Tennessee Criminal Lawyer Blog

Under present law, first degree murder in Tennessee is:
• A premeditated and intentional killing of another;
• A killing of another committed in the perpetration of or attempt to perpetrate any first degree murder, act of terrorism, arson, rape, robbery, burglary, theft, kidnapping, aggravated child abuse, aggravated child neglect, rape of a child, aggravated rape of a child or aircraft piracy; or
• A killing of another committed as the result of the unlawful throwing, placing or discharging of a destructive device or bomb.

Senate Bill 1093 expands first degree murder as homicide crimes in Tennessee by including within the actions that constitute first degree murder the killing of another while committing domestic abuse if there was a past pattern of abuse upon the victim or another family or household member and the death occurs under circumstances manifesting an extreme indifference to human life.

Under Tennessee domestic abuse law, domestic abuse victims include:
• Adults or minors who are current or former spouses;
• Adults or minors who live together or who have lived together;
• Adults or minors who are dating or who have dated or who have or had a sexual relationship,
• Adults or minors related by blood or adoption;
• Adults or minors who are related or were formerly related by marriage.

To constitute extreme indifference to human life, the defendant’s conduct must be so lacking in concern for the lives of others that it warrants the same criminal liability as if the crime was done for the purpose of taking life.

If charged with first degree murder, you are facing the most severe punishments available under Tennessee law. Sentences can include life in prison or even the death penalty. This is why you will want a skilled attorney who has had considerable success in defending people who have been accused of this most serious crime. Call the experienced Knoxville assault attorneys today at Baker Associates for a free and comprehensive case evaluation.