Beverly Murder Defense Lawyers
- First-degree murder usually carries 20 to 60 years in prison. Some convictions result in longer sentences or natural life imprisonment.
- Illinois allows murder charges under accountability and felony murder laws, even when the accused did not personally cause the death.
- Homicide defenses often depend on forensic evidence, witness statements, and whether police followed proper procedures.
Murder Defense Attorneys Representing Clients Accused of Homicide in Cook County, Illinois
A murder investigation can begin long before formal charges are filed. Police may interview witnesses, collect physical evidence, and question people connected to the death. If you become a suspect, your statements and actions during the investigation can affect your defense. You do not have to answer questions, and you can ask to speak with a lawyer first.
At Komie and Associates, we represent people accused of homicide and other serious criminal cases throughout Cook County. Our attorneys examine the prosecution's evidence and work to protect clients throughout the criminal process.
Charged with a Crime?
Call Komie and Associates at 312-263-2800 to schedule your consultation — we know exactly how to fight for you.
Understanding First-Degree Murder Charges in Illinois
Under Illinois law, prosecutors must establish that the accused caused a death without lawful justification and had the required mental state. First-degree murder includes intentionally killing someone or knowingly causing acts that create a strong probability of death or great bodily harm. Prosecutors do not need to prove that the killing was planned.
Illinois also recognizes felony murder. This allows murder charges when someone dies during certain serious crimes, including robbery or burglary. Under the law changed in 2021, the death must be caused by the accused or another participant in the felony. The death must occur during the crime, an attempt to commit it, or flight from the crime.
Our attorneys examine whether prosecutors can prove every required element of the charge.
Penalties for First-Degree Murder in Illinois
A first-degree murder conviction ordinarily carries 20 to 60 years in prison. Illinois law also allows extended sentences of 60 to 100 years in certain circumstances. Some convictions carry mandatory natural life imprisonment. Firearm enhancements can add substantial prison time when the statutory requirements are met.
First-degree murder sentences are not eligible for ordinary good-conduct reductions. However, certain people who committed offenses before turning 21 may qualify for parole review under Illinois law. Because sentencing consequences are so serious, the defense must address both the allegations and any factors that could increase punishment.
Reviewing Forensic Evidence in Homicide Cases
Investigators may use several types of evidence in a homicide case, including:
- DNA evidence may show that someone touched an object, but it does not always establish when the contact happened.
- Fingerprints may connect someone to an object without proving they were involved in a crime.
- Firearms evidence may help investigators connect a weapon to a shooting.
- Phone records and surveillance footage may help establish someone's location or movements.
- Witness statements may contain mistakes, conflicting details, or unreliable memories.
Our attorneys carefully review this evidence to identify possible errors or weaknesses. We also compare witness statements with recordings, forensic results, and other records. The goal is to determine whether the evidence supports the prosecution's claims.
"Mr. Komie saved me and my daughter from a lifetime of pain. He is wise, diligent, intelligent, and trustworthy. There will never be enough 'thank yous' to express my gratitude for all he has done. His guidance and expertise showed through every step of the process, and I am forever grateful for his help over these past few years. I highly recommend Mr. Komie to anyone in need of someone who will truly fight for them..."
Challenging the Prosecution's Evidence
A murder defense may involve questioning how investigators obtained evidence and whether police respected the accused person's constitutional rights. For example, officers might search a home, vehicle, or phone during the investigation. If a search violated the law, we can ask the court to exclude the evidence.
The facts of the case may also support other defenses. For example, the evidence could show that you acted in self-defense or that prosecutors cannot prove who even caused the person's death. Every homicide case requires its own defense strategy. Our firm reviews the evidence and identifies weaknesses that could affect the prosecution's ability to prove guilt.
Pretrial Detention After a Murder Arrest in Illinois
Illinois no longer requires cash bail. Instead, judges decide whether a person can remain free while the criminal case proceeds.
Murder is among the offenses for which prosecutors may request pretrial detention. However, the prosecution must prove specific legal requirements by clear and convincing evidence. The judge must also determine whether release conditions could address the identified risks.
A detention hearing can affect your ability to remain with your family and help prepare your defense while awaiting trial.
Frequently Asked Questions About Murder Charges in Beverly
Simply being present when someone commits murder is not enough to establish guilt. Under Illinois accountability law, prosecutors must prove that you intentionally helped, encouraged, or agreed to assist with the crime. They may also rely on evidence of a shared criminal plan. Your actions before and during the crime can affect whether accountability applies.
Illinois generally requires electronic recording of custodial interrogations at police stations or other qualifying detention facilities in murder investigations. Statements obtained without the required recording are presumed inadmissible. However, statutory exceptions may allow some statements to be admitted.
Police also face additional restrictions when questioning minors. Confessions obtained through certain deceptive tactics are presumed inadmissible.
A first-degree murder charge may sometimes be reduced when the evidence supports a lesser offense. Second-degree murder may apply when legally recognized mitigating circumstances exist. These can include acting under serious provocation or holding an unreasonable belief that deadly force was justified.
A death caused by reckless conduct may instead support an involuntary manslaughter charge. The appropriate charge depends on the facts and the person's state of mind.
Contact Our Beverly Murder Defense Attorneys Today
Preparing a homicide defense requires a careful understanding of the evidence and the legal issues involved. Attorney Komie brings extensive courtroom experience to his work in criminal defense. At Komie and Associates, we challenge unreliable evidence, investigate possible defenses, and represent clients through pretrial hearings, trials, and appeals.
Contact our Beverly, IL murder defense lawyers or call 312-263-2800 to schedule a consultation and discuss your case.
Stephen Komie is battle-tested in the courtroom and has spent over 40 years fighting for clients facing serious criminal charges.
- 40+ years representing clients in state, federal & international trials
- Argued 5 cases before the Illinois Supreme Court
- Top 100 Trial Lawyer (National Trial Lawyers & American Trial Lawyers Association)
- Author of the Attorney's Bill of Rights, adopted by the Illinois Supreme Court
- Admitted to practice before the U.S. Supreme Court
- Founder, Komie and Associates
Practice Areas
Cook County Circuit Court
2650 S California Ave #526 Chicago, IL 60608
Schedule a Consultation Today
The use of the Internet or this form for communication with the firm or any individual member of the firm does not establish an attorney-client relationship. Confidential or time-sensitive information should not be sent through this form.
I have read and understand the Disclaimer and Privacy Policy.
Map & Directions
From our office in Chicago, Illinois we serve clients throughout the state including but not limited to Joliet, Bridgeview, Wheaton, Rolling Meadows, Lombard, Skokie, Morris, Ottawa, Princeton, Cambridge, Waukegan, LaSalle, Bureau, Peoria, Bloomington, Rockford, Quincy, Macomb, McHenry, Springfield, Rock Island, East St. Louis, Belleville, Elizabethtown, Cook County, Winnebago County, Kane County, Lake County, DuPage County, Jo Daviess County and Northeast Illinois.
Results listed are not a guarantee or indication of future case results.
