Homicide: Enhancements & Aggravating Circumstances

Homicide: Enhancements & Aggravating Circumstances

As previously discussed, DC law recognizes two types of murder offenses: First Degree Murder (FDM) and Second Degree Murder (SDM).  FDM and SDM convictions carry the highest penalties under the law and, under certain circumstances, the penalties can be enhanced to...
Heat of Passion: When Murder Becomes Manslaughter

Heat of Passion: When Murder Becomes Manslaughter

This is part II of my explanation of Washington, D.C. homicide laws and their consequences. As previously noted in part I, a Second Degree Murder (“SDM”) charge can be reduced to Voluntary Manslaughter (“VM”) when certain mitigating circumstances are present.  A...