Homicide Attorneys in Norman, OK

Homicide Defense Representation in Cleveland and McClain Counties and Throughout Oklahoma

If you have been charged with any form of homicide, you could be facing many years in prison, life in prison without parole, or even death. As stressful and frightening as this is, it’s important to stay calm and consult an experienced attorney as quickly as possible. Getting early legal guidance can help build a strong defense, protect your rights, and address the challenges of your case from the very beginning. Waiting too long to seek legal advice could jeopardize your ability to fight the charges effectively.

Experience matters in homicide cases, and we are ready to put ours to work for you. Schumacher Law Group has extensive experience providing criminal defense representation throughout Oklahoma, including in cases involving homicide. We are led by attorney Tracy Schumacher, a former district judge and former prosecutor in the district attorney’s office. She and the rest of our team have a deep understanding of the applicable laws as well as how the courts and prosecutors think. 

We can work closely with you to understand your side of the story and build a defense that highlights key facts, possible alibis, or alternative explanations. From consulting expert witnesses to challenging procedural errors, we focus on protecting your rights and are prepared to employ every legal strategy available to fight aggressively on your behalf. 

Do not wait to consult our homicide lawyers in Norman, OK, if you are facing these extremely serious charges. Call (405) 643-4884 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.

Types of Homicide Crimes in Oklahoma

Homicide in Oklahoma is defined as the killing of one human being by another. Most homicides are felonies, and the term encompasses several distinct categories under state law. 

First-Degree Malice Murder

First-degree malice murder in Oklahoma is defined as the unlawful and intentional killing of another person with malice aforethought. This type of murder involves premeditation, meaning the offender planned the act of killing prior to committing it. The intent to kill does not need to exist for a long period of time. Even a moment of premeditated intent can qualify a homicide as first-degree malice murder. 

Capital Murder

Capital murder is an aggravated form of first-degree murder that warrants the most severe penalties under Oklahoma’s legal system. This designation applies to particularly heinous or premeditated acts, as well as murders that occur under specific circumstances. For example, someone who has been previously convicted of a felony involving the use or threat of violence may face capital murder charges when formally accused of first-degree murder. 

Felony Murder

Felony murder in the first degree in Oklahoma occurs when a death results from the commission or attempted commission of certain felonies, regardless of intent to kill. These felonies include crimes like robbery with a dangerous weapon, first-degree burglary, first-degree arson, rape, or kidnapping, among others. 

The key factor distinguishing felony murder in the first degree is that the death must be directly linked to the felony or its immediate aftermath. Even if the killing was unintended or caused by an accomplice, all participants in the underlying felony can be held responsible for the death under Oklahoma law.

Second-Degree Murder

Second-degree murder in Oklahoma is generally defined as an unlawful killing that lacks the premeditation or intent associated with first-degree or capital murder. This category of homicide often applies in situations where the death occurs due to reckless behavior or a deliberate act without the intention to kill. For example, if an individual acts in a way that shows a depraved indifference to human life and that conduct results in someone's death, it may be prosecuted as second-degree murder. Another common scenario involves deaths caused during the commission of a felony that is not inherently violent.