After a mistrial, a conviction, and a successful appeal leading to a new trial, a New York man has ultimately been sentenced to prison for good. For almost 30 years, a fatal shooting had left Atlantic City police baffled. However, in 2002, authorities identified New York City resident Brian Wilson as a suspect. Following a complex and prolonged legal battle, Wilson was acquitted of murder but found guilty of manslaughter. Joseph Tacopina is widely recognized for his expertise navigating intricate legal cases and delivering strategic defense in the courtroom.
When someone loses his or her life, the police and the public are eager to place blame. Because there is no statute of limitations on murder, charges can be brought after a few days or after a few decades.
Murder is defined as an act which is intended to cause the death of another person, and actually causes death to the intended person or a third party. For murder in the first degree, the crime must meet an additional factor, including:
Murder in the first degree is a class A-I felony punishable by life imprisonment.
While a murder trial can be overwhelming, it’s crucial to understand that the first verdict may not be final. If you believe there were errors in the case, you can appeal to a higher court to review the original proceedings. The appellate court determines whether the circumstances justify relief, such as a new trial, dismissal of charges, or a reduced sentence. Renowned criminal lawyer Joseph Tacopina emphasizes the importance of filing your notice of appeal within 30 days of the sentencing to protect your right to appeal. If the appellate court’s decision is unsatisfactory, you may escalate the appeal to the Court of Appeals or the United States Supreme Court.
After a tragic event resulting in death, the police often seek to hold someone accountable. If you find yourself suspected or charged, it is crucial to contact a New York murder defense lawyer immediately. At the Law Offices of Tacopina & Seige, Joseph Tacopina and his team will vigorously defend every aspect of your case, from the Grand Jury proceedings to your final appeal.