Homicide Defense
Pasadena Attorney
Murder Defense Attorney in Pasadena, CA
You never expected to get hit with a murder charge. Whether you were defending yourself or a loved one or a misunderstanding quickly escalated, facing homicide charges in Pasadena is a critical situation that demands immediate and skilled legal representation. The complexity of California’s legal system and the severe punishments connected with a conviction—from long-term imprisonment to even the death sentence—can be intimidating.
Finding an experienced Pasadena murder defense lawyer is vital to defending your rights and putting up a strong defense during these trying times.
An Overview of Homicide Charges in California
California law divides homicide, or the unlawful killing of another person, into many offenses, each with its own definition and penalties. These charges include murder, manslaughter, and vehicular manslaughter, each with varying degrees of intent and culpability.
Murder
Murder is the unlawful killing of a human being with malice aforethought. There are two types of malice: express and implied. Express malice means the perpetrator had a deliberate intent to kill. Implied malice means the person acted with a reckless disregard for human life. Murder is further classified into:
- First-degree murder. This degree of homicide includes premeditated killings, murders that happen during the commission of certain felonies (i.e., felony murder), or killings by explosives, poison, or lying in wait. The penalties include 25 years to life imprisonment.
- Second-degree murder. This homicide charge includes killings that were not premeditated but resulted from an intentional act that had a high probability of causing death. The associated penalties include 15 years to life in prison.
Regardless of the degree, both charges require the prosecution to prove malice and causation beyond a reasonable doubt.
Manslaughter
Manslaughter, which involves unlawful killings without malice, is categorized into the following types:
- Voluntary manslaughter. This crime involves a killing during a sudden quarrel or in the heat of passion. It is punishable by 3 to 11 years in state prison.
- Involuntary manslaughter. This offense involves an unintentional killing resulting from criminal negligence or during the commission of a non-felony unlawful act. A conviction carries a sentence of 2 to 4 years in prison.
- Vehicular manslaughter. Deaths caused by negligent or unlawful driving fall into this category. Depending on the presence or absence of aggravating factors, penalties may include up to 10 years in prison.
Despite being different from murder, these crimes carry significant prison sentences and serious legal consequences that require immediate and knowledgeable legal attention.
How the Legal Process Works
From arrest to trial, homicide cases in Pasadena proceed through a structured legal process:
- Investigation and arrest. During this phase, law enforcement gathers evidence, including forensic analysis, digital data, and witness statements. However, the investigation can continue after the arrest and up to trial.
- Arraignment. During this hearing, the judge formally reads the charges, and the defendant enters a plea. If the defendant pleads not guilty, the judge will set the case for pretrial hearings.
- Pretrial proceedings. This phase includes the discovery process, motion hearings if requested, and bail hearings if bail is not already set at a reasonable rate. The defense and prosecution will negotiate during this phase, and if a plea agreement is reached, the accused can enter their plea.
- Trial. If the sides do not agree to a plea bargain, the case proceeds to trial, where the prosecution presents its case before a jury or judge. The defense challenges the evidence and argues for acquittal or lesser charges.
- Sentencing. If the accused is convicted—either through a plea or guilty verdict at trial—the judge will proceed to sentencing.
Throughout this process, our skilled Pasadena homicide defense attorney plays a vital role in identifying legal strategies to suppress unlawfully obtained evidence, challenge forensic conclusions, and negotiate for reduced charges.
Legal Defenses to Homicide Charges
California law allows multiple defense strategies against homicide charges, depending on the circumstances:
- Self-defense or defense of others—the act could be justified when the defendant believed they or another person were in imminent danger;
- Accident—shows that the killing was unintended and occurred during a lawful act;
- False accusation or mistaken identity—common in cases lacking reliable eyewitnesses or based on circumstantial evidence;
- Mental impairment or insanity—can negate the intent required for certain charges; and
- Police misconduct or constitutional violations—an unlawful search, seizure, or denial of counsel may lead to evidence exclusion.
Each defense is fact-specific, and a knowledgeable Pasadena murder charges lawyer will tailor the approach to the unique facts of your case.
Why Choose Esfandi Law Group
At Esfandi Law Group, we have defended people against the most grave charges for over 20 years. Our Pasadena homicide defense lawyers understand the seriousness of murder allegations and collaborate with forensic experts, investigators, and psychologists to build a comprehensive case. We are known for:
- Aggressive representation in felony trials,
- Discreet and respectful client relationships,
- Bilingual services for Pasadena’s diverse community,
- Familiarity with Los Angeles County court dynamics, and
- Past success defending high-stakes homicide cases.
With years of experience managing challenging legal cases, our staff is committed to giving each client individualized attention and sophisticated defense tactics. We are committed to fighting for the rights and freedom of those facing homicide charges in Pasadena and the surrounding areas.
Protect Your Future Starting Now
A murder charge is not a conviction, but time is critical. While the prosecution builds its case, you need a seasoned defense attorney who understands what’s at stake and how to fight back.
Let our Pasadena murder defense lawyers help you regain control of your narrative. Contact us to schedule a case evaluation or consultation today to get the legal representation your future deserves.
Homicde Defense FAQs
Can I Be Charged with Murder Even If I Didn’t Pull the Trigger?
Yes. Under the state’s felony murder rule, anyone engaged in a felony—such as robbery—that causes death can be charged with murder. This means that the State can charge you even if you did not personally cause the death.
What Happens If the Alleged Victim Survives?
If the victim survives, you may face attempted murder or assault charges instead. These are still serious felonies but may carry lesser penalties.
Can Homicide Charges Be Reduced or Dismissed?
Possibly. A skilled attorney can fight for a dismissal of the charges by challenging the evidence or can argue for reduced charges. For example, a lawyer can use the absence of proof of malice to attempt to reduce a charge from murder to manslaughter.
Is Self-Defense Always a Valid Defense in Homicide Cases?
Not always. You must show that you reasonably believed force was necessary to prevent imminent harm. Excessive force or a lack of immediate threat can undermine this defense.
A murder charge is not a conviction, but time is critical. While the prosecution builds its case, you need a seasoned defense attorney who understands what’s at stake and how to fight back.
Let our Pasadena murder defense lawyers help you regain control of your narrative. Contact us to schedule a case evaluation or consultation today to get the legal representation your future deserves.
