Defending Clients Facing Murder Charges Involving Drugs or Alcohol
Elite Rhode Island Homicide Defense Attorneys for Drug & Alcohol-Related Murder Charges
When a person is accused of murder while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, the legal stakes are at their highest. Rhode Island prosecutors aggressively pursue convictions in these cases, and without the right legal defense, a conviction could mean life in prison. Our team of highly experienced Rhode Island criminal defense attorneys specializes in defending clients facing homicide charges where intoxication played a role.
Why Choose Us for Your Homicide Defense?
- Decades of Criminal Defense Experience – We have successfully defended countless clients against murder and manslaughter charges in Rhode Island courts.
- Career Defenders on Your Side – Our team of attorneys have never worked on the other side, so we have spent our entire careers picking apart the State's case and building up defense cases to present the strongest defense possible.
- Expert Witness Network – Toxicologists, forensic psychologists, and accident reconstructionists can make the difference in proving your case.
- Aggressive & Strategic Defense – We meticulously analyze every aspect of the case, from police procedures to forensic evidence, ensuring every possible defense is explored.
Understanding Drug & Alcohol-Related Homicide Charges in Rhode Island
1st Degree vs. 2nd Degree Murder Involving Intoxication
In Rhode Island, murder charges involving drugs or alcohol can be prosecuted under first-degree or second-degree murder, depending on the circumstances:
- First-Degree Murder – The prosecution must prove intent, premeditation, and malice aforethought. If the accused was under the influence but still acted with clear intent, they may face first-degree murder charges.
- Second-Degree Murder – When a homicide occurs due to reckless behavior, such as driving under the influence (DUI) or an alcohol-fueled altercation, it may be charged as second-degree murder rather than premeditated murder.
Voluntary Manslaughter: A Possible Lesser Charge
Some cases involving intoxication-related homicides can be reduced to voluntary manslaughter by demonstrating that the accused did not have intent to kill but acted in the heat of the moment.
Common Scenarios We Defend:
- DUI-Related Homicide – Fatal accidents caused by drivers under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Drug-Induced Homicide – Deaths resulting from drug overdoses where the defendant allegedly provided the substances.
- Bar Fights & Alcohol-Fueled Altercations – When an argument escalates into deadly violence under the influence.
- Accidental Shootings While Intoxicated – Cases involving negligent firearm use due to impairment.
- Drug-Psychosis & Impaired Mental State Murders – Defending individuals who were not in full control of their actions due to drug-induced psychosis.
Defenses for Murder Charges Involving Drugs or Alcohol
1. Lack of Intent
Being under the influence can impair judgment, making it difficult to prove premeditation. We use expert testimony and medical records to challenge the prosecution's case.
2. Involuntary Intoxication
If the defendant was unknowingly drugged or intoxicated against their will, we can argue lack of criminal intent.
3. Self-Defense
Alcohol and drug-related altercations often involve self-defense claims. We gather evidence to prove the accused was protecting themselves from harm.
4. Faulty Forensic Evidence & Police Misconduct
We challenge toxicology reports, unreliable witness statements, and improper police procedures that could lead to wrongful convictions.
What to Do If You Are Charged with a Murder Related to Drugs or Alcohol in Rhode Island
- Remain Silent – Do not speak to police without an attorney present.
- Contact an Experienced Homicide Attorney Immediately – Early intervention is critical in murder cases.
- Gather Evidence – Document everything you remember, including witnesses, locations, and events leading up to the incident.
- Avoid Discussing the Case – Do not post about it on social media or discuss details with anyone except your attorney.
Contact a Rhode Island Homicide Attorney Now
Facing murder charges related to intoxication is a life-altering event. You need a defense team that understands the complexities of Rhode Island homicide law and how intoxication affects criminal liability. We are ready to fight for you.
📞 Call Manosh Payette Criminal Defense Attorneys today at 401-854-7794 for a free consultation.
📍 Serving all of Rhode Island, including Providence, Kent, Washington and Newport counties.
