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Homicide

Homicide Attorneys in New York

Arrested for Murder or Manslaughter in New York?

Barket Epstein Kearon Aldea & LoTurco, LLP has a proven track record of success in representing clients facing homicide charges. Our experience in handling high-profile murder cases is extensive—not only have we successfully defended clients facing murder and manslaughter charges, but founding partner Bruce Barket was on the legal team that overturned the double murder conviction of Martin Tankleff, who spent 18 years in prison after being wrongfully convicted of killing his parents. Mr. Barket and the team have since secured a $3.4 million settlement on behalf of Mr. Tankleff for his wrongful imprisonment.

With murder charges, nothing less than the absolute best defense will do. Barket Epstein Kearon Aldea & LoTurco, LLP is no stranger to managing every aspect of a homicide case, including the media. We draw on over 200 years of combined experience to deliver high-quality criminal defense counsel that matches the gravity of the situation. Your freedom and very life may be on the line; our New York City homicide lawyers are here to defend you to the fullest extent.

Call (888) 779-0267 or contact us online if you are interested in discussing your case with a qualified New York City homicide attorney. Your initial consultation is free and strictly confidential.

Defenses Against Homicide Charges in NY

Homicide cases can be won or lost based on the smallest details, making a meticulous investigation and discovery phase critical. Because of our diverse experience on both sides of criminal court proceedings, and even behind the bench, we know exactly what it takes to create a clear and compelling case for a client facing homicide charges. No detail will be overlooked as we develop a defense strategy that will offer the opportunity for the best possible result.

The following are examples of potential defenses to criminal homicide:

  • Alibi: A defense in which the defendant proves that they were somewhere else when the crime occurred and therefore could not have committed it.
  • Absence of Gross Deviation from a Reasonable Person’s Actions: A defense arguing that the defendant’s conduct did not significantly depart from what a reasonable person would have done under the same circumstances, meaning the required negligence or recklessness is not present.
  • Self-Defense: A defense claiming that the defendant used force to protect themselves from an imminent threat of unlawful harm or death.
  • Defense of Another: A defense asserting that the defendant used force to protect another person from an immediate threat of harm or death.
  • Mental Disease or Defect: A defense arguing that, due to a mental illness or defect, the defendant lacked the capacity to understand the nature or wrongfulness of their actions.
  • Extreme Emotional Disturbance: A defense claiming that the defendant acted while under an extreme emotional state caused by extraordinary circumstances, which may reduce criminal liability.
  • Actual Innocence: A defense asserting that the defendant did not commit the crime and that the evidence shows they are factually innocent.

Effective Representation for Your Homicide Charges in NY

All is not lost in the face of a murder or homicide charge. Barket Epstein Kearon Aldea & LoTurco, LLP has the extensive experience, unmatched resources, and exceptional skill to effectively represent you. We work with industry professionals to develop solid defense strategies, and we leave no stone unturned in our pursuit of a favorable outcome for our clients.

Our team approach means that a homicide case is never handled in isolation by a single lawyer. We regularly bring together former prosecutors, a former judge, and former public defenders within our firm to evaluate charging decisions, potential plea offers, and trial strategies. That internal review allows us to anticipate how different district attorneys’ offices in New York may view the same set of facts and to prepare you for the critical choices you will face about whether to go to trial, negotiate a plea, or challenge evidence through pretrial motions.

Call (888) 779-0267 to discover how the New York homicide attorneys at Barket Epstein Kearon Aldea & LoTurco, LLP can help you.

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Facing Homicide Charges in New York City? Contact Us Now

Anyone under investigation or already charged with a criminal homicide offense should contact a homicide lawyer in New York before speaking with law enforcement. Early legal involvement can significantly affect how a case develops. Evidence can be lost, witness recollections change, and prosecutors begin building their case the moment an arrest is made.

Barket Epstein Kearon Aldea & LoTurco, LLP answers calls 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Your initial consultation is free and strictly confidential. We can listen to the facts of your situation, explain your options, and tell you where things stand without any obligation to move forward. We have three office locations for clients throughout the New York area, and we’re ready to respond when you need us most.

For many people, a homicide investigation begins with a knock on the door, a request to “come down to the precinct,” or a grand jury subpoena in one of the New York City boroughs or surrounding counties. Having counsel at that stage can affect whether you are arrested, how bail is argued in court, and what information the prosecution receives before it files formal charges. By involving our firm early, you give us the opportunity to protect your rights during questioning, preserve favorable evidence, and start preparing for arraignment and the critical decisions that follow.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I Be Released on Bail in a New York Homicide Case?

Bail decisions in homicide cases are made by the judge at your arraignment after hearing from the prosecutor and your attorney. The court will consider the seriousness of the charge, your criminal history, your ties to the community, and any risk of flight. In some cases the judge may order remand without bail, while in others the court may set a bail amount or, less commonly, supervised release.

Should I Talk to the Police If I Know I Am Innocent?

Even if you believe you have nothing to hide, speaking to detectives or prosecutors without legal advice can create serious problems for your defense. Statements can be misinterpreted, taken out of context, or used to fill gaps in the prosecution’s theory of what happened. Consulting our New York City homicide lawyer before any interview allows you to understand the risks and decide how to proceed in a way that protects your rights.

How Long Do New York Homicide Cases Usually Take?

Homicide cases in New York are rarely resolved quickly because they involve complex evidence, extensive discovery, and serious potential penalties. It can take months or even longer than a year to move from arrest to trial or a negotiated resolution, depending on the court’s calendar and the amount of investigation required. During that time, there are multiple court appearances where legal issues are addressed and both sides evaluate the strength of their positions.

Early legal guidance can shape the outcome of your case. Work with homicide attorneys in New York as soon as possible. Call (888) 779-0267 or contact Barket Epstein Kearon Aldea & LoTurco, LLP.

What Sets Barket Epstein Apart?

An Exceptional Blend of Knowledge & Experience
  • Leaders in High-Stakes Litigation

    Trusted with the region’s most high-profile cases—including landmark civil rights lawsuits, major criminal trials, and government investigations—our attorneys bring unmatched skill, discretion, and determination to every matter.

  • A Nationwide Influence

    Barket Epstein's attorneys are regularly featured in the media to discuss their recent cases or offer insight on current events.

  • Over Two Centuries of Combined Experience

    Barket Epstein has 13 attorneys who collectively bring over 200 years of experience to each case. Our team is comprised of former judges, former prosecutors, professors and true thought leaders in our fields. 

  • A Comprehensive Team Approach

    Given the experience and knowledge we have amongst the attorneys at our firm, we utilize a team approach. Each client benefits from the expertise of several attorneys, not just the one assigned to their case.

  • Thousands of Cases Handled

    Our Criminal Defense team has represented over 1,000 clients with charges ranging from DWI to homicide.

  • Three Convenient Office Locations

    Our firm offers clients three convenient locations in Garden City, Manhattan, and Huntington. 

Nationally Recognized Law Firm

A Commitment to Excellence