Rancho Cucamonga Murder Defense Lawyer

Murder Charges in California

Simply being charged with murder can create havoc for an individual and their family. Of all violent crimes, murder carries the stiffest penalties. In our firm, Cho, Sheasby, Chung & Ignacio, LLP we are able to help you understand the trial that you face and its consequences. If you are facing a murder charge, a Rancho Cucamonga criminal defense attorney that knows the laws and is willing to aggressively fight for you, is your best chance for success.

Murder is best defined as the unlawful killing of a human being with malice aforethought. As opposed to manslaughter, the key element of murder is that the person developed and had the thought to kill another person, prior to carrying out the act. It is a deliberate act and prosecutors must prove the malice aforethought in order to prevail at trial. They must also prove that there was knowledge the action taken would result in the death of another. If an accidental death occurs when a person is in the act of a felony, such as certain drug crimes or a kidnapping, this may also result in a murder charge.

The Consequences of Conviction

When you are convicted of first degree murder, you can receive a prison sentence of 25 years to life without the possibility of parole, or a death sentence. For second degree murder, the sentence will be imprisonment for a term of 15 years to life. In certain circumstances, a second degree murder conviction carries with it a life sentence without the possibility of parole. Murder that is classified as a hate crime can also be punished with the death penalty.

Murder trials can be extremely complex and intricate. We pride ourselves on not only knowing the laws pertaining to murder but on developing unique and aggressive defense strategies on behalf of our clients. At times, a murder charge can be negotiated to a lesser crime with reduced penalties. The evidence used against you may be flawed and insufficient to prove the elements of murder. Our firm stands ready to use our years of experience towards successfully resolving your case.

Contact a Rancho Cucamonga Murder Defense Lawyer if you or a loved one has been accused of murder and want aggressive legal representation.