Skip to Content
Experienced Nashville Defense Firm
Top
Attempted Murder A Team Who Will Tenaciously Defend You Every Step of the Way

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.

Continue Reading Read Less

Our Clients Say It Best

Read Our Client Testimonials

At May McKinney, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.

    "Best Case Scenario"
    If you’re looking for a firm who knows how to handle a DUI/DWI case, give Shyanne a call.
    - Satisfied Client
    "We Owe You"
    We owe you so much for helping us and our son. We appreciate your legal expertise and support you gave our son this April.
    - Melissa & Alan
    "Truly Grateful"
    There are precious times in our lives when we are blessed with people who make a difference.
    - Nathan
    "Appreciative of Your Kindness"
    I feel very blessed and appreciative for your kindness.
    - Audrey
    "Rob and his team did a fantastic job on my case... I would definitely use his services again."
    Rob and his team did a fantastic job on my case... I would definitely use his services again.
    - Larry P.
    "Made a Horrible Situation Bearable"

    Shyanne immediately knew what to do and handled my case with professionalism and expertise. She made a horrible situation bearable and stayed with me throughout the process.

    - Satisfied Client
    "It's a Comfort to Have You On My Side"

    I just wanted to say thank you for everything you have been doing for me. It's comforting to know I've got you on my side. You're the BEST!!

    P.S. — I really can't thank you enough.

    - R.
    "You Have Proven Yourself"
    Thanks once more for your ability to get it reduced and if I ever need legal assistance in the future, you have proven yourself to me.
    - A.W.
  • "AV Preeminent" by Martindale Hubble
  • Super Lawyers
  • The Best Lawyers In America
  • Best 101 Lawyers in Tennessee by Nashville Business Journal
  • Nashville's Top Lawyers by The Tennessean
  • Nashville Bar Association
  • Nashville Bar Foundation
  • Tennessee Bar Association

Get In Touch Today

Schedule Your Free Strategy Session
  • Please enter your first name.
  • Please enter your last name.
  • Please enter your phone number.
    This isn't a valid phone number.
  • Please enter your email address.
    This isn't a valid email address.
  • Please enter your county.
  • Please enter your response.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please enter a message.
  • By submitting, you agree to receive text messages from May McKinney at the number provided, including those related to your inquiry, follow-ups, and review requests, via automated technology. Consent is not a condition of purchase. Msg & data rates may apply. Msg frequency may vary. Reply STOP to cancel or HELP for assistance. Acceptable Use Policy

Why Choose May McKinney?

A Firm Committed to You, Your Case & Your Future
  • Nearly 80 Years of Combined Experience
    Our accomplished attorneys bring almost eight decades of combined criminal defense experience.
  • Educated In Our Field
    Our team believes in ongoing training in the criminal defense field. Our attorneys are educated in the latest forensic science technology and Attorney Riddle is Trauma Certified.
  • A Team Approach
    Our attorneys work each case as a unit, which is extremely beneficial to our clients. No matter the case size, it's integral to get the experience and knowledge of a team.
  • An Aggressive Defense
    When you choose May McKinney, you are choosing a team that will fight tooth and nail for your rights, your freedom, and your future.