Santa Ana Murder Defense Lawyer

Accused of Murder?

When facing one of the most serious criminal charges that a person can be accused of, it is essential to have a Santa Ana criminal defense attorney who knows how law enforcement operates and the way in which prosecutors will try your case. Ideally, your lawyer should be able to predict what lies ahead and the various strengths and weaknesses in the case against you. Failure to do so can result in harsh consequences, affecting both you and your family for many years to come.

Mr. Schaffer is a former Senior Orange County Deputy District Attorney, working for 18 years as a gang homicide prosecutor and training deputy DA's in all the factors needed to conduct a successful trial. The experience of working on the tough, high-profile cases in Orange County, particularly on murder charges, provides us with a distinct advantage in our firm's criminal defense actions. By knowing the types of evidence, witnesses and tactics that will be used against you, we formulate defensive strategies designed to produce the best resolution possible to the charges you face.

Murder Charges in Santa Ana

According to the California Penal Code, "Murder is the unlawful killing of a human being, or a fetus, with malice aforethought." It differs from manslaughter in that there is the factor of the accused developing and having the thought to take another's life, before the action was done. In order for the prosecution to win their case, they must prove that your actions were done with the requisite "malice aforethought." In addition, they must show that you understood that your actions would result in the unlawful killing of another.

If you are convicted of second degree murder, you can be incarcerated in the state prison for 15 years to a life. Conviction for murder in the first degree carries with it a prison sentence of 25 years to life, without the possibility of parole. In certain circumstances you can be sentenced to the death penalty.

With our understanding of how the prosecution works, sometimes a murder charge can be negotiated down, resulting in less harsh penalties. Other times, the prosecution may lack evidence to prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

Act quickly if you or a loved one is accused of murder. Immediately contact a Santa Ana murder defense lawyer from our firm for help.