Homicide Defense
Los Angeles Attorney
Los Angeles Murder Defense Attorneys
One moment, you were living your life. The next moment, you’re facing the most serious accusation imaginable—homicide. Law enforcement is building a case against you, and prosecutors are ready to seek the harshest penalties. Whether it was self-defense or a misunderstanding, you need a defense attorney who fights just as hard to protect your rights and future.
An experienced Los Angeles homicide defense lawyer from Esfandi Law Group will fight for you at every stage of the legal process.
Understanding Homicide Charges in California
Homicide is the unlawful killing of another person, but not all homicide charges are the same. California law recognizes different degrees of homicide, each carrying distinct legal definitions and penalties. The first step in creating a strong defense is understanding the charge against you, so let’s examine the varying types of homicide charges that exist under California law.
Murder
California defines murder as the unlawful killing of a human being with malice aforethought—and this is the most serious homicide charge. Express malice is the deliberate intent to kill. Implied malice results from acting with reckless disregard for human life. There are two degrees of murder.
First-Degree Murder
First-degree murder is defined as a premeditated and deliberate killing or a killing that occurred during the commission of a felony under the felony murder rule. This charge carries a penalty of 25 years to life in state prison, life without parole, or the death penalty in capital cases.
Second-Degree Murder
Second-degree murder is the intentional killing of another person without premeditation. The penalty for this crime is 15 years to life in state prison.
Your defense strategy depends on the degree of murder charged, making it critical to work with an attorney who knows how to fight back.
Manslaughter
Manslaughter is a form of homicide that lacks malice aforethought. It carries significant penalties but is a less serious offense than murder.
- Voluntary manslaughter. This offense involves someone killing in the heat of passion or under extreme provocation. A conviction can lead to 3 to 11 years in state prison.
- Involuntary manslaughter. This crime involves the death of a person caused by your reckless or negligent actions when you had no intention to kill. If convicted, you could face two to four years in state prison.
- Vehicular manslaughter. Negligent or reckless driving that results in a fatality can lead to a prison sentence of up to 10 years. The penalties can be more severe if there are aggravating factors such as a blatant disregard for safety.
While manslaughter charges carry lesser penalties than murder, they still require a strong defense to avoid severe consequences.
Why You Need an Experienced Los Angeles Homicide Defense Attorney
Facing a homicide charge can make you feel like your whole world is collapsing. The prosecution will vigorously pursue a conviction, and the weight of these accusations can be immense. You risk severe penalties without a strong defense strategy. Hiring an experienced Los Angeles murder defense attorney is essential to protecting your rights.
How a Skilled Attorney Can Help
A strong defense begins with understanding the evidence, challenging weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and developing a strategic legal approach. Our knowledgeable Los Angeles murder charges lawyer will:
- Conduct a thorough investigation to uncover inconsistencies and weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence;
- Challenge illegal police procedures, including unlawful searches, coerced confessions, and violations of constitutional rights;
- Collaborate with expert witnesses, including forensic analysts and medical examiners, to challenge evidence presented by the prosecution;
- Develop defense strategies, such as self-defense, mistaken identity, accidental death, or lack of intent; and
- Negotiate plea agreements, if appropriate, to reduce charges or penalties.
At the Esfandi Law Group, we’ve helped clients facing the most serious homicide charges secure case dismissals, reduced charges, and acquittals. With the prosecution building its case against you, you need a defense team to fight aggressively for your freedom.
Potential Defenses Against Homicide Charges
A homicide charge does not automatically lead to a conviction. The right legal strategy can mean the difference between life in prison and reduced or dismissed charges. Let’s look at some possible defenses.
Self-Defense
If the killing occurred while you were protecting yourself or another from imminent harm, the law may justify your actions. The key to this defense is proving that you reasonably believed your life or the life of another was in immediate danger.
Accident
If the death was unintentional and not the result of reckless conduct, it may not constitute a criminal act. Demonstrating that there was no criminal negligence or unlawful intent can help secure a dismissal or reduced charge.
Insufficient Evidence
The prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If there is a lack of physical evidence, unreliable witness testimony, or gaps in the evidence, your attorney can argue that the state has not met its high burden of proof.
False Accusation
Mistaken identity or unreliable witness memory may have led to wrongful charges. Your lawyer can challenge misidentifications, fabricated evidence, and ulterior motives from witnesses to expose the truth.
Police Misconduct
If law enforcement violated your rights during the investigation or arrest, your lawyer can file a motion to suppress the resultant evidence. Illegal searches, coerced confessions, or procedural violations can weaken the prosecution’s case and result in reduced or dismissed charges.
Your Defense, Your Power: Take the First Step
Every moment without a dedicated legal advocate puts you at a disadvantage. At the Esfandi Law Group, we excel in high-stakes criminal defense, using a deep knowledge of California law to protect our clients from the harshest penalties. Our team has a proven track record of success in complex homicide cases, including dismissals, reduced charges, and not-guilty verdicts.
When everything is on the line, you need more than just legal representation—you need our Los Angeles murder defense lawyers who will fight tirelessly for your freedom. Call us today for a confidential consultation and take the first step toward reclaiming your future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Do If I’m Accused of Homicide in Los Angeles?
Remain silent and do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney. Contact a Los Angeles homicide defense attorney immediately to protect your rights.
What Are My Rights If I Am Arrested for Homicide?
If you are accused of murder, it is crucial to remember your rights:
- The right to remain silent,
- The right to an attorney, and
- The right to a fair trial.
Immediately contact a Los Angeles homicide defense lawyer to protect these rights.
Can Homicide Charges Be Reduced or Dismissed?
Yes, depending on the circumstances. A skilled attorney may negotiate lesser charges. They do this by pointing out the weaknesses in the prosecutor’s case or demonstrating the ability to prove self-defense. If the arguments are persuasive, the prosecutor might offer an advantageous plea, reduce the charges, or dismiss them altogether.
How Long Does a Homicide Case Take?
Each case is unique, but homicide trials can take months or even years. Working with our Los Angeles homicide defense lawyers ensures efficient handling of your case.
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