Santa Monica Murder Defense Lawyer

Information About Murder Charges

California Penal Code Section 187 describes murder as being the unlawful killing of another human being with “malice aforethought.” There are two primary types of murder charge:

First degree murder – This is murder that involves premeditation. A person who plans or decides beforehand to commit murder, and then carries the act out, can face first degree charges.
Second degree murder – This is murder that is committed without any deliberation or premeditation. A person who engages in conduct that is clearly dangerous to human life, and ends up killing another, can face second degree charges.

If you are being investigated for murder, or if you have already been charged, it is absolutely critical that you contact a Santa Monica criminal defense lawyer at Lessem & Newstat. A murder conviction can bring about extremely serious penalties, including large fines, life in prison, or even the death penalty. You need aggressive representation that will significantly reduce the likelihood of a conviction. Our experienced team of attorneys will conduct a rigorous investigation of your charges in order to build a comprehensive defense in your case. We may be able to reduce your charges to the fullest extent possible, if not eliminate them completely. We also represent clients residing in Malibu, Westwood, and Venice.

The Death Penalty

In murder cases, the death penalty can be applied in certain cases, such as:

The murder of a uniformed police officer, federal officer, magistrate, or judge
Murder driven by anti-ethnic or anti-religious sentiment
Committing murder while carrying out a separate dangerous felony
Committing murder after “lying in wait” for the victim
Committing murder by detonating a bomb or “terrorist device”

If you have been investigated for murder, or formally charged, it is imperative that you contact a Santa Monica murder defense attorney who will work tirelessly in an effort to clear you of wrongdoing.