Homicide, Murder & Manslaughter

Homicide charges are among the most serious criminal charges that an individual could face. The penalties for being convicted of homicide in California include a prison term of many years (or life) with or without parole, and in some cases, the death penalty.

A person charged with homicide needs an experienced and knowledgeable team of criminal defense attorneys who can offer sound legal advice and build a solid defense to ensure the best possible outcome in a case. If you're facing a homicide charge, contact the Law Offices of Grech & Firetag today for to schedule a FREE consultation.

Categories of Homicide

Murder and manslaughter fall under the category of homicide, and include:

• First-Degree Murder — Murder that is committed with premeditation and deliberation; punishable by imprisonment for 25 years to life, or life in prison without parole, or death
• Second-Degree Murder — A murder that is not committed with premeditation or deliberation; punishable by imprisonment for 15 years to life
• Felony Murder — In California, killing someone (even if unintended) while committing a dangerous felony is treated as first-degree murder
• Voluntary Manslaughter — Killing someone intentionally because of adequate provocation or a person's unreasonable attempt at self-defense; punishable by imprisonment for 3, 6, or 11 years
• Involuntary Manslaughter — An unintentional killing that occurred while committing a misdemeanor, or due to gross negligence; punishable by imprisonment for 2, 3, or 4 years
• Vehicular Manslaughter — An unintentional killing that occurred while committing an unlawful act while driving any type of motor vehicle. This includes DUI offenses

Your Criminal Defense

Defending against any of these serious charges requires an in-depth knowledge of the criminal system in the county and state in which the defendant is charged. At Grech & Firetag we strive to challenge both the District Attorney's evidence against you and any possible procedural mistakes that the police or D.A.'s office may have made. In addition, a thorough understanding of the defenses for homicide is crucial. The following defenses may apply to your case:

• Factual innocence (alibi, mistaken identity, etc.)
• Self defense
• Imperfect self defense
• Defense of someone else, including family members
• Accident
• Insufficient evidence
• Insanity
• Battered woman defense

If you’re facing charges of homicide, you need a skilled attorney who can help you plan an effective defense strategy. The criminal defense attorneys at Grech & Firetag have extensive experience both in and out of the courtroom and have helped countless clients facing serious criminal charges. Start planning your defense today — contact us for a complimentary consultation.