Orange County Murder Defense Lawyer

First Degree, Capital, Second Degree, California Penal Code 187

Regardless of the circumstances, if you face a charge of murdering someone, your life is on a razor’s edge. Even just hearing the word associated with them is enough to terrify normal people. Once the legal process begins, the experience opens up a dizzying series of legal events – many of which seem completely alien.

Some people who are charged with a homicide are indeed guilty. That leaves a surprising number of people who are not guilty. The big question for a California defense attorney is how the innocent person was caught up in events to have resulted in the charge.

In any criminal charge, the burden of proof lies with the prosecutor. That’s why it is vitally important that you find the absolute best legal defense that you can find.

A criminal charge of homicide can occur under many different circumstances. The charge may be categorized as a first degree murder, where it is determined by the prosecutor that the defendant actions were premeditated, willful and deliberate. With a charge of first degree murder, if the prosecutor applies the “felony murder rule” it means that they intend to pursue a conviction even if the defendant did not intend the victim to die. The extreme situation is a capital murder charge whereby the prosecutor has determined that the defendant acted in such a way deserving the death penalty or life in prison (without possibility of parole).

With a second degree charge of murder, the prosecutor has determined that the defendant actions were not premeditated, willful or deliberate, but that the loss of life could have been prevented by the defendant. These cases often involve vehicular or misdemeanor manslaughter.

Defense Strategy

Homicide is a very complicated charge and requires a great deal of research and work in order to effectively defend an individual accused or charged with this crime. Time is of the essence in these types of cases. It is imperative that you plan a defense strategy as soon as possible in order to preserve evidence, prepare motions, subpoena witnesses and propound discovery.

If you or someone you know has been charged with the crime of homicide (under any category), please contact our offices immediately. We have extensive experience with homicide cases as well as a vast network of attorneys who are experts in homicide defense.

During your time of need, you can count on the Law Offices of Stull & Stull to provide you with the type of representation that will ensure that your facts of the case have first and foremost consideration. We will put in the time, effort, and resources needed to fight for your freedom.