Death Penalty Trial Experience
Attorney Conville has defended a capital murder case through trial. When the stakes are highest, you need an attorney who has stood in that courtroom before.
Criminal defense
Homicide & Death Penalty Defense in Pennsylvania
A homicide charge is the most serious accusation the criminal justice system can bring. When your life or your freedom is on the line, you need attorneys who have been in that courtroom before. Dutko & Chwiecko Trial Attorneys have the experience to defend the most serious charges in Pennsylvania.
Thorough Investigation
Homicide cases require an independent investigation. We work with investigators and experts to challenge the prosecution's evidence and develop the full picture of what happened.
From Arrest Through Appeal
We represent clients at every stage — from the initial arrest and preliminary hearing through trial, sentencing, and post-conviction relief if needed.
Homicide Charges We Defend
First-Degree Murder
First-degree murder requires proof of specific intent to kill. We challenge the evidence of intent, the identification of the perpetrator, and every element of the prosecution's case.
Second-Degree Murder (Felony Murder)
Felony murder charges can be filed against participants in a felony even when they did not personally cause a death. We challenge the underlying felony and the application of the felony murder rule.
Third-Degree Murder
Third-degree murder charges require proof of malice. We challenge the evidence of malice and explore defenses including heat of passion and self-defense.
Voluntary Manslaughter
Voluntary manslaughter charges often arise from heat-of-passion situations. We present the full context of the incident and challenge the prosecution's characterization of the facts.
Involuntary Manslaughter
Involuntary manslaughter charges require proof of reckless or grossly negligent conduct. We challenge the evidence of the required mental state and the causation of death.
Capital Murder / Death Penalty Cases
Pennsylvania capital cases require specialized experience. Attorney Conville has defended a death penalty case through trial and understands the unique demands of capital defense.
Vehicular Homicide
Homicide by vehicle charges often arise from DUI accidents. We challenge the evidence of impairment, the causation of the accident, and every element of the charge.
Conspiracy to Commit Murder
Conspiracy charges can be filed against individuals who did not personally commit the killing. We challenge the evidence of agreement and the scope of the alleged conspiracy.
Experience That Matters When Everything Is at Stake
Homicide cases are unlike any other criminal matter. The investigation is more intensive, the evidence is more complex, and the consequences of a conviction — life in prison or, in capital cases, the death penalty — are irreversible. You need attorneys who have been through this before.
Attorney Conville has over 30 years of criminal defense experience with a focus on serious felonies, including a death penalty trial. He has defended major felony and misdemeanor cases throughout his career and brings that depth of experience to every homicide defense.
Attorney Chwiecko prosecuted homicide cases as a Berks County ADA before moving to criminal defense. He knows how the prosecution builds a homicide case — the forensic evidence, the witness strategy, the timeline reconstruction — and he knows how to take it apart.
Facing a Homicide Charge? Call Us Immediately.
In a homicide case, every hour matters. Evidence is collected, witnesses are interviewed, and the prosecution begins building its case from the moment of arrest. Contact us now.