Maryland Homicide Lawyer

Experienced Attorneys Ready to Fight for You

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 614 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Charlie Novoa 
 September 2, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Esteban Gergely and his whole team are the best in the game hands down. His knowledge of the law, dedication to his clients and passion to win are simply unmatched. His staff are all super friendly, quick and thorough. Kelly was amazing through the whole process, the communication was above and beyond. Glenda is also someone I’ve worked with and she was nothing but pleasant as well. This team will give you a sense of confront regardless on the situation. When i first approached Esteban i was a mess but his first words were “relax, go on about your life as you normally would, leave the stresses of the case up to me, i got you” and he delivered. Not only did i have peace of mind the whole time but even if we hit any obstacles he overcame each one. Hired him on multiple occasions and will continue to do so if ever needed.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Wotzbeli Lopez 
 August 27, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excelente servicio
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Dawn Wong 
 August 21, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I cannot say enough wonderful things about Krum, Gergely and Oates, LLC. From the very beginning, I felt that I was in capable, caring, and dedicated hands. Everyone at the firm was professional, compassionate, responsive, and genuinely invested in my case.

David Krum went above and beyond to advocate for me and guide me through an incredibly difficult and emotional process. His knowledge, dedication, and persistence gave me confidence when I needed it most. I always felt that my best interests were truly his priority.

I am incredibly grateful for the hard work and commitment of the entire team and for the outcome they helped me achieve. After everything I went through, having an exceptional legal team in my corner made all the difference.

I highly recommend Krum, Gergely and Oates, LLC to anyone looking for attorneys who are knowledgeable, dedicated, compassionate, and truly committed to their clients.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Maikol Vicente 
 August 21, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excelente servicio
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Vensh Kataria 
 August 17, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had an excellent experience working with my lawyer David Krum and would highly recommend him. From the very beginning, he was professional, knowledgeable, and attentive. He took the time to explain every step of my case clearly, kept me informed throughout the entire process.

What I appreciated most was how confident and reassured I felt having him represent me. He was responsive, thorough, and genuinely seemed to care about achieving the best possible outcome for my case. His guidance made what could have been a very stressful experience feel much more manageable.

I’m extremely grateful for his hard work, dedication, and support.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   keilyn miranda 
 August 14, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I’m truly grateful for everything this law office did throughout the case. From the beginning, they were professional, attentive, and genuinely caring. They took the time to explain things, answered every question, and kept us informed throughout the process. You could tell they really cared about helping and doing their best for their client. We felt supported and confident having them on our side. I would highly recommend this office to anyone looking for an attorney who is knowledgeable, professional, and truly cares about their clients!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Levi Raymundo 
 August 13, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Primera mente agradecido con Dios y después con mi abogado  xq  me ademostrado con echos   xq e ganado mi caso  con el  selos recomiendo  a cualquier persona   gracias abogado   x todo solo agradezco  de todo corazón Dios me lo vendiga
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Jordan Brooke 
 August 13, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a great experience working with the team at KGO. They made sure to keep an open line of communication and made sure I was informed about my case at every step of the way. Esteban was very reassuring and professional and ensured the best possible outcome when representing me in court. Truly a wonderful team!

Being charged with homicide or manslaughter is one of the most serious crimes you can face in Maryland. These crimes, which include first-degree murder, second-degree murder, and manslaughter, are classified as felonies and carry severe penalties—ranging from hefty fines and lengthy prison sentences to life imprisonment without parole. If you’re facing such a charge, securing the expertise of a skilled Maryland homicide lawyer from The Law Offices of Krum, Gergely, & Oates is essential. Our team will carefully review your case and build the most vigorous defense possible to protect your future.

Facing homicide or manslaughter charges can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. The experienced criminal defense attorneys at The Law Offices of Krum, Gergely, & Oates are here to help. Contact us today for a consultation with a manslaughter attorney.

Maryland Murder and Manslaughter Laws

Homicide, manslaughter, and related offenses are governed under Title 2, Sections 1 to 5 of Maryland’s Criminal Law Code. A conviction for murder or a similar crime in Maryland could lead to life imprisonment and a permanent felony record. Having a felony—especially from a violent crime—can make it incredibly difficult to secure housing or employment later in life. With the support of a seasoned attorney from The Law Offices of Krum, Gergely, & Oates, you can challenge these charges head-on, potentially reducing your penalties or even getting your case dismissed.

First-Degree Murder

First-degree murder, outlined in Maryland Criminal Law Code § 2-201, involves a willful, premeditated, and deliberate killing. It can include acts committed through methods like poisoning, arson, burglary, carjacking, kidnapping, rape, robbery, or the use of destructive devices, among others. Penalties under § 2-201(b) include a felony conviction and life imprisonment—either with or without the chance of parole. Until 2013, Maryland allowed the death penalty. Still, it was abolished by Governor Martin O’Malley on May 2, 2013, though existing death sentences were not retroactively changed. Whether the state seeks life with or without parole depends on the details of your case.

Is Life Without Parole Likely?

Under Maryland Criminal Law Code § 2-203, life imprisonment without parole for first-degree murder requires the prosecution to notify the defendant in writing at least 30 days before trial of their intent to pursue this sentence. Per § 2-304, a jury must unanimously agree on this punishment. If even one juror disagrees, the sentence becomes life with the possibility of parole. That is why having a trusted attorney from a The Law Offices of Krum, Gergely, & Oates is critical—even if you’re convicted, skilled representation can influence the outcome.

Attempted First-Degree Murder

Attempted first-degree murder, covered by § 2-205, is a felony punishable by up to life in prison. It applies to anyone who tries but fails to commit a deliberate and premeditated killing.

Second-Degree Murder

Defined under § 2-204, second-degree murder includes killings that aren’t premeditated, willful, or deliberate—essentially any murder that doesn’t meet the criteria for first-degree murder. This serious crime can lead to a prison sentence of up to 40 years per § 2-204(b).

Attempted Second-Degree Murder

Per § 2-206, attempted second-degree murder is a felony punishable by up to 30 years in prison. Distinguishing this from aggravated assault can be legally complex, making it vital to have a knowledgeable homicide lawyer from The Law Offices of Krum, Gergely, & Oates by your side.

Manslaughter

Manslaughter, addressed in § 2-207, involves killing someone without malice aforethought—unlike murder, which requires intent. For instance, accidentally firing a gun and killing someone could lead to a manslaughter charge. Penalties under § 2-207(a) include a felony conviction, up to 10 years in prison, or up to 2 years in a local jail with a fine of up to $500—depending on the case and your defense. Notably, § 2-207(b) clarifies that spousal adultery doesn’t reduce a killing from murder to manslaughter, even if provoked by catching a spouse in the act.

Manslaughter by Vehicle or Vessel

Under § 2-209, causing death through grossly negligent operation of a vehicle or vessel (like a car or boat) is a felony manslaughter charge. Penalties per § 2-209(d) include up to 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $5,000, or both, provided the act was unintentional but reckless.

Charging Documents

Section § 2-208 outlines the requirements for murder and manslaughter indictments. The document must state that the defendant “feloniously killed” the victim. Still, it doesn’t need to specify how the killing occurred.

How The KGO Law Firm Can Help

Being charged with first-degree murder, second-degree murder, or manslaughter in Maryland is a life-altering event. You shouldn’t face it alone or with an inexperienced attorney. At The Law Offices of Krum, Gergely, & Oates, our reputable Maryland homicide lawyers have a history of winning cases. We’ll fight tirelessly to secure the best possible outcome—whether that’s reducing your charges, dismissing your case, or minimizing penalties. Contact us today to discuss your case with confidence.