Murder & Manslaughter Defence Lawyer Auckland

Understanding Homicide Charges in New Zealand

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Homicide charges in New Zealand fall into several distinct categories, each with specific legal elements and potential defences:

Murder
Murder charges apply when the prosecution alleges a person intentionally caused the death of another person, or caused death while displaying reckless disregard for human life. Murder carries a presumptive sentence of life imprisonment.

Manslaughter
Manslaughter charges typically involve causing death without the intent required for murder. This includes cases of criminal negligence or death resulting from an unlawful act. While still extremely serious, manslaughter charges carry more variable sentencing than murder.

Infanticide and Other Specific Homicide Charges
New Zealand law recognises additional categories of homicide under specific circumstances, including infanticide and other specialised charges that may apply depending on case details.

Each homicide case presents unique circumstances, evidence challenges, and potential defence strategies. The complexity of these cases demands legal representation with specific experience in homicide defence.

How Daniel Schellenberg Can Help

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A skilled homicide defence lawyer provides crucial guidance and representation throughout every stage of your case:

Comprehensive Case Analysis
Daniel meticulously examines every aspect of the allegations, including:

Forensic evidence and its collection procedures
Witness statements and reliability
Police investigation methods and potential procedural errors
Medical and pathology reports
Timeline inconsistencies

Strategic Defence Development
Based on thorough investigation, Daniel develops defence strategies that may include:

Self-defence claims: Establishing legitimate fear for your safety or the safety of others
Accident or lack of intent: Demonstrating the absence of criminal intent required for conviction
Causation challenges: Questioning whether your actions directly caused the death
Mistaken identity: Proving you were not the person responsible
Mental impairment: Addressing mental health factors relevant to the case

Expert Witness Coordination
Homicide cases often require specialised expert testimony. Daniel works with forensic specialists, pathologists, psychiatrists, and other experts to strengthen your defence.

Skilled Court Representation
With extensive courtroom experience in serious criminal matters, Daniel provides powerful advocacy throughout pre-trial proceedings, trial, and if necessary, during sentencing and appeals.

Useful Tips & Advice

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What should I do if I'm being investigated for homicide?

If you're under investigation for homicide:

Exercise your right to legal representation immediately
Do not speak to police without your lawyer present
Avoid discussing your case with anyone except your lawyer
Preserve any evidence or information that might support your defence

Follow your lawyer's guidance carefully throughout the process

What defences are available in homicide cases?

Depending on the specific circumstances, potential defences may include:

Self-defence or defence of others
Accident or absence of intent
Provocation (relevant to sentencing in some cases)
Mental impairment affecting capacity
Alibi evidence proving you weren't present
Challenging the cause of death
Procedural violations during investigation

How are homicide cases investigated?

Homicide investigations typically involve:

Extensive forensic examination of the scene and evidence
Detailed post-mortem examinations
Witness interviews and statement collection
Analysis of digital evidence, communications, and CCTV
Expert analysis of physical evidence
Review of any relevant history between involved parties

What penalties exist for homicide convictions?

Homicide convictions carry New Zealand's most severe penalties:

Murder: Life imprisonment with a minimum non-parole period (typically 10-17 years, but potentially longer)
Manslaughter: Maximum of life imprisonment, with sentences typically ranging from 2-10 years depending on circumstances
Long-term restrictions following release
Profound impacts on future employment, relationships, and opportunities

Why Choose Daniel Schellenberg

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When facing homicide allegations, your choice of legal representation will significantly impact the course of your case and potentially your entire future. Daniel Schellenberg offers:

Specialised expertise in homicide defence
Comprehensive case investigation and preparation
Strategic approach to complex legal and evidential challenges
Respectful, non-judgmental representation
Complete confidentiality and discretion
Clear communication throughout the legal process
Dedicated advocacy focused entirely on protecting your rights and securing the best possible outcome

Contact For Urgent Consultation

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Homicide allegations require immediate legal attention. Contact Daniel Schellenberg today for a confidential consultation to discuss your situation and understand your legal options.

Contact Daniel here.