Being charged with attempted murder is one of the most serious felony accusations a person can face in Maryland. While no life was actually taken, the state treats an attempted murder felony nearly as severely as a completed homicide. If you or someone you care about is facing this charge, it’s critical to understand the law, the penalties, and the available defenses.
What Is an Attempted Murder Felony?
In Maryland, attempted murder is classified as a felony. It involves taking a substantial step toward killing another person with the intent to do so, even if the act falls short of causing death. The key elements prosecutors must prove are:
- Specific intent to kill – not just to injure or frighten.
- A direct action toward committing the murder (such as shooting, stabbing, or setting a deadly trap).
- Failure to complete the homicide – the victim survives.
Attempted murder is charged in degrees, similar to completed murder.
First-Degree Attempted Murder
First-degree attempted murder is the most serious version of this charge. It involves premeditation and deliberate intent to kill. Examples include planning the attack in advance or lying in wait for the victim.
Penalty: This felony carries up to life in prison, even though no one was killed. Judges and prosecutors often treat these cases nearly identically to actual murder due to the clear lethal intent.
Second-Degree Attempted Murder
Second-degree attempted murder still requires an intent to kill but lacks premeditation. This might occur during a sudden fight or emotionally charged incident where the defendant acts impulsively.
Penalty: Conviction carries up to 30 years in prison. Though it’s a step down from first-degree, it’s still a life-altering felony with severe consequences.
Is Attempted Murder Always a Felony?
Yes. In Maryland, attempted murder is always a felony, regardless of degree. It is not subject to reduction to a misdemeanor, and the charges often come with associated felony offenses like assault, use of a firearm, or attempted robbery, which can increase the stakes even further.
Common Defenses to an Attempted Murder Felony
An experienced Southern Maryland criminal lawyer may pursue several defenses depending on the facts of the case:
- Lack of intent to kill: If the prosecution cannot prove intent to kill—only intent to harm—it may be possible to reduce the charge to assault.
- Self-defense: If the defendant reasonably feared for their life and used force to protect themselves, this could be a complete defense.
- Mistaken identity: In some cases, the evidence may point to someone else as the perpetrator.
- Insufficient evidence: A strong defense may challenge the prosecution’s lack of physical evidence or reliable witnesses.
Because this is a felony charge with long-term implications—including prison time, loss of rights, and damage to your future—it is critical to develop a strong defense strategy from the outset.
Why You Need a Criminal Lawyer for an Attempted Murder Felony
Facing an attempted murder felony charge means going up against aggressive prosecutors and law enforcement who are determined to secure a conviction. You need someone just as aggressive in your corner. At Southern Maryland Criminal Defense, we know how to fight high-stakes felony charges—and we’re ready to defend your rights from the moment of arrest.
Whether you’re under investigation or already charged, early intervention by a skilled defense attorney can make all the difference. We’ve handled serious felony cases throughout Prince George’s, Charles County, St. Mary’s County, and Calvert County, and we know how to challenge the state’s case at every turn.
Accused of Attempted Murder? Don’t Wait. Contact Us Today.
If you or someone you love has been charged with an attempted murder felony in Maryland, contact Southern Maryland Criminal Defense for a confidential consultation. We’ll explain your rights, your options, and how we can start building your defense today.
