Facing criminal charges can be frightening, especially when the penalty involves a life sentence behind bars. However, not all life sentences are the same in Missouri. If you’ve been charged with a crime that could result in a life sentence in Missouri, you should seek help from an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately.
What Is a Life Sentence in Missouri?
Many people hear the phrase “life sentence” and think that means they face legal consequences that will place them behind bars for the rest of their lives. However, that is not necessarily the case in Missouri. Technically, a life sentence in Missouri does not necessarily have to last the rest of someone’s life.
- Life sentence with eligibility for parole – Some offenses carry a penalty commonly referred to as a life sentence with the possibility of parole. This phrase means that a convicted individual must serve a portion of their prison sentence before they become eligible for parole. Missouri law can impose this penalty on convicted offenders if the individual is convicted of a class A felony offense.
- Life sentence without parole – Particularly malicious or violent class A felony offenders can face life imprisonment without the possibility of parole and potentially the death penalty. Federal cases can also impose a life sentence without the possibility of parole, meaning that a convicted offender can expect to spend the rest of their life in prison until they pass away.
Parole eligibility depends on the nature and severity of the criminal offense. The law states that the penalty for a class A felony is “a term of years not less than ten years and not to exceed thirty years, or life imprisonment.” When a person becomes eligible for parole depends on the underlying offense and whether they have been given multiple life sentences. Additionally, federal law prohibits minors from being sentenced to life without the possibility of parole.
Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney You Can Trust
You need immediate and aggressive criminal representation if you face serious criminal charges.
Contact Travis Noble, P.C., today for free consultation with our experienced Missouri criminal defense attorneys with about your case.
We can explain the possible outcomes and potential sentences you might face, as well as advise you on defense strategies that may be available to you. The sooner you reach out, the sooner we can start building a strong defense on your behalf.