California Murder Charges
What is a murder charge in California?
- Under California law, murder is defined as: “the unlawful killing of a human being, or a fetus, with malice aforethought.”
- You can be charged with murder under the Felony Murder Rule even if you yourself did not directly kill anyone, but the murder was part of an existing criminal conspiracy
- Sentencing enhancements exist if you are charged with murdering a police officer. Enhancements may also exist due to the exact circumstances of the crime.
- Murder in the California Penal Code
- Punishments for murder vary depending on if the charge is first degree or second degree murder.
- First degree murder is punished by death, imprisonment in the state prison for life without the possibility of parole, or imprisonment in the state prison for a term of 25 years to life.
- Second degree murder is punished by imprisonment in the state prison for a term of 15 years to life.
- Murder one of the most serious criminal convictions and can result in death or life imprisonment.
- Don’t risk it! If you, a family member, or friend is facing a murder charge, it is best to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney.
- For the best murder defense in Los Angeles, contact The Law Offices of Erik S. Lewin.
