When you’re facing homicide-related charges in Arizona, the stakes couldn’t be higher. These offenses carry severe penalties, including very lengthy prison sentences and, in some cases, even the death penalty. If you’re charged with any of these crimes, it’s imperative to seek immediate legal counsel from a skilled and experienced criminal defense attorney.

Here are the four major homicide-related offenses under Arizona law:

13-1102: Negligent Homicide

• Defined as causing the death of another person, including an unborn child, due to criminal negligence.
• Applies to an unborn child at any stage of development.
• Class 4 felony offense

13-1103: Manslaughter

• Committed by recklessly causing the death of another person, among other circumstances.
• Includes causing the death of an unborn child by any physical injury to the mother.
• Class 2 felony offense

13-1104: Second Degree Murder

• Committed without premeditation but with intent, knowledge, or extreme indifference to human life.
• Applies to an unborn child at any stage of development.
• Class 1 felony offense, punishable by death or life imprisonment in certain circumstances

13-1105: First Degree Murder

• Committed with premeditation or during the commission of certain enumerated felonies, among other circumstances.
• Includes causing the death of an unborn child.
• Class 1 felony offense, punishable by death or life imprisonment