Assault with Intent to Murder

Ann Arbor Attorneys Defending People Accused of Violent Crimes

Assault with intent to murder is one of the gravest accusations a person can face in Michigan’s criminal justice system, as it signals that prosecutors not only believe that you assaulted someone but that you did so with the intent to take their life. A conviction can mean decades in prison, a permanent criminal record, and a lifetime of consequences that extend far beyond the courtroom. If you are accused of assault with intent to murder, it is in your best interest to talk to an attorney about your potential defenses. Attorney Sam Bernstein of ArborYpsi Law is an assertive Ann Arbor criminal defense lawyer with the knowledge and skills needed to help you protect your interests, and if you hire him, he will work tirelessly to help you seek the best legal outcome possible.

Assault with Intent to Murder Under Michigan Law

Under Michigan law, assault with intent to murder is defined as an assault committed with the specific intent to kill another person. Unlike other forms of assault, which may involve an intent to injure or frighten, this crime requires proof of an intent to cause death. To convict someone of this offense, the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant committed an assault and that the defendant intended to kill the victim at the time of the assault. In some cases, they must also show that the circumstances did not justify or excuse the conduct, such as through lawful self-defense. These elements are not simple to prove, and the state often relies on circumstantial evidence, such as the type of weapon allegedly used, the nature of the injuries, statements made by the accused, or the circumstances surrounding the altercation.

The penalties for a conviction are harsh. Assault with intent to murder is punishable by any term of years up to life in prison. This means a judge could impose a lengthy sentence that may effectively keep a person incarcerated for the rest of their life. Because it is classified as a life offense, it has additional implications under Michigan’s sentencing guidelines and parole system, further reducing the chance of early release. In addition to prison time, a conviction results in a permanent criminal record, the loss of civil rights such as firearm ownership, and long-lasting barriers to employment, housing, and community relationships.

Potential Defenses to Assault with Intent to Murder

Even when the charge is severe, the law requires prosecutors to prove each element of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. A defense lawyer can carefully examine the evidence and expose weaknesses in the state’s case. One of the most powerful defenses is to challenge intent. If the evidence suggests that the accused intended only to injure or scare the alleged victim rather than to kill, the charge may not stand, or it may be reduced to a lesser assault offense.

Self-defense is another recognized defense under Michigan law. If a person reasonably believed that they faced imminent danger of death or great bodily harm, and the force used was necessary to protect themselves, the law may justify their actions. Other defenses include mistaken identity, unreliable or contradictory witness testimony, and violations of constitutional rights. For example, if police obtained evidence through an unlawful search or coerced a statement from the accused, that evidence may be suppressed at trial. Each case requires a strategy tailored to the facts, and an analysis of every angle to pursue the strongest defense possible.

Speak with an Experienced Ann Arbor Criminal Defense Lawyer

The consequences of a conviction for assault with intent to murder are among the most severe in Michigan law. However, being charged is not the same as being convicted.  If you are charged with assault with intent to murder, you should speak to an attorney as soon as possible. Sam Bernstein of ArborYpsi Law is an experienced Ann Arbor criminal defense lawyer who understands how to navigate these high-stakes cases, and if you hire him, he will advocate tirelessly on your behalf. Our office is located in Ann Arbor, and we proudly represent clients throughout Michigan, including those in Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti, East Lansing, Brighton, Pinckney, Howell, Canton, Plymouth, Novi, Northville, and cities throughout Washtenaw, Wayne, Oakland, Livingston, Jackson, Lenawee, and Monroe Counties. Contact ArborYpsi Law today by calling (734) 883-9584 or using our online form to schedule a confidential consultation.