Whittier Homicide Defense Lawyer

Skilled Litigator Defends Clients in Pico Rivera, Montebello, La Mirada, & La Habra Facing Homicide Charges

Homicide, the unlawful killing of another person, is severely punished in our society, with penalties that may lead to a lifetime behind bars. Whether you face murder, manslaughter, or another violent crime charge, you deserve an experienced defense attorney who will assert your rights in the criminal justice system. At the Law Office of J. David Munoz, we have both the skill and background to defend people accused of committing homicide. Based on the facts of your case, we will seek the best possible outcome, whether that’s an acquittal, sentence reduction, or plea agreement.

Proven Defense Strategies for Murder and Manslaughter Charges

In most instances, killings that are presumed to be willful and premeditated carry the toughest punishments. Accordingly, these cases, often referred to as first-degree murder prosecutions, demand a thorough investigation of the alleged crime and the defendant’s purported actions. Whenever possible, an effective attorney will work to reduce the allegation to a second-degree count or another type of charge where the element of premeditation does not exist. A murder that occurs without forethought or a manslaughter charge where the malice necessary to prove murder cannot be demonstrated carries a more lenient sentence.

Depending on the circumstances of your case, we may be able to offer a defense based on these factors:

• Mistaken identity
• Justified homicide, as in self-defense
• Action taken to protect others
• Accidental death committed in the course of a lawful activity

It’s important for defendants in any criminal case to understand that the burden of proof lies with the prosecution and that all defendants are considered innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. When we represent you in felony cases such as murder or manslaughter, we ensure your rights are upheld.

Thorough Examination of Evidence to Challenge Homicide Accusations

A homicide investigation can involve the collection and analysis of various types of evidence, including scientific data and witness statements. Because jurors tend to put substantial faith in the reliability and conclusiveness of science, forensic evidence is one of the most powerful tools in a homicide case. When it can bolster a case, we conduct meticulous reviews of evidence such as autopsy records, blood splatter and gunpowder analyses, firearm tests, DNA reports, and other scientific documents. We can match the state’s experts with highly educated, knowledgeable forensic scientists. Likewise, we understand how witnesses can engage in deception or commit honest mistakes, especially when they’re feeling the pressure from powerful government authorities. By conducting an exhaustive investigation of the witnesses and relevant facts and using our trial experience, we can skillfully attack false and unsupported statements.

Our firm knows that nothing less than your freedom is at stake when you face a homicide charge. You can rely on our trial-tested advocacy and knowledge of California law to provide a diligent defense that seeks to preserve that freedom.