unintentional Homicide

Often known as manslaughter in other states, unintentional homicide can occur in several ways in Wisconsin. This offense may be committed with a vehicle by driving under the influence of an intoxicant and also occur in other ways associated with intoxication. Vehicular unintentional homicide may be charged as a Class D felony punishable by up to 25 years in prison and fines of up to $100,000.

You may also be charged with reckless homicide in which a complete disregard for human life was exhibited and your actions created an unreasonable and substantial risk of causing great injury or death. This type of homicide is charged as a Class B felony and is punishable by up to 60 years in prison. You may also be charged with unintentional homicide if you give someone a controlled substance that causes death. This second type of reckless homicide is charged as a Class C felony punishable by up to 40 years in prison.

Felony Murder

If your actions were a substantial factor in the death of another while you were attempting to or accomplished some other felony crime, you will be charged with felony murder. Being convicted of this crime will add an additional 15 years to whatever your sentence may be for the underlying felony.

In any homicide case, it is the burden of the prosecutor to prove all elements of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. Our firm will take the necessary legal steps to help you avoid a mistaken conviction, uncover weaknesses in the state’s evidence, and assert the best possible defense based on the unique facts and circumstances of your case. We are passionate about defending your legal rights and pursuing your best interests from start to finish.