Homicide cases are among the most serious criminal charges in California. Facing such charges can be overwhelming and life-changing.
SoCal Criminal Defense Lawyer focuses on protecting your rights and building a strong defense. Our West Covina homicide attorney understands the complexities of homicide cases in Los Angeles County.
We know that each criminal case is unique, and we tailor our approach to each client's needs. From reviewing evidence to challenging charges, SoCal Criminal Defense Lawyer helps you through every step. With our experience, we aim to secure the best outcome possible.
Our West Covina homicide attorney is dedicated to defending your rights. We know how serious these charges are and how much is at stake. Our criminal defense team works hard to protect each client’s future.
You need a skilled attorney when facing violent crimes in Los Angeles County. We examine every part of your case, from the initial arrest to the evidence gathered by the prosecution. Our legal team challenges any weak or unfair claims.
We understand the tactics of Los Angeles County prosecutors and work to counter them. With SoCal Criminal Defense Lawyer, you have a dedicated advocate who fights for you at every step.
Homicide is the act of one person causing another’s death. This term includes both murder and manslaughter. However, each has its own legal definition and level of severity.
Murder involves intent. It is the deliberate act of killing someone with planning or purpose. California law separates murder into different degrees based on how planned or violent the act was.
Manslaughter, on the other hand, is killing without intent. It often occurs in heated situations or by accident. Manslaughter can be either voluntary or involuntary, depending on the circumstances. Understanding these distinctions is essential, as each charge carries different penalties in California.
California law divides murder into degrees. Each degree has specific elements and penalties. First-degree murder is the most serious and involves premeditation. This means the act was planned before it happened.
Second-degree murder is also intentional but without premeditation. It may occur in the heat of the moment. Though less severe than first-degree murder, second-degree still carries serious penalties.
Both degrees lead to long prison sentences and, in some cases, life imprisonment. Knowing these differences is key, as each degree affects sentencing under California law.
Our West Covina criminal defense attorney handles various homicide cases. Here are the main types of cases and their specific penalties:
First-degree murder is the most serious homicide charge. It involves planning and intent to kill. In California, a conviction can lead to life in prison or even the death penalty.
To convict someone of first-degree murder, the prosecution must prove intent and premeditation. This high level of proof is challenging and requires clear evidence. Our West Covina attorney challenges these claims to protect your rights. Facing such charges without a skilled defense attorney can be risky.
Second-degree murder is a serious charge but differs from first-degree murder. It involves intentional killing without prior planning. This can happen in situations where emotions run high or in sudden conflicts.
In California, second-degree murder carries harsh penalties. A conviction can lead to 15 years to life in prison. However, factors like prior convictions or violent crimes can increase the sentence. Facing these charges requires a strong defense to reduce or challenge the prosecution’s claims. Our West Covina criminal defense attorney works to build a case that seeks the best possible outcome.
Voluntary manslaughter is an act of killing without intent to murder. It often happens in situations of sudden anger or intense emotion. Unlike murder, it does not involve premeditation.
In California, voluntary manslaughter carries significant penalties, but they are less severe than murder charges. Under the Penal Code § 193, a conviction may result in a prison sentence of 3 to 11 years. This sentence can vary depending on the case details and any prior criminal record. Our defense attorney in West Covina examines the evidence closely to argue for reduced charges and penalties in these cases.
Involuntary manslaughter involves causing death without intent or planning. This usually happens due to reckless behavior or neglect rather than an act of violence.
The penalties for involuntary manslaughter in California are less severe than those for murder. Under paragraph (3) of subdivision (c) of Section 192, a violation is punishable by imprisonment of up to four years in the state of California.
However, aggravating factors or a past criminal record can increase this penalty. Our legal team works to present a defense that highlights any mitigating factors, aiming to reduce the charges or lessen the impact on your future.
Felony murder is a unique charge in California. It applies when a person dies during the commission of a felony, even if the death was unintended. This means that if someone commits certain felony crimes, like robbery or burglary, and a death occurs, they can be charged with murder.
Under California law, felony murder carries severe penalties. A conviction may result in a life sentence, even if the individual didn’t directly cause the death. The West Covina criminal defense attorney at SoCal Criminal Defense Lawyer examines all evidence in these cases.
Building a strong defense against homicide charges is critical. Here are some common defenses used by a West Covina criminal defense attorney:
Self-defense is one of the common defenses in homicide cases. It applies when the accused acted to protect themselves from immediate harm. California law allows individuals to defend themselves if they face a serious threat.
The “defense of others” applies when someone acts to protect another person from harm. California law recognizes this as a valid defense if the person believes another was in immediate danger.
In Los Angeles County, cases involving this defense require a thorough review. Our West Covina criminal defense team investigates the situation closely.
A lack of intent is a defense used in homicide cases to show the act was not planned or purposeful. This defense is common in cases of involuntary manslaughter. It can also apply if the death occurred during another action that was not intended to harm anyone.
Mistaken identity is a powerful defense in criminal cases, especially in homicide cases. Sometimes, witnesses or evidence may wrongly identify a suspect. This is especially true in cases with limited or unclear evidence.
In Los Angeles County, our criminal defense law firm works to uncover any errors in identification. We check for unreliable witness statements or evidence issues. A mistaken identity defense can be crucial in clearing a client’s name. Our legal team ensures the West Covina court hears all facts to prevent wrongful convictions.
Mental health issues can impact a person’s actions and decisions. In some homicide cases, mental health defenses are essential. These defenses show that the accused may not have understood their actions or intended harm.
If you face homicide charges in California, taking immediate steps can protect your rights. Here are actions to take:
A homicide attorney plays a vital role in protecting your rights. Here are some ways our West Covina legal team supports you:
Our criminal defense attorney carefully reviews all evidence, including witness statements, forensic reports, and physical proof. Building a solid defense is crucial in felony cases.
Our team challenges weak evidence to reduce charges and create a strong defense against Los Angeles County prosecutors. Every step aims to protect your rights and work toward a favorable outcome.
We carefully examine all evidence from Los Angeles County prosecutors. Our West Covina criminal defense lawyer questions witness credibility and the strength of evidence.
By finding errors or inconsistencies, we work to weaken the prosecution’s case and strengthen yours. This approach can greatly impact the court’s decision, especially in serious criminal cases.
Our West Covina criminal lawyer is dedicated to providing each client with a fair trial and strong defense, regardless of the charges. From juvenile cases to serious offenses, we approach every case with care.
In court, we present clear arguments, challenge weak evidence, and cross-examine witnesses to defend against serious accusations. With experience in Los Angeles County, our team works to protect your rights and achieve a positive outcome.
When facing homicide charges, time is critical. Hiring a West Covina criminal lawyer early can make a big difference. The sooner we begin, the more time we have to build a strong defense.
With experience across Los Angeles County, we know the complexities of homicide cases. From gathering evidence to consulting experts, our team acts fast to challenge the prosecution, reduce charges, or seek dismissal. Starting with a skilled defense attorney can help protect your future.
If you face charges for homicide, drug crimes, or white-collar crimes, our criminal defense lawyers are here to help. We understand the serious impact of these charges and offer skilled defense to protect your rights.
SoCal Criminal Defense Lawyer provides dedicated support, guiding you through each step of the legal process. Contact our West Covina office today for a free case consultation, and let us build a strong defense for you.
Schedule Your Free
Confidential Consultation
Phone: 949-568-2705
Follow Us
"*" indicates required fields
