13 January 2025

Murder allegation against client – No further action taken

We represented our client for an allegation of murder.  Our client was interviewed by the police over the course of two days. The investigation was complex and involved evidence from a neuropathologist. Our client strongly maintained his innocence throughout. Our client highlighted to the police that the deceased suffered an accidental injury that was not caused by him, this was put forward in the police interview. After the initial detention in police custody of two days our client was granted unconditional bail. We assisted our client in the meantime with conferences at our office. We also discussed matters with an experienced pathologist.

From the outset, we work closely with our client to understand the full circumstances surrounding the incident. This includes thoroughly reviewing all evidence. We used our experience with similar murder and manslaughter cases to formulate a strong defence strategy that was tailored to the specifics of this case. Following this, a decision was made by the police to take no further action against our client.

Murder is defined as the unlawful killing of a person with intent to kill or to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH).

This means that for an act to be considered murder, the following elements must be present:

  1. Unlawful killing: The death must be caused unlawfully, meaning without a legal justification (e.g., self-defence).
  2. Intent: The defendant must have had the intention to kill the victim or to cause serious harm (GBH). This can include either direct intent (where the defendant aimed to kill or cause GBH) or indirect intent (where the defendant foresaw the consequence as a result of their actions, even if they did not specifically intend it).

Murder is a serious crime in England and Wales and carries a mandatory sentence of life imprisonment, although the judge may set a minimum term before the offender can be considered for parole, depending on the circumstances of the case. It is important to note that if a person causes a death but without the intent to kill or cause GBH, the offence may be considered manslaughter rather than murder.

How Sahota & Sahota Solicitors Can Help You

If you are arrested or charged with a murder related offence, Sahota & Sahota Solicitors can provide expert legal representation at every stage, including:

  • Police station representation
  • Representation at the Magistrates Court and Crown Court (in England and Wales)
  • Assistance with seeking Legal Aid

Our criminal defence team has a proven track record of success in defending cases involving:

  • Murder
  • Manslaughter
  • Gross negligence manslaughter
  • Attempt murder
  • Assisting an offender
If you need expert advice do not hesitate to contact us on 0116 255 5155. Our phone lines are open 24 hours a day seven days a week.

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