Attempted Murder Defense Lawyer in Newport News and Hampton, Virginia

Criminal Defense With More Than 37 Years of Experience

Murder, manslaughter, and attempted manslaughter cases are seldom straightforward. Police officers often fail to properly secure crime scenes, carefully handle evidence, or interview all relevant witnesses. Prosecutors are also challenged to establish a motive and illustrate the state of mind for individuals accused of attempted murder and murder.

At the law office of John J. Rice, I offer more than 37 years of experience as a criminal defense attorney. I am prepared to expose law enforcements' mistakes, while providing valuable information and evidence that contradicts the prosecution's official story.

If you have been arrested or are under investigation for a homicide charge, contact my law office today to schedule a confidential, free initial consultation. I will explain the attorney-client privilege and the steps I will take to develop a compelling defense strategy.

Challenging 'Business as Usual' Investigations

Most criminal investigators will tell you that the majority of murder victims knew their killer. As a result, when a murder happens, police almost always focus their attention on family members, friends, lovers, or neighbors. As information is collected, a theory typically emerges that begins to connect evidence — some or all circumstantial in nature — pointing in a few directions. Consequently, alternative suspects or leads that contradict the theory are often discarded. After all, police and investigators only have a limited amount of time and money to investigate and prepare a case.

Police and prosecutors pursue convictions. Consequently, they are unlikely to look for evidence that exonerates the person they believe fits their working theory. I have the resources and experience needed to fight the prosecution and expose their groundless assumptions and mistakes.

Putting the Prosecution on the Defensive

As a murder defense attorney, my office exposes gaps in the prosecution's theory and investigation against my client. Not only do I meticulously evaluate how evidence was mishandled or how the crime scene was possibly tainted, I also take the time to track down eyewitnesses ignored by the prosecution.

In murder and attempted murder cases, it is not unusual for a witness who contradicts the prosecution's version of events to be excluded from the witness list. I find these witnesses, look carefully at alternative suspects and put the prosecution's case on trial.

Contact My Law Office Today

I am a Newport News and Hampton, Virginia criminal defense lawyer with experience and empathy to help preserve your constitutional rights. Contact my law office by e-mail or call (757) 873-8809 during business hours or for after-hours emergencies.