Your Dedicated Defense Attorney For Felony Murder Cases In Boston

If a person dies during crimes such as armed robbery, rape or kidnapping, a defendant may face charges for first-degree murder, even if they did not have an intention to kill. This is known as the felony-murder rule, and it can turn an already serious criminal charge into a fight against life imprisonment without parole. 

When a person faces felony-murder charges in Massachusetts, their future and freedom are on the line. It’s wise to have an attorney who is not afraid of taking complicated cases to trial. Criminal defense lawyer Lefteris K. Travayiakis has been defending clients against major felony crimes, including homicide and murder, for over two decades. Known for his formidable courtroom presence and relentless pursuit of justice, he is ready to advocate for your rights throughout the legal process. 

What Is The Felony-Murder Rule In Massachusetts?

For a prosecutor to secure a conviction under the felony-murder rule, they must establish the following elements beyond a reasonable doubt:

• The defendant must have committed or attempted to commit a felony that carries a potential life sentence
• A killing must have occurred during the commission or attempted commission of that underlying felony
• The felony itself must be inherently dangerous, or the defendant’s actions during the felony must demonstrate a conscious disregard for human life

For a felony-murder conviction, the prosecution must also prove that the death was directly connected to the felony and happened at substantially the same time and place. This connection can extend to situations where the death occurred while escaping or trying to get away from the felony itself or its immediate aftermath.

Can A Person Face Felony-Murder Charges Even If They Did Not Commit The Killing?

Yes, under certain circumstances, a person can face felony-murder charges even if they were not the person who directly caused the death. This often involves the concept of joint venture liability. If a person participates in a serious felony with others, and a death occurs during that felony, the court may hold all participants responsible for felony-murder, provided the prosecution can prove that:

• They knowingly participated in the underlying felony
• They knew or should have known that their companion’s actions carried a risk of death or serious bodily harm
• The death occurred as a direct result of the felony or an attempt to escape from it

This means that even if the defendant did not pull the trigger or inflict a fatal blow, their involvement in the underlying felony could lead to a felony-murder charge if a death occurs. 

What Defenses Exist For Felony-Murder Charges?

No two cases are the same, and attorney Travayiakis tailors his defense strategies according to the specific facts and circumstances of each client’s case. This may include

• Challenging the underlying felony or the evidence linking the defendant to the crime
• Asserting that the death was not a direct result of the crime being committed, or that it happened at a completely different time or place
• Showing that the defendant’s actions during the felony were not reckless or did not show a clear disrespect for human life, or that the felony itself wasn’t truly dangerous as claimed by the prosecution
• Arguing that the defendant lacked the necessary intent for the underlying felony
• Scrutinizing the prosecution’s evidence, including witness testimony, DNA, or other forensic findings

Attorney Travayiakis has a strong record of success in the pretrial stage, litigating motions that can result in the exclusion of evidence or even dismissal of charges. When a case proceeds to trial, he is committed to fighting for his client’s rights and future, even in the most challenging circumstances.

Call An Attorney Who Will Fight Tirelessly On Your Behalf

Felony-murder charges in Massachusetts require the experience of a seasoned criminal defense lawyer. The Law Offices of Lefteris K. Travayiakis offers free initial consultations and is accessible 24/7 to discuss your legal options. Call him today at 617-657-2333 or submit your inquiry online.