The punishment for murder in California varies depending on the circumstances. First-degree murder carries a sentence of 25 years to life, while second-degree murder has a sentence of 15 years to life. Enhancements such as gang activity or gun use can add extra prison time. If convicted of murder, you’ll also face potential fines of up to $10,000 and gain one strike under California’s Three Strikes Law.
Costa Mesa Murder Lawyer
Murder Attorney In Costa Mesa, CA
Murder is arguably the most serious crime that can be committed against another person, as it involves the intentional taking of a life. If you’ve been accused of murdering someone, you could face penalties as serious as life in prison. You need to take the situation seriously and hire a Costa Mesa murder lawyer as soon as possible.
Trust Goodman Criminal Litigation
Jacqueline Goodman, the founding attorney here at The Law Office of Jacqueline Goodman, is ready to take on your murder case and provide you with an aggressive defense against these serious charges. She is deeply familiar with California murder laws and penalties and is prepared to bring her full experience and skill to bear on helping you beat your charges.
Ready to defend your rights? Schedule your consultation with our Murder Attorney In Costa Mesa at 714-879-5770!
Renowned Success Rate
Criminal cases are often complicated. There are two sides to every story, and it is important that the court sees the situation clearly. We can help defend you in your criminal case and make sure your perspective is heard.
Why Hire a Murder Lawyer?
In 2024, Orange County had a homicide rate of 1.8 per 100,000 residents. That’s 73% lower than nearby Los Angeles County’s rate of 6.5 per 100,000 residents, but it still indicates a substantial problem with violent crime. As of 2023, 71% of homicides in the OC involved a firearm. Over two out of five male homicide deaths occurred during the commission of another crime, and more than one in three female homicide deaths involved domestic violence.
It doesn’t matter who you’re being accused of having killed or how you allegedly committed the crime. If you’re facing homicide charges, you need to hire a murder lawyer right away. Your Costa Mesa murder attorney will be able to help you decide whether you want to take a plea deal or go to trial and come up with an effective defense strategy should you decide to take your case to court.
Thank you, Jacqueline Goodman!! I appreciate everything your law office has done to support in this case. Grateful for finally able to see a date, he will be able to return home.
- Anonymous
If you value your life, reputation and your future you must hire Atty Jacqueline Goodman. Just when i thought i had no options but to go to jail and get a conviction, Atty Goodman showed me otherwise and gave me a second chance and got me diversion with no conviction; she gave me my life back. She will fight for…
- Jmario S.
It is with tremendous thanks and a grateful heart that we let you know how much we appreciated your expertise, advice and phone calls on [client's name] behalf. You are a person of service and dedication.
- Former client’s parents
I don't know where to start. Honestly, I don't think I could possibly write anything that would come close to describing Mrs. Goodman's Skill as a Lawyer , she truly is remarkable at what she does. Do yourself a favor, if your in a bind, and are looking for a well respected lawyer that can produce results.... Call Jacqueline! I…
- Sharif A.
Ms Goodman and her staff were beyond helpful. I was in an extremely difficult situation that I hadn’t been in before and needed help. I was referred to Jackie and her office who were extremely helpful. Jackie and her team were extremely empathetic and knowledgeable. They were quick to respond, took action, and kept me informed. Thank you Ms Goodman…
- Nick K.
Ms.Goodman has been an amazing and thorough lawyer representing my family. She has shown up to each court date, being prepared and ready to speak to the judge. She has been a great communicator with my family and kept us informed along the way. She is authentic, and will go the long mile on your case. Choose her to represent…
- Elizabeth E.
I needed an appointment with Ms. Jacqueline Goodman and it was urgent. The best part was that she called me back immediately and I did not have to drive an hour to see her. The first meeting is free and she spoke with me for a lengthy time and she made me feel like for the first time in seeking…
- Mary P.
Ms Goodman was excellent an very professional. She took the time to understand our concerns an worries. I had 2 really bad cases facing 10+ years for trafficking, sales, an distribution between the both ... she was able to get me the best deal an walked away with probation an a new look at life. I will always recommend her…
- Joe G.
Ms. Goodman and her team is by far the best in Southern California. I literally had zero hope of getting anything but prison time on my current case and Ms. Goodman somehow got me an interview for probation. I can say it hasn’t been easy and she’s been doing a lot out of love more than any other attorney would…
- Former Client
The court was offering 9 years for 459pc. After retaining her I got the deal I wanted and even better I was free after serving just 2 years. She's an amazing attorney that you can count on.
- Aliya J.
I can't even begin to express how amazing Jacqueline was when I worked with her for a close friend's case. She was always a quick text away, and when we worried she was the vote of confidence we needed to keep going. Her office staff was also SO easy to work with. Her closing statement moved me, the family, and…
- Caleigha C.
Best lawyer! Jacqueline Goodman is an amazing lawyer, she knows her law well. She helped my brother out of a messy situation and she was always easy to contact and gave me all the information that came her way.
- Rosie C.
Jacqueline, was very professional, and knowledgeable. She listened closely, as we discussed my case. I could tell She truly cared about me. I was very pleased the outcome, and would strongly recommend Her. Honest, hard working, and compassion, would describe, Jacquie.
- Dorian C.
Ms. Jacqueline Goodman was a beacon of hope to my daughter at a time when options and hope seemed limited. Her hard work and dedication was an outcome of Excellence. Ms. Goodman’s attention to detail and knowledge of laws are truly unsurpassed. Thank you.
- Ralph S.
Jacqueline is the best! If any of my friends or family found themselves in a situation where they needed a Criminal Defense attorney I would highly recommend her. She and her staff are extremely professional and they know their stuff. I can't say enough good things!
- Travis H.
She was carring and attentive, always up front with information. She truly cares about her clients and works diligently to achieve the best possible outcome. My family and I truly admire and respect this amazing and talented lawyer. She is definitely someone you can count on for the best advice and outcome.
- Chip E.
Great attorney to work with. She's a boss and has some serious attorney swagger. When I walked into the court room with her, everybody stopped and starred. I felt like I was getting represented by a superstar attorney. She'll run circles around any DA.
- Marcus W.
First-Degree vs. Second-Degree Murder in CA
The primary difference between first-degree and second-degree murder is that the former requires proof of malice aforethought. In other words, the prosecution must prove that you intended to kill the alleged victim, or that you acted with a total disregard for human life. Second-degree murder involves causing the death of another person without premeditation.
The punishments for first-degree and second-degree murder in Costa Mesa are also different. First-degree murder carries potential penalties ranging from 25 years to life in prison to life without the possibility of parole, and in limited circumstances, the death penalty. To receive the death penalty or life without parole, one of these special circumstances must apply:
- The murder occurred during the commission of a hate crime.
- The murderer used a weapon of mass destruction.
- The murder was of a law enforcement officer, judge, or firefighter.
- The murder was a result of gang violence.
The punishments for second-degree murder are less severe. The general penalty for second-degree murder is 15 years to life in prison. If the murder was the result of a drive-by shooting, the mandatory minimum is 20 years. If the murder was of a law enforcement officer, the mandatory minimum is 25 years.
Defenses Against Murder
There are three types of defenses to homicide in California:
- Affirmative defenses. Affirmative defenses involve admitting that the defendant committed the crime but proving that they had a lawful justification. Self-defense is the most well-known of affirmative defenses. The castle doctrine, which allows people to use deadly force in the defense of their homes, also falls under this category.
- Innocence. The prosecution must prove the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, so if the lawyer for the defense can prove their potential innocence by providing an alibi or other evidence that they were unable to commit the crime, the jury should acquit.
- Police misconduct. If the police conducted improper searches and seizures or otherwise violated the defendant’s Fourth Amendment rights, any evidence obtained as a result can be thrown out. If the prosecution is unable to provide sufficient evidence not obtained through illegal means, the case will usually be dismissed.
Your lawyer will evaluate all the evidence and the facts of the case before deciding which of these defense strategies will be most effective.
MURDER LAWS FAQ'S
Costa Mesa, CA
Your Costa Mesa Murder Lawyer
If you’ve been accused of killing someone, you need to hire a Costa Mesa murder lawyer right away. You can trust Jacqueline Goodman of Goodman Criminal Litigation to provide you with a robust defense against these serious charges. She is a State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization-Certified Specialist in Criminal Law with years of experience defending clients against the most serious charges. Contact the firm to schedule an initial consultation today.