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Attempted Murder Charges in Nashville, TN

Contact a Nashville Attempted Murder Attorney Immediately

If you have been charged with a crime such as attempted murder, remember this: the outcome of your case will hinge on a prosecutor's ability to prove your intent. Does the prosecution have enough true insight into your thoughts to demonstrate that your actions were premeditated? A successful outcome in your case may mean achieving a downgrading of the charges against you. Perhaps your actions could justify charges of aggravated assault — and even then, it is up to the prosecution to prove those charges beyond a shadow of a doubt.

Why Choose Our Attempted Murder Lawyers

In the face of attempted murder charges, nothing short of the best and most tenacious defense representation will do. That is the level of counsel delivered at May McKinney. Attempted murders are complex cases. Not only do our Nashville defense attorneys have more than 80 years of combined experience, but they stop at nothing to pursue the best possible outcome in every case they touch. If you need help navigating your attempted murder sentence, our Nashville murder lawyer is ready to help!

Call (615) 265-6383 or contact us online to find out how our Nashville attempted murder lawyers can help you. We serve clients in Nashville, Franklin, Mount Juliet, Brentwood, and throughout Tennessee.

Attempted Murder Definition

Attempted murder is the unsuccessful act of killing another person. To be convicted of attempted murder, a demonstration of intent to murder must be present, the perpetrator attempted to murder yet failed.

Elements of Attempted Murder

There are two elements required in attempted murder:

  • Offender took action toward killing a person (direct action)
  • Offender's act was intended to kill a person (intent to kill)

What is Considered Attempted Murder?

To be considered attempted murder, there must be the presence of a "direct action." This means merely preparing or planning to kill someone is not sufficient to satisfy the elements of attempted murder. Additionally, there must be "intent to kill" present in attempted murder. Causing bodily harm is not sufficient proof of attempted murder unless evidence of actual intent to kill is there.

Attempted Murder Sentence in Tennessee

How many years can you get for attempted murder? Typically, attempted murder is charged in degrees. These include:

  • First-degree attempted murder: requires premeditation or a willful act
    • Often a life sentence; at least 10 years in prison
    • Possible parole
  • Second-degree attempted murder: any other act that is not deliberate or planned
    • 5 - 15 years in prison, depending on whether serious injury was inflicted
    • Prior criminal record will enhance the sentence

To learn more about attempted first-degree murder in Tennessee or second-degree attempted murder, contact our murder defense attorneys in Nashville.

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    I can’t thank Rob Mckinney enough for all of his help with my case . I had never been in trouble before, & was very leery on paying for a lawyer, but from the moment I hired them, until my case was over, I never regretted my decision to have them represent me. Both Rob & Shyanne took every one of my phone calls, & answered every question that I ever could possibly come up. I was an emotional mess from the get go, and probably asked 1000 more questions than necessary, but they took the time to go through absolutely everything with me, and never made me feel like I was wasting their time or that I was inferior to them. Their knowledge, wisdom and guidance was so comforting & helped me with the stress of the legal process. My case took 2 years & 13 court appearances, so it was not an easy journey, but they made me feel at ease the entire time, & in the end, the charges were dropped. Thank you ! - Lisa F (aka super satisfied client)
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    I cannot speak highly enough of Savannah and her incredible team. From the very start, she demonstrated expert care, attentiveness, and a true dedication to my case. Her professionalism and knowledge made the entire process smooth, and she took the time to ensure I understood every step along the way. What truly sets Savannah apart is her compassion and commitment. She and her staff were always responsive, thorough, and supportive, making me feel confident that my case was in the best hands. Their attention to detail and ability to navigate complex situations with ease made all the difference. I highly recommend Savannah and her team to anyone in need of expert legal representation. They not only fight for you but genuinely care about your well-being. Thank you for everything!
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    Mr. McKinney assisted my daughter with two separate cases. Both were handled very professionally and had very positive outcomes. He was always helpful when meetings were held and assisted in making this extremely stressful time easier for her. I would recommend his firm to anyone who needs the assistance of very capable, professional, caring attorneys.
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    I seriously can’t give this guy enough credit! I’ve made a few bad choices in my lifetime before I got it together and I’ve had rob mckinney represent me for most of it. No doubt at all that he’s the best man for the job. He’s got me the best possible outcome and always went above and beyond for me every step of the way. Rob is such a genuine person and truly cares! If you’re looking for a great lawyer look no further mr. McKinney is your guy!
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