In California, being convicted of attempted murder can come with penalties that are nearly as serious as the penalties that come with a murder conviction. If you’re facing this charge then you need to work with a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Reach out to Chambers Law Firm at 714-760-4088 right away to set up a consultation.
Requirements for an attempted murder conviction
In order for the prosecution to get a conviction on attempted murder, there are two elements they must prove beyond a reasonable doubt. First, they must that you took at least one step toward killing another person (even though that step was ineffective) and that you had intent to kill that person. If the prosecution can convince a jury that both of those elements are true, then you could be facing a lifetime behind bars.
Types of attempted murder and potential consequences
There are two types of attempted murder in California: first-degree and second-degree attempted murder. A conviction of first-degree murder comes with consequences that may include life in prison with the possibility of parole, fines of up to $10,000, and victim restitution. A conviction of second-degree attempted murder can result in up to nine years in state prison, up to $10,000 in fines, and victim restitution.
If you used a gun in your attempt to commit murder, then ten years can be added to your sentence. If you fired that gun then 20 years can be added.
Potential defense options against charges of attempted murder
One defense option is to show that you didn’t have specific intent to kill the person in question. If you didn’t specifically intend to kill them then this is not an offense you’re guilty of. another defense option is to show that you didn’t take a direct step toward committing the crime. Even if you had a very specific plan, if you didn’t take a step toward committing that crime, then you’re not guilty of attempted murder.
That said, remember that if you take a first step toward completing your plan and then stop, you’re still guilty of attempted murder. There are other defense options, such as showing that you were actually acting in self-defense, or that you are falsely accused all together.
Attempted murder is a strike – let a defense attorney help you
In the state of California, a conviction of attempted murder is a strike in our Three Strikes law. It can also come with its own significant penalties, up to and including life in prison. This is not a charge you want to take on yourself. Instead, reach out to a criminal defense attorney who has experience with these cases.
When you work with Chambers Law Firm, you can count on our entire team being behind you. We’ll begin by analyzing the evidence against you and advising you on your specific options. You can then make the most informed decision about how to best proceed.
