
Attempted Murder Charges in Nashville, TN
Contact a Nashville Attempted Murder Attorney Immediately
If you have been charged with a crime such as attempted murder, remember this: the outcome of your case will hinge on a prosecutor's ability to prove your intent. Does the prosecution have enough true insight into your thoughts to demonstrate that your actions were premeditated? A successful outcome in your case may mean achieving a downgrading of the charges against you. Perhaps your actions could justify charges of aggravated assault — and even then, it is up to the prosecution to prove those charges beyond a shadow of a doubt.
Why Choose Our Attempted Murder Lawyers
In the face of attempted murder charges, nothing short of the best and most tenacious defense representation will do. That is the level of counsel delivered at May McKinney. Attempted murders are complex cases. Not only do our Nashville defense attorneys have more than 80 years of combined experience, but they stop at nothing to pursue the best possible outcome in every case they touch. If you need help navigating your attempted murder sentence, our Nashville murder lawyer is ready to help!
Call (615) 265-6383 or contact us online to find out how our Nashville attempted murder lawyers can help you. We serve clients in Nashville, Franklin, Mount Juliet, Brentwood, and throughout Tennessee.
Attempted Murder Definition
Attempted murder is the unsuccessful act of killing another person. To be convicted of attempted murder, a demonstration of intent to murder must be present, the perpetrator attempted to murder yet failed.
Elements of Attempted Murder
There are two elements required in attempted murder:
- Offender took action toward killing a person (direct action)
- Offender's act was intended to kill a person (intent to kill)
What is Considered Attempted Murder?
To be considered attempted murder, there must be the presence of a "direct action." This means merely preparing or planning to kill someone is not sufficient to satisfy the elements of attempted murder. Additionally, there must be "intent to kill" present in attempted murder. Causing bodily harm is not sufficient proof of attempted murder unless evidence of actual intent to kill is there.
Attempted Murder Sentence in Tennessee
How many years can you get for attempted murder? Typically, attempted murder is charged in degrees. These include:
- First-degree attempted murder: requires premeditation or a willful act
- Often a life sentence; at least 10 years in prison
- Possible parole
- Second-degree attempted murder: any other act that is not deliberate or planned
- 5 - 15 years in prison, depending on whether serious injury was inflicted
- Prior criminal record will enhance the sentence
To learn more about attempted first-degree murder in Tennessee or second-degree attempted murder, contact our murder defense attorneys in Nashville.


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Read Our Client Testimonials
At May & McKinney, PLLC, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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I am grateful for this level of professionalism and you would be foolish not to have her represent you.- Kyle
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The need for a criminal defense attorney typically represents a low point in one’s highlight reel. Rob’s unmatched expertise, passion and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome during troubled times makes him the best available. Grateful to him and his team.- Anonymous
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We owe you so much for helping us and our son. We appreciate your legal expertise and support you gave our son this April.- Melissa & Alan
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I would like to take this opportunity to personally thank you and your entire team. I could not be more satisfied with the outcome McKinney law produced, especially considering the circumstances. McKinney law helped me navigate and overcome difficulties that I am still astounded by. Even through these stressful times, you were there for me and my family. I will not hesitate to recommend or if ever needed have you represent me again. I will certainly let anyone I know, that you and your team are the best hands down! Thanks again, Rob! Your assistance and representation were completely amazing!
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Her recommendations on how to proceed were spot on, and we got a favorable outcome.- Satisfied Client
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Thank you for helping me to not only resolve a recent legal matter, but also pointing me in the direction of freedom from a past criminal record. I am clean and free, and I have a clear record for the first time in 12 years.- Rachel
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The case came during my senior year of college. It was the scariest moment of my entire life. I felt my career was over before it even started. I chose McKinney Law Firm because they are the Best of the Best. To have a prepared and knowledgeable defense, in a room where you feel guilty until proven innocent, is invaluable. Roger T. May's no non-sense approach was deliberate and strategic. The results of the case were better than I could have ever imagined. After the case was over, I went on to land a lucrative job, travel the world, and have had a very successful career. I truly believe McKinney Law Firm gave me a second chance at life. I am forever grateful for the team's care, urgency, persistence, and professionalism during a very difficult time. "Because I knew you, I have been changed for good." Thank you.- -Satisfied Client
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As a LEO wife, I was served with a frivolous OP from an estranged step family member. With the possibility of my husband not being able to process any firearms in our household, Mr McKinney's understanding the severity of the situation, Rob took the time to investigate and prepare for the hearing. With that said, Rob absolutely destroyed the petitioner and witnesses on the stand. It was worth the time, money and stress to see Rob in action. If the need ever arises in the future, Rob will always be our first call. You cannot go wrong putting your trust in Mr. McKinney.- Tara
