Being charged with murder or homicide in Pennsylvania is among the most serious legal situations anyone can face. A conviction can mean life in prison—or even the death penalty—and the prosecution will fight relentlessly to secure a conviction.
If you’ve been questioned, arrested, or charged with murder in the Pittsburgh area, it’s critical to act immediately. You need a skilled and experienced Pittsburgh murder defense attorney who knows how to build a powerful case, challenge evidence, and protect your rights at every stage.
At Worgul, Sarna & Ness, Criminal Defense Attorneys, LLC, our violent crime attorneys have extensive experience defending clients accused of murder, manslaughter, and violent crimes in both state and federal courts. We work swiftly to secure your release, investigate the case against you, and fight for your freedom.
Call (412) 281-2146 or email advice@pittsburghcriminalattorney.com for a free, confidential consultation — available 24/7.
Understanding Murder Charges in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, murder is divided into three degrees, each defined by the intent, circumstances, and severity of the act. The penalties are among the harshest under state law, and the distinction between degrees can mean the difference between decades in prison or a life sentence.
First-Degree Murder
Murder in the first degree is the most serious crime in Pennsylvania. It means that someone intentionally and with malice killed another person. To be convicted of murder in the first degree, the prosecution must prove the killing was intentional and premeditated.
Someone found guilty of first-degree murder can face the death penalty or life in prison. However, Pennsylvania usually does not use the death penalty to punish those convicted.
Second-Degree Murder
Murder in the second degree means that someone committed a murder that was not planned and that was committed while the defendant was a principal or accomplice in the perpetration of another felony, such as robbery or rape.
Those taking part in the crime are charged with murder in the second degree regardless of whether or not they were the ones who actually committed the murder. For example, if two people rob a bank and one of them shoots and kills a teller, both will be charged equally for the murder.
A person found guilty of murder in the second degree will face life in prison.
Third-Degree Murder
Murder in the third degree means that you committed a murder in a way that was not planned and intentional, and additionally was not committed during the course of another felony.
Someone found guilty can face up to 40 years in prison.
Conspiracy to Commit Murder
Criminal conspiracy to commit murder means two or more people intended and conspired to murder someone else, planned the murder, committed or attempted to commit the murder, or hired another person to commit the murder.
In Pennsylvania, even if you played a small role in the conspiracy, you will be charged at the same level as the person who actually committed or tried to commit the killing.
Building a Strong Defense in a Murder Case
Every murder case is unique, and your defense strategy must be tailored to the specific facts, evidence, and circumstances involved.
Our Pittsburgh murder defense lawyers conduct a thorough investigation to uncover weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, including:
- Challenging illegal searches, seizures, or arrests
- Suppressing evidence obtained in violation of your rights
- Questioning forensic or DNA evidence for errors or contamination
- Discrediting unreliable witness statements or coerced confessions
- Exploring self-defense, defense of others, or mistaken identity
We also represent clients at bail hearings, pretrial motions, and throughout trial proceedings. In some cases, we may negotiate for reduced charges, dismissals, or alternative sentencing options when appropriate.
Our goal is always the same: to protect your freedom and achieve the best possible outcome in a highly complex and emotionally charged legal process.
Why Choose Worgul, Sarna & Ness for Your Defense
Facing a murder charge requires more than just a criminal lawyer, it demands a defense team with the experience, skill, and resolve to handle life-or-death cases. At Worgul, Sarna & Ness, we bring decades of courtroom experience, strategic insight, and relentless advocacy to every case.
We know how prosecutors build their cases and how to dismantle them. Our firm’s reputation for thorough preparation and aggressive defense has earned us the respect of judges, juries, and clients across Western Pennsylvania.
When everything is on the line, you need a Pittsburgh murder attorney who will fight for you without hesitation.
Contact a Pittsburgh Murder Defense Lawyer Today
If you or someone you love has been charged with or is under investigation for murder, do not wait to seek legal representation. Your future and freedom are at stake.
The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can begin building a defense, protecting your rights, and advocating on your behalf.
Call (412) 281-2146 or email advice@pittsburghcriminalattorney.com to speak with a Pittsburgh murder defense attorney at Worgul, Sarna & Ness.
We’re available 24/7 to help you or your loved one during this critical time.
