Arkansas Murder Lawyers
A division of Lemley DWI & Criminal Defense Lawyers
When you are charged with the most serious crime in Arkansas, you need a defense team that takes it just as seriously. We defend capital, first-degree, and second-degree murder cases statewide.
It Takes the Best to Beat the Best.
Murder prosecutions are among the most complex and aggressively litigated cases in the criminal justice system. They require meticulous investigation, strategic litigation, and relentless advocacy. The State brings in their best prosecutors and expert witnesses. It takes the best to beat the best.
Arkansas Homicide Charges We Defend
From capital murder to negligent homicide, every charge under Arkansas Code Title 5, Chapter 10 carries life-altering consequences. We defend them all.
Capital Murder
Death penalty & life without parole defense
First Degree Murder
Premeditated homicide charges
Second Degree Murder
Knowing or extreme indifference killings
Manslaughter
Heat-of-passion and reckless homicide
Negligent Homicide
DUI fatalities & negligent deaths
Death by Delivery of Drugs
Fentanyl & overdose homicide charges
Why Arkansans Trust Us With Their Lives
Trial-Ready Defense
We prepare every case for trial from day one. Prosecutors know it — and it changes how they negotiate.
Proven Courtroom Record
Two decades of jury verdicts, dismissals, and reductions in serious felony cases.
Statewide Reach
We handle homicide cases across Arkansas — from Little Rock to Jonesboro and points in between.
Outcomes That Speak For Themselves
Every case is unique and past results don't guarantee future outcomes. These are real outcomes obtained for real Arkansans.
A Defense Strategy Built For Trial
Confidential Consult
Free, private review of the charges and police narrative.
Independent Investigation
Our investigators rebuild the scene, the witnesses, and the timeline.
Pre-Trial Motions
Suppress illegal evidence, attack the indictment, exclude prejudicial proof.
Trial or Resolution
Negotiate from strength — or take the case to a jury and win.
Arkansas Homicide Penalties
Defenses to Murder Charges
Self-Defense / Justification
Arkansas's no-duty-to-retreat law can justify the use of deadly force when reasonably believed necessary.
Mistaken Identity
Faulty eyewitness ID and bad forensics put innocent people at murder scenes every year.
Lack of Intent
Without proof of mental state, a murder charge collapses to a lesser-included offense.
Extreme Emotional Disturbance
Reduces what would otherwise be murder to manslaughter under § 5-10-104.
Suppression of Evidence
Illegal searches, coerced confessions, and Miranda violations can gut the State's case.
Alibi
When you weren't there, we prove it — with records, witnesses, and digital evidence.
Charged Because of What Someone Else Did?
Under Arkansas accomplice-liability law, you can face capital or first-degree murder charges even if you never harmed anyone — simply for being present during an underlying felony. But Arkansas courts are clear: mere presence, mere knowledge, and mere association are not enough.
The State must prove you purposely aided or encouraged the offense — and shared the mental state for the crime charged. That is a defense we know how to mount.
Accomplice Liability DefenseBeing at the scene is not enough.
Knowing about a crime is not aiding it.
Friendship is not complicity.
From the Moment We Are Retained
From the moment we are retained, we begin a comprehensive review of every aspect of the case. We examine police reports, witness statements, forensic evidence, digital records, surveillance footage, and expert opinions. We challenge unreliable testimony, investigate alternative suspects, scrutinize forensic methods, and hold law enforcement accountable when constitutional violations occur.
We represent clients facing charges ranging from manslaughter to capital murder and understand the life-changing consequences that accompany these allegations. Our attorneys are experienced in handling complex jury trials, negotiating with prosecutors, litigating pretrial motions, and presenting compelling defenses in court.
We have assembled a team of former federal and state prosecutors and police officers. Other lawyers can handle the small cases. It takes the best to defend a murder case.
"If you or a loved one is facing a murder charge, contact our office for a confidential consultation. The decisions made in the early stages of a case can have a profound impact on the outcome. Let our experience, preparation, and dedication work for you when the stakes are highest."
Real People. Real Outcomes.
"Kevin saw the case for what it was — not what the police claimed. My capital charge was reduced before trial."
"I was looking at life. The jury came back not guilty in under three hours. I owe him my freedom."
"Every call, every question answered. He never made me feel like a number. The charges were dismissed."
What Families Ask First
If your question isn't here, call us. We answer every call personally.
Is the consultation really free?
Yes. The initial case review with a defense attorney is free, completely confidential, and carries no obligation.
Can you visit a loved one in jail?
Yes. We make jail and detention visits across Arkansas, often within 24 hours of being retained.
What if charges haven't been filed yet?
Pre-charge representation is often the most important stage. We can intervene with detectives and the prosecutor's office before an arrest.
Do you handle cases outside Little Rock?
Yes. We defend homicide cases in every Arkansas county.
Will my case go to trial?
Many cases resolve through suppression motions, dismissals, or favorable pleas — but we prepare every case as if it will.
Where We Defend Murder Cases
For murder cases, we cover most of the state of Arkansas. Major cities include Little Rock, North Little Rock, Conway, Benton, Jonesboro, and Pine Bluff.
Charged With Murder in Arkansas? Call Now.
Every hour matters. Our staff is ready to take your call and coordinate a free, confidential case review with a defense attorney.
Tell Us What Happened
Every minute matters in a murder investigation. Submit your details and a staff member will reach out promptly to schedule your attorney consultation.