Minnesota Murder, Homicide, and Manslaughter Attorneys

When you're facing a murder, homicide, or manslaughter charge in Minnesota, nothing is more important than experienced, strategic legal representation. These are among the most serious charges in the criminal justice system, often carrying the possibility of life in prison and permanent life-altering consequences. At Johnson Erickson Law, we bring unmatched experience to these high-stakes cases — from initial investigation to trial, and through appeal.

Our team has successfully handled murder cases at every level of the system. Pete Johnson, a former felony prosecutor in Washington and Hennepin Counties, has prosecuted and defended some of Minnesota’s most serious and complex homicide cases. He has also argued homicide cases before the Minnesota Court of Appeals and the Minnesota Supreme Court. A district court judge recently described Pete as “an expert” in the application of Minnesota’s revised Aiding and Abetting Felony Murder law — a recognition that reflects not only legal knowledge, but courtroom credibility and strategic insight.

Understanding the Charges

Minnesota law recognizes multiple levels of criminal homicide, including:

• First-Degree Murder – Premeditated killing or a death occurring during certain serious felonies; carries a mandatory life sentence.

• Second-Degree Murder – Includes intentional killings without premeditation and felony murder without intent to kill.

• Third-Degree Murder – Often charged in cases involving reckless behavior or drug distribution resulting in death.

• Manslaughter (First and Second Degree) – Involves killings that occur in the heat of passion, through negligence, or while committing a misdemeanor.

Each type of homicide charge requires the state to prove very specific elements, including intent, causation, and in some cases, a particular mental state or level of recklessness.

Common Defenses in Homicide Cases

Homicide cases are fact-intensive and legally complex. Our firm evaluates every possible defense strategy, including:

• Self-Defense or Defense of Others – Justifiable use of deadly force may be a complete defense if you reasonably feared great bodily harm or death.

• Lack of Intent or Premeditation – Challenging the state’s ability to prove you intended the outcome or acted with premeditation can be key to a reduced charge or dismissal.

• Causation and Forensic Challenges – We work with medical and forensic experts to question the alleged cause of death or timeline of events.

• False Accusations and Witness Credibility – In many cases, accusations are based on unreliable or incentivized witnesses. Our trial lawyers know how to cross-examine and expose inconsistencies.

• Aiding and Abetting Defenses – Minnesota’s recent changes to the Felony Murder doctrine open the door for new defenses and appeals. We are leaders in litigating these complex accomplice liability cases.

Trusted Trial Lawyers for the Most Serious Cases

When your life and liberty are on the line, you need a team that knows how to fight and win. Johnson Erickson Law brings battle-tested trial skills and deep knowledge of Minnesota homicide law to your defense. If you or a loved one is facing a murder, manslaughter, or homicide charge, contact us today for a confidential consultation.