Understanding a Murder Charge in California
According to Section 187 of the California Penal Code, “Murder is the unlawful killing of a human being, or a fetus, with malice aforethought.” Under this definition, any loss of life — whether deliberate or not — that you intentionally or knowingly caused could result in murder charges in California.
There are three main types of murder charge:
- Capital Murder
- First Degree Murder
- Second Degree Murder
Capital murder usually involves more than one victim or the murder of a police officer, fireman, elected official, or another specified public servant.
Murder in the first degree requires prosecutors to establish premeditation of the crime. They need to prove that the perpetrator intended to take the life of another through careful planning, lying in wait, or using an explosive device to take a life. A First Degree murder charge is extremely serious. If you are charged with First-degree murder, having an experienced Los Angeles murder defense attorney on your side is vital.
Second-degree murder is used in cases where your actions have resulted in the loss of someone’s life, but without provocation or a proven intention to kill the victim. It is also used when an unlawful activity (such as aggravated assault, robbery, etc.) leads to someone’s death.
Navigating a murder charge in Los Angeles without the counsel of knowledgeable murder defense lawyers is not just challenging, but really risky. You could inadvertently make the situation worse without knowing the intricacies of criminal law. Ensuring you have a well-versed legal team of murder defense lawyers by your side to offer clarity, direction and guidance could make all the difference in the penalties you will receive.
Consequences of a Murder Conviction in California
Depending on the specifics of the case, a person convicted of second-degree murder could face between 15 years to life in prison. Those convicted of first-degree murder may spend between 25 years to life in prison.
Even if you fulfill the terms of your sentence and are released on parole, the ramifications extend beyond just the immediate prison term. This conviction could severely limit your employment and housing options.
The repercussions aren’t limited to just the individual – Murder convictions often carry devastating impacts on the perpetrator’s family as well, causing overwhelming emotional and psychological distress.
As you navigate this treacherous legal terrain, the insights and advocacy of a highly experienced murder lawyer in Los Angeles, like those at Wegman & Levin, are invaluable.
Your Future Isn’t Written in Stone
Facing a murder charge can be overwhelming, scary and intimidating. Having an experienced Los Angeles murder defense attorney by your side will make a world of difference. At Wegman & Levin, our murder defense attorney will meticulously assess any breaches in your rights, ensuring that you’re not unjustly treated in the Los Angeles or Southern California court system. Crafting a robust defense is our forte, and with us, you’re not just another case; you’re an individual whose future and freedom are at stake.
