Hampton Roads Murder Defense Lawyer
McCormack & McCormack provides experienced murder and homicide defense throughout Hampton Roads and Virginia. Our attorneys carefully evaluate the facts, examine the available evidence, and develop a defense strategy based on the specific allegations and circumstances of each case.
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Accused of Murder in Virginia?
Don't face the
uncertainty alone.
Being accused of taking another person's life can change your life immediately. Murder investigations can involve police interviews, eyewitness testimony, forensic evidence, surveillance footage, electronic records, medical evidence, firearms or other physical evidence, and statements from people connected to the case. The prosecution may also rely on evidence intended to establish intent, premeditation, malice, causation, or a connection between the accused and the alleged offense. Understanding how that evidence was obtained, what it actually establishes, and whether it can legally be used in court is an important part of building a defense. At McCormack & McCormack, our attorneys take a thorough approach to serious homicide cases. We examine the allegations, review available evidence, investigate the circumstances surrounding the death, and identify potential weaknesses or legal issues that may affect the prosecution's case. Depending on the circumstances, a homicide allegation may involve murder, manslaughter, or another related offense. Virginia law recognizes both first- and second-degree murder as separate offenses, while voluntary and involuntary manslaughter are classified separately under Virginia law. If you have been accused of murder or manslaughter in Hampton Roads, obtaining experienced legal representation as early as possible can help you understand your rights and determine the best way to move forward.
What Do Murder defense
Lawyers Do?
Murder defense lawyers represent individuals accused of homicide and protect their rights throughout the criminal defense process. From investigating the circumstances surrounding a death and examining forensic evidence to challenging the prosecution's case and defending the accused at trial, an experienced homicide defense attorney works to build the strongest possible defense.
At McCormack & McCormack, our attorneys take a detailed approach to every murder and manslaughter case. We examine the evidence, investigate the circumstances surrounding the allegations, identify potential legal issues, and help clients understand their options throughout the legal process.
Legal Counsel and Advice:
An experienced murder defense lawyer can explain the allegations against you, the criminal process, and the legal issues that may affect your case. We help clients understand their rights and make informed decisions about their defense.
Case Evaluation:
Every homicide case is different. Our attorneys evaluate the specific charge, the circumstances surrounding the death, the prosecution's evidence, witness accounts, forensic evidence, and other factors that may affect the case.
Investigation:
A thorough investigation can be critical in murder defense. Our attorneys examine police reports, witness statements, physical and forensic evidence, surveillance footage, digital evidence, medical or investigative records, and other information that may help establish what actually occurred.
Legal Representation:
Examining evidence and investigative procedures:
Murder cases can involve substantial physical, forensic, digital, and testimonial evidence. Our attorneys carefully examine how evidence was collected and preserved, how witnesses were interviewed, and whether investigative procedures raise legal issues that could affect the prosecution's case.
Negotiation and resolution:
Depending on the circumstances, resolution before trial may be an important part of the defense strategy. Our attorneys evaluate the available options and work to pursue the strongest possible outcome based on the evidence and circumstances of the case.
Trial Preparation and defense:
When a murder or manslaughter case proceeds to trial, preparation is essential. Our attorneys analyze the prosecution's evidence, prepare witnesses and legal arguments, and develop a trial strategy tailored to the specific allegations.
Evaluating defenses and mitigating circumstances:
The circumstances surrounding a death can raise important legal questions. Depending on the facts, issues involving intent, self-defense, the identity of the accused, causation, the reliability of evidence, or the appropriate classification of the alleged offense may become important to the defense.
Our attorneys carefully evaluate these issues rather than assuming that the prosecution's version of events tells the entire story.
Proven Defense Lawyers
with Decades of Experience

When you are facing a murder or manslaughter charge, experience matters. McCormack & McCormack has decades of combined experience representing clients facing serious criminal charges throughout Hampton Roads and Virginia.
Our attorneys bring extensive courtroom experience as well as backgrounds involving civilian criminal defense, military justice, prosecution, and defense. This experience allows our team to evaluate serious criminal cases from multiple perspectives and develop a defense strategy based on the facts and evidence.
Homicide cases can involve complex questions about intent, forensic evidence, witness testimony, causation, investigative procedures, and the circumstances surrounding a death. Our attorneys take the time to thoroughly evaluate each case and identify potential issues that may affect the outcome.
Whether you are facing murder, manslaughter, or another serious homicide-related charge, McCormack & McCormack provides personalized representation focused on protecting your rights and future.
Meet The Attorneys Behind Your Defense
Results Driven and
Client Focused Since 1982

Greg D. McCormack
OF COUNSEL
Greg D. McCormack is a former U.S. Army Judge Advocate with decades of experience representing military and civilian clients in complex criminal, administrative, and federal matters. Known for his aggressive courtroom advocacy, sharp cross-examination skills, and straightforward approach, Greg has successfully represented thousands of clients throughout his career and is committed to providing honest, relentless defense for every client he serves.

Jarrett L. McCormack
President
Jarrett L. McCormack focuses on criminal defense in state and federal courts, with extensive experience representing current and former military members, including cases involving security clearances and military disciplinary actions. Known for his analytical approach and aggressive courtroom advocacy, Jarrett is committed to developing the strategy that best positions each client for success.

Robert W. Canoy Jr.
Senior Attorney
Robert Canoy brings more than a decade of criminal litigation experience, including 11 years as an active-duty military Judge Advocate. He has served as both a trial defense counsel and prosecutor, handling more than 500 criminal cases ranging from minor offenses to serious charges including sexual assault and homicide. Now with McCormack & McCormack, he continues to serve as a JAG officer in the military reserves, bringing extensive courtroom and military legal experience to every case.

Drew T. Lail
ASSOCIATE Attorney
Drew T. Lail is an associate at McCormack & McCormack, representing clients in family law, criminal defense, and traffic matters. A former U.S. Navy aircraft structural mechanic and federal police officer, Drew brings firsthand military and law enforcement experience to his legal practice. He earned his J.D. from Regent University School of Law and is admitted to practice in all Virginia courts. Known for his dedicated and practical approach, Drew works to provide strong advocacy tailored to each client’s unique circumstances.
