Los Angeles Murder Defense Attorney
First and Second Degree Offenses
California's penal code describes murder as "the unlawful killing of a human being, or a fetus, with malice aforethought." As opposed to manslaughter, the essential element of murder is that a person had the intention to take another's life prior to actually doing so. If you face murder charges, it must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt that you had the required "malice aforethought" and that you knew your actions would cause the death of another person.
Murder is a "strike" per California's three strikes rule and can be charged as either a first or second degree offense. Murder in the first degree is an unlawful killing that was both deliberate and premeditated. It is murder in the second degree when an intentional killing was not premeditated or a person brought about the death of another through their negligence or dangerous behavior.
Prosecutors do not normally bring a murder charge unless they are confident they can prove their case. It is vital, therefore, to obtain the services of a committed Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer from Law Offices of David D. Diamond to pursue justice in your case. If you do not have excellent legal representation, you can miss many opportunities to have your case dismissed or have the charges lessened and this will, ultimately, affect the freedoms that you enjoy.
The Consequences of a Murder Conviction
The sentence for conviction of murder in the second degree is a term in state prison for 15 years to life. If you are convicted of first degree murder, the sentence is 25 years to life, with no possibility for parole. When a murder conviction constitutes your third strike, it is an automatic 25 years to life. Depending upon special conditions surrounding the crime, such as the murder of a police officer or the commission of a hate crime, you can have the death penalty enforced upon you.
How we will defend your case depends on the circumstances involved and the evidence that is brought forth. In certain instances, negotiation can reduce the charges and thus the penalties you face. Prosecutors or law enforcement can be flawed in their actions and we can use this to create doubt as to your guilt and towards an acquittal in your case.
Immediately contact a Los Angeles murder defense attorney to learn what can be done to defend against prosecution for murder.
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Client Reviews
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“I've seen a lot of attorneys throughout my years, and I have to say you're one of the best I've seen. I thought you were organized, you were prepared, you had great arguments, you had a great composure with this jury. Your legal research was spot on.”Los Angeles Superior Court Judge, Compton Branch, Robbery-Gang Trial
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“Great Job, Dave! You will always be my first call... But in fairness, I hope I will never need your services again.”Rob P.
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“Words cannot express the gratitude our family has for David Diamond and his staff. My spouse was falsely accused of stalking and caused extreme stress on our family. The case was dismissed. David Diamond is passionate and knowledgeable about the law.”Mary M.
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“I am very thankful to have such a great, caring, and knowledgeable attorney such as David Diamond. He set my mind at ease and helped me through the entire process. Please do yourself a favor and call him if you are ever in need of a DUI attorney.”J.M.
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“David, I wanted to write and let you know how extraordinarily pleased I was with the outcome of my case; you truly work miracles! I wouldn't hesitate to recommend you to anyone I know. Again, thank you for all your hard work and support, you're the best!”B.B.
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“There are no words that we say to show you how completely grateful we are to you, will always be remembered in this family.”The G Family
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“Thank you so much for all of your help! I hope none of our family has to go through an appeal, but if they do, with great confidence, I would be happy to recommend you! Thank you again!”C.M.
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“I would like to thank you for your professionalism, dedication and favorable results in my case. I appreciate knowing and being able to count on your firm. If I ever need your services in another case, I will not hesitate to call you.”E. S.
