Homicide & Murder Case Study
Whether the defendant's claim of self-defense was sufficient to negate the malice required for murder.
The court reversed the murder conviction, finding that the evidence supported the defendant's claim of self-defense. The court held that where the defendant reasonably believed they were in imminent danger of death or serious bodily harm, and used no more force than reasonably necessary, the killing was justified and not murder.
Self-defense is a complete defense to murder in Virginia. D.J. Rivera develops self-defense arguments in homicide cases by gathering evidence of the alleged victim's prior violent conduct, the defendant's reasonable belief of imminent danger, and the proportionality of the force used. Expert testimony on the dynamics of violent confrontations can be powerful in self-defense cases.
This case involves § 18.2-32 of the Virginia Code. For a full analysis of how this statute applies to your case, consult with D.J. Rivera.
D.J. Rivera applies the lessons of cases like this one to defend clients throughout Richmond and Northern Virginia. Free consultation available 24/7.
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