Philadelphia Homicide Lawyer

In order to prove that a defendant is guilty of murder or manslaughter, the prosecution must prove that he or she committed the act and did so with a certain state of mind. This is not an easy task. No matter the circumstances, homicide and manslaughter cases present a complex set of legal challenges that demand representation from a skilled, dedicated and experienced criminal defense attorney. Don't compromise your freedom and your future.

At the law office of attorney Randolph L. Goldman, our Philadelphia homicide defense lawyers understand how murder cases are investigated and what has to be done to discredit the prosecution's case. We also understand how to attempt to have the charges against you dropped or the sentence reduced. To discuss your case and learn how we can help you, contact criminal defense lawyer Randolph L. Goldman today.

Pennsylvania Murder Defense Attorney

Murder Investigations

Homicide investigators are aware of the fact that, statistically speaking, most murder victims knew their killer. As a result, it's not uncommon for police and investigators to focus an investigation on spouses, family members, friends, significant others, neighbors or co-workers. Once this happens, circumstantial evidence may convince them that you are the primary suspect. As soon as you believe or know that you are a suspect in a murder investigation, it is imperative to retain legal representation. An experienced lawyer can ensure that your rights are protected, advise you of your options, and provide a reassuring voice during unsettling times.

We regularly consult with forensic experts, hair and fiber analysts, fingerprint specialists, and lab technicians when building our defense. We also work with private investigators in interviewing witnesses, following alternative leads, and exposing illegal police tactics.

Voluntary Manslaughter and Involuntary Manslaughter Charges

• Voluntary manslaughter means the defendant acted with the intent to kill or cause serious bodily injury, yet the consequences of his or her act are mitigated due to the surrounding circumstances. In general, this means that the defendant committed the murder after being sufficiently provoked, or "in the heat of the moment" without any prior deliberation. For example, a husband, in a moment of blind rage, may murder his wife upon discovering her infidelity.
• Involuntary manslaughter generally involves dangerous behavior that displayed a reckless indifference towards the wellbeing of others. Drinking and driving or illegal street racing involves dangerous behavior are common examples. In these types of cases, the defendant need not have formed the intent to kill as required in murder or voluntary manslaughter cases. Here, the prosecution needs to demonstrate that the accused acted with a reckless disregard for human life.
• In both types of manslaughter cases, it is important to challenge the prosecution's version of events and claims about why a defendant acted in the way he or she did. As your attorney, Randolph L. Goldman will carefully examine the circumstances to point out any inconsistencies in eyewitness testimony and to debunk the assumptions of prosecutors.

Contact Homicide Defense Attorney Randolph L. Goldman Today

Whether you've been arrested or are currently a suspect in a murder, manslaughter or vehicular manslaughter investigation, contact criminal defense lawyer Randolph Goldman today to schedule a confidential consultation to discuss your case.