Los Angeles Homicide Lawyer

Understanding homicide crimes in Los Angeles can be very challenging, given the extremely serious nature, and especially for individuals with no legal background. In order to better understand the nature of such serious offenses, this discussion highlights the types of homicide and their respective legal consequences, potential defenses, and the procedural stages a case of such a nature undergoes before getting handled down in California.

Homicide in Los Angeles under California Penal Code section 187 is one of the most well-known sections of the Penal code among various homicide crimes, however, there are many other sections as well. Each section is defined by specific legal criteria and intent. Let’s understand these distinctions to help you plan better for the legal procedure if ever faced with such circumstances.

• First-degree murder: Planned and premeditated, this is the most severe form of homicide where most commonly the perpetrator intends to kill with willful, deliberate, and premeditated. There are also other variations of First-degree murder.
• Second-degree murder: This involves intentional killing without premeditation, occurring spontaneously or as a result of another dangerous felony.
• Voluntary manslaughter: Typically a crime of passion, this occurs when a person kills another upon a sudden quarrel or heat of passion, or in a moment of strong emotion without prior intent to kill.
• Vehicular Manslaughter: This oftentimes occurs when a homicide occurs as a result of driving car, someone is killed during the commission of an unlawful act, not amounting to a felony, and with gross negligence; or driving a vehicle in the commission of a lawful act which might produce death, in an unlawful manner, and with gross negligence.
• Involuntary manslaughter: Results from reckless actions or during the commission of a non-felony crime that accidentally causes death.
• Justifiable homicide: Legally excused killings, such as in self-defense, where the use of deadly force is deemed necessary and lawful.

The consequences for committing homicide vary significantly, reflecting the gravity and circumstances of the offense.

Penalties for murder in the first degree can include 25 years to life in prison, life in prison without parole, and in some cases, the death penalty. All of these on the table under penal code 187 in California. The punishment is especially high for murders allegations involving special circumstances such as the unlawful killing a law enforcement officer.

Generally, results in 15 years to life in prison, with potential enhancements based on the crime’s specifics.

Sentences for voluntary manslaughter can go up to 11 years, while involuntary manslaughter might lead to a maximum of 4 years in prison.

Factors like using a weapon or having a history of violence can lead to harsher penalties.

Preparing a strong defense against homicide charges requires understanding various legal strategies based on the circumstances of the case. Knowing the difference between homicide and murders is crucial, as each defense targets a specific element of the crime, aiming to challenge the prosecution’s accusations directly.

Claiming self-defense involves proving that the killing was a necessary response to an imminent threat to life or serious injury.