Riverside Violent Crimes Attorney

Murder & Homicide

Murder / Homicide Information
Murder is defined as illegally and intentionally causing the death of another person. Typically, the law requires that the death of the victim occur one year and a day for it to be considered murder. Most murder crimes are classified according to their level of severity and by degree. Murder in the first degree is premeditated and murder in the second degree is instantaneous with intent to kill or cause a lethal injury. Murder falls under the category of homicide. The laws surrounding homicide crimes are very broad and complex.

Homicide is the killing of one person by another. Unlike murder, homicide can be justifiable or excusable. Justifiable homicide is the legal or authorized killing of another person and excusable homicide is the killing of another person in self defense. When deciding if a murder was excusable or justifiable, the court will evaluate the circumstances surrounding the victim's death. Other types of homicide are considered criminal. Criminal homicide is when one person kills another illegally or without legal justification. First degree murder and second degree murder fall under the category of criminal homicide.

If a person is convicted of murder or criminal homicide, they could spend their life in prison. In some states, the convicted offender may be sentenced with capital punishment. Before sentencing a convicted murderer, the court will consider the severity of the crime, whether weapons were involved, and the offender's prior criminal record. Each of these factors could result in sentence severe enhancements.

If you have been charged with murder or homicide in Riverside or the surrounding areas, it is important that you speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney. A skilled attorney can advise you of your legal options and protect your rights. Murder is a very serious offense.

Hanson, Hales, Gorian & Bradford has successfully represented clients throughout Riverside who have been charged with murder and homicide . In some cases, we can negotiate with prosecutors to have charges or sentences reduced. While the outcome of each case depends upon the circumstances involved, we will always fight for our clients’ best interests. Contact violent crimes law firm Hanson, Hales, Gorian & Bradford!