If you or a loved one is facing homicide charges in Missouri, every moment matters.
The stakes couldn’t be higher—your future, your freedom, and your life may hang in the balance.
Call Now for a Free Consultation : 314-949-1515 Homicide in Missouri isn’t just one charge—it includes multiple offenses based on intent, mental state, and the circumstances. Below is a breakdown of the most common charges:
Premeditated, intentional killing. Requires proof of “deliberation” before the act.
Penalty: Life without parole or death.
RSMo § 565.020
Includes intentional killings without deliberation and felony murder (causing death during a felony).
Penalty: 10–30 years or life with parole.
RSMo § 565.021
Killing in the “heat of passion” after provocation or assisting suicide.
Penalty: Class B felony – 5 to 15 years.
RSMo § 565.023
Causing death through reckless or criminally negligent behavior (e.g., drunk driving).
Penalty: First Degree: Class C felony (up to 10 years)
Second Degree: Class E felony (up to 4 years)
RSMo § 565.024 | RSMo § 565.027
We develop a personalized defense strategy based on the facts of your case. Here are some powerful legal defenses recognized in Missouri courts:
If you reasonably believed deadly force was necessary to prevent death or serious injury, your actions may be completely justified under Missouri’s Stand Your Ground and Castle Doctrine laws.
No duty to retreat. No obligation to flee. You have the right to protect yourself and your home.
When there are no eyewitnesses, your version of events may be the only narrative available. Missouri law places the burden on the State to disprove your claim of self-defense beyond a reasonable doubt.
McQueen v. State, 475 S.W.2d 654 (Mo. 1971)
You believed you were acting in self-defense—but the belief or your reaction was unreasonable? Missouri courts allow juries to consider manslaughter instead of murder in these cases.
Reed v. State, 633 S.W.3d 140 (Mo. App. 2021)
Each case is unique, and we leave no stone unturned when building your defense.
Missouri has some of the strongest self-defense protections in the nation:
Need to know whether Missouri’s self-defense laws apply to your case? We can help.
Focused on Criminal Defense Only
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Deep Knowledge of Local Courts: St. Louis City, County, St. Charles, Jefferson, and more
We handle complex murder cases, domestic homicide, vehicular manslaughter, and more
Homicide charges demand a relentless defense. Your side of the story matters—let us help you tell it. We’ll review your charges, explain your options, and start building a plan to protect your future.
Call Now for a Free Consultation : 314-949-1515