Homicide is the most heinous of all violent crimes because it results in the death of another human being, and therefore requires the most expedient action. If you are accused, arrested, or charged with any type of violent crime it is imperative that you act swiftly and contact Keith J Bruno, an experienced and relentless criminal defense attorney, who understands the importance of immediate response.

In California, the government is represented by an arsenal of prosecutors, police, criminal investigators, crime labs, and forensic specialists who are judged by their number of convictions. Therefore it is key to retain counsel who understands this and has the skill, experience and courage to combat these forces on your behalf. Attorney Keith Bruno maneuvers through these systems daily and understands the strategies of opposing counsel at the District Attorney's Office.

Intentional & Negligent Killings
Homicide charges are categorized as intentional or voluntary killings such as murder and manslaughter, or as negligent killings such as involuntary manslaughter. Conviction carries serious penalties and punishments, with spiraling consequences that can impact the rest of your life. Virtually every homicide case is a life case and must be treated as such. In some circumstances the State can ask for the death penalty.

First & Second Degree Murder
California Penal Code 187 defines murder as "the unlawful killing of another human being with malice aforethought" This particular section of the Penal Code has been popularized by police and prosecutor themed motion pictures and television shows. However, in real life, these charges are not nearly as glamorous and not nearly as thoroughly investigated. In addition, aside from simply a dead body, there are many conduct and status enhancements that can serve to aggravate the sentencing for this crime. There are other key sections of the Penal Code that will determine the type of homicide that is being charged.

California Penal Code 189 defines first degree murder. Murder committed deliberately and in a premeditated manner is considered murder in the first degree. All others are considered murder in the second degree. Section 189 also outlines the Felony Murder Rule that says any killing that occurs in the commission of an inherently dangerous felony is treated as first degree murder. Inherently dangerous felonies include; arson, rape, carjacking, robbery, burglary, and kidnapping among others.

Manslaughter-Voluntary Involuntary & Vehicular
California Penal Code 192 defines voluntary manslaughter. This intentional act occurs because a person is adequately provoked, or due to an unreasonable attempt at self-defense. This charge can result from an unsuccessful prosecution for first degree murder. It can also be used as a compromise verdict when the jury is unable to agree on a first degree murder charge.

Involuntary Manslaughter is unintentional and occurs when a misdemeanor is committed, or because of gross negligence. This charge can result from an unsuccessful prosecution for murder. Likewise, it can also be used as a compromise verdict when the jury is unable to agree on a murder charge.

Vehicular Manslaughter is unintentional and occurs when an unlawful act as a driver of a motor vehicle is committed. As the name indicates, this is the crime of killing someone while driving a vehicle. It can, but does not have to involve alcohol. It can also involve doing some other illegal act that constitutes a vehicle violation, where, in the course of committing that violation, a death occurs.

It is crucial to hire an attorney that has an incisive understanding of the code in its entirety in order to construct a winning defense. Keith Bruno is the right attorney because he not only has pervasive legal knowledge; he lives for the law and will work tirelessly on your behalf.

Contacting the Law Firm of Keith J Bruno is the best and first step to take if you or someone you know is facing a Homicide charge anywhere in Orange County, Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino or San Diego County. Time is always of the essence when preparing a defense to these very complex charges. Attorney Bruno will meet with you personally at no charge to analyze your case and determine how to proceed. He will then assemble all of the needed resources to construct your defense once the firm is retained. Contact the Law Office of Keith J Bruno online to schedule your no-cost appointment or call 866-973-2999 today. During these turbulent times you need a professional who is passionate about your defense.