Santa Ana Murder Defense Attorney
Unflagging Advocacy from the Law Offices of Benjamin Arsenian
Few criminal accusations, if any, are treated as seriously as allegations of murder. If you or a loved one have been charged with murder, it is imperative that you seek defense representation that has the knowledge, experience, and resources to protect the accused against these charges. Murder convictions can result in life-altering penalties and proactive, assertive counsel is needed throughout every stage of these cases.
Attorney Benjamin Arsenian is former Deputy District Attorney who has argued murder cases before. Our firm knows how these cases are processed in California and what can be done to ensure that the rights and interests of the accused remain a priority both in and outside the courtroom.
It is possible to confront these allegations with a prepared, competent legal advocate by your side. Call the Law Offices Of Benjamin Arsenian PC at 714-400-2000 today.
Understanding Murder Charges in California
Essentially, there are three different murder charges in California. While each is a serious felony accusation, these charges come with different maximum penalties if a conviction is reached. These charges are described in California Penal Code 187 (a)PC.
The different murder charges in California include:
- Second-degree murder is charged when it is believed that the murder was deliberate but not premeditated.
- First-degree murder is charged when it is believed that a murder was premeditated and deliberate.
- Capital murder is charged in certain first-degree cases where the alleged motives or circumstances are considered especially serious.
No matter what your murder charge may entail, it is critical that you start exploring your defense options now. Contact our offices today to request a free case evaluation.
The “Felony-Murder” Rule
California has an additional law that makes criminal defendants liable for murder even when they themselves may not have had a direct hand in someone’s death. Due to the state’s felony-murder rule, defendants can be charged with murder if they are suspected of committing another felony that inadvertently resulted in someone’s death. This rule also comes into play if an accomplice murders someone during the course of committing a felony.
The felony-murder rule can come into various cases involving:
- Carjacking
- Burglary
- Arson
- Robbery
- Kidnapping
- Rape
Regardless of the specific qualifications of your murder charge, the time to take action is now. At the Law Offices of Benjamin Arsenian, our experienced Santa Ana murder defense lawyer is ready to respond to your immediate call and take the reins of your legal defense at this critical time.
Do not hesitate to protect yourself against these serious allegations. Contact us today to request a free case evaluation.