COLUMBUS HOMICIDE LAWYER
Homicide
Aggressive Defense for Murder & Manslaughter Charges in Ohio
If you’re facing a homicide charge in Ohio, everything is on the line—your freedom, your future, and in some cases, your life.
This is not a situation to “wait and see.”
I’m Nathan Akamine, a former prosecutor with more than 20 years of experience handling the most serious criminal cases in Columbus. I know how homicide cases are built—and more importantly, where they break. From day one, my focus is on protecting your rights, challenging the evidence, and building a defense designed to win.
To schedule a consultation with our firm and receive legal counsel you can trust, contact us online, or via phone at (614) 443-6818.
What Our Clients
Are Saying
Types of Homicide Charges in Ohio
Not all homicide charges are the same. The difference between them often comes down to intent, circumstances, and evidence—and those details can make or break your case.
Aggravated Murder
The most serious charge in Ohio. Often involves allegations like premeditation, murder during another felony, or targeting law enforcement.
Penalty: Life in prison or the death penalty
Murder
Purposely causing the death of another person—even without premeditation.
Penalty: 15 years to life
Voluntary Manslaughter
A killing that occurs in the heat of the moment, often tied to provocation or emotional distress.
Penalty: 3 to 11 years
Involuntary Manslaughter
Unintentional death resulting from another crime.
Penalty: Varies (typically 3 to 11 years depending on the underlying offense)
Reckless Homicide
Causing death through reckless behavior—knowing the risk but ignoring it.
Penalty: 1 to 5 years
Negligent Homicide
Death caused by failure to exercise reasonable care.
Penalty: Up to 6 months in jail
The charge matters—but how it’s defended matters more.
What the Prosecution Has to Prove
In every homicide case, the prosecution must prove specific elements beyond a reasonable doubt—especially intent.
That’s where strong defense strategies come into play. Because if intent can’t be proven—or evidence is weak—the entire case starts to fall apart.
How I Defend Homicide Cases
These are complex, high-stakes cases. There’s no cookie-cutter defense.
I take a strategic, aggressive approach that may include:
- Challenging forensic evidence (DNA, ballistics, timelines)
- Exposing inconsistencies in witness testimony
- Fighting unlawful searches or interrogations
- Establishing self-defense or defense of others
- Disputing intent or level of involvement
- Identifying alternative suspects or scenarios
In some cases, the goal is dismissal. In others, it’s reducing the charge to something far less severe. Either way, the strategy starts immediately.
Common Defense Strategies in Homicide Cases
I explore every avenue to provide you with the best possible defense. Potential defenses in homicide cases may include:
SELF DEFENSE:
Ohio law allows individuals to use deadly force if they reasonably believe it is necessary to protect themselves or others from imminent harm. If you acted in self-defense, I will work to prove that your actions were justified.
ACCIDENTAL DEATH:
If the death was unintentional and occurred without criminal intent or negligence, it may be considered an accident. I will argue that the death was not the result of reckless or criminal behavior.
MISTAKES IDENTITY:
In cases where there is doubt about the identity of the perpetrator, I will work to cast doubt on the prosecution’s evidence and argue that you were not involved in the crime.
LACK OF INTENT:
In cases involving manslaughter or lesser charges, I may argue that there was no intent to kill or cause harm, which could reduce the severity of the charges.
What Happens After You’re Charged?
Most people have no idea what comes next—and that uncertainty is brutal.
Here’s what typically happens:
- Arrest and formal charges
- Arraignment and bail hearing
- Investigation and evidence review
- Pretrial motions (this is where cases can start to unravel)
- Negotiations or trial
The earlier a defense attorney is involved, the more control you have over how this process plays out.
Why Clients Trust Me With Serious Charges
When facing a sexual assault charge in Ohio, you need an attorney who understands the unique aspects of the criminal justice system.
Personalized Defense
You won't be just another case number. We take the time to get to know you and understand the details of your situation. You'll get the attention your case and your future deserve.
Trial Tested Experience
Years of experience in Columbus courtrooms have allowed us to build professional relationships with local prosecutors and judges that can benefit your case through more productive negotiations and respected advocacy.
Highly Recommended
Most of my clients come from word of mouth. My past clients know how I've helped them and they recommend me to their family and friends. That's the best endorsement I could ask for.
Proven Results
We get the results you need while taking a human-based approach. We care about you, we're here for you, and we recognize this is the toughest time of your life.
Talk to Nathan Akamine for FREE
If you or a loved one are facing criminal charges, let's talk.
