Santa Clarita Murder Defense Attorney

Manslaughter Defense Lawyer in Santa Clarita

Murder and manslaughter, also known as homicide, are among the most serious felony crimes you can possibly be charged with in California. Penalties can include years of incarceration, harsh fines and restitution to victims and their families. A murder conviction can include sentences of 25 years to life in prison without parole and even the death penalty. A voluntary manslaughter conviction can include up to 11 years in prison. With so much at stake, it's vital that you contact a seasoned Santa Clarita criminal defense lawyer immediately if you or a loved one is under investigation for or have been arrested for murder or manslaughter in Santa Clarita.

Murder and Manslaughter in Santa Clarita

Murder and manslaughter are both serious offenses categorized under crimes called homicide. Title 18 of the U.S. Code defines murder as the unlawful killing of a human being with malice aforethought. In other words, murder is the intentional taking of another person's life without legal justification or provocation. First-degree murder involves premeditation, planning or lying in wait. First-degree murder can also be charged if the homicide occurred during the commission of a felony crime, like robbery or rape, for instance. In California, first-degree murder can also include the killing of a judge or someone in law enforcement, racially- or religiously-motivated killings called hate crimes or killing other humans with destructive devices.

Title 18 of the U.S. Code defines manslaughter as the unlawful killing of a human being without malice. The homicide may be either voluntary or involuntary. Voluntary includes a sudden quarrel or heat of passion. Involuntary includes other killings. In California, there's also vehicular manslaughter which, depending on the facts of the case, can have a felony or misdemeanor charge.

As you can see, the distinctions between murder and manslaughter and the different degrees of these crimes and punishments are very complex issues that will affect any legal defense strategy. That's why, if you or someone you know has been charged with murder or manslaughter in Santa Clarita, don't talk to prosecutors or law enforcement officers about your case. Contact an experienced Santa Clarita Murder Defense Lawyer from The Law Offices of David M. Wallin immediately for a free consultation. With 50 years of combined experienced between them, the attorneys at the firm are skilled criminal defense litigators with extensive experience. In fact, attorney David M. Wallin, a former Deputy District Attorney, is one of only 175 State Bar of California Certified Criminal Law Specialist in the entire state.

We are dedicated to helping people who are facing criminal authorities in arrests, allegations, investigations, trials, or appeals, and work hard for our clients to resolve their cases with the best possible outcome, including lesser charges or even dismissal or acquittals. Do not settle for a guilty plea. Get the experienced criminal defense team that you deserve.