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Irvine Murder Defense Attorney

Murder charges are the most serious crimes with which one can be charged. Fortunately, Irvine has a low crime rate, especially for violent crimes. In 2010, there were zero murders or manslaughters in Irvine. But the fact remain that crime can happen anywhere, and if you or someone you love is accused of murder, it is incredibly important to be represented by an experienced Irvine murder defense attorney.

In California, murder is the killing of another person with “malice aforethought”. Malice aforethought means with premeditation. Penal Code section 187(a) deals with murder in California, and there are several levels of murder. While first degree murder involves the element of premeditation, second degree murder is similar to first degree murder in the sense that both are intentional, but second degree murder does not involve the element of premeditation. While both are incredibly serious crimes, the penalties for both are different in severity so it is important to make establish a distinction between the two. For example, someone committing second degree still has a full understanding of their reckless actions, but they do not have those intentions until the instance the murder occurs. An example of second degree murder would be where someone acts in certain way to cause serious bodily injury onto another party with the risk of it killing them, but with death not being their initial intentions. Murder can be in the first or second degree, or can also be “felony murder,” which is causing the death of another person while committing another felony crime. The felony murder rule is a rule that allows someone to be charged with first degree murder if it occurred during the course of a felony. This includes situations where the death was accidental or situations where there were multiple people involved in the felony crime. During such circumstances where there are numerous people involved, such as when there is a getaway driver at the scene of a robbery, if a death were to occur, it anyone involved can be charged based on the felony murder rule even if they were not the ones to personally do the killing.

The Irvine murder defense attorney at the Johnson Criminal Law Group knows that the punishments for murder are severe. California has the death penalty, so if someone is convicted of murder the possible punishment runs up to execution. Even if it is not a capital crime, first degree murder carries a sentence of 25 years to life in prison, and can be elevated to life without parole in certain cases. Even the lower degree crime of second degree murder carries a penalty of 15 years to life, which can also be aggravated or increased based on the circumstances of the crime.

An accusation of murder is gravely serious. Regardless of the crime or guilt or innocence of the defendant, the Irvine murder defense attorney at the Johnson Criminal Law Group will work as hard as possible to defend and gain the best result for her client. Contact us by phone at (949) 622-5522 or through an online message today.

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Criminal Defense Case Results

Mr. R was charged with embezzling close to $100,000 as a utility salesperson using a scheme to steal customers’ identities. Client avoided any jail time and received probation.

Mr. P was charged with embezzling equipment from John Wayne Airport while working as a contractor. Our office negotiated a civil compromise, resulting in the dismissal of felony charges and sealing his arrest record.

Mr. W. was charged with eight counts, including domestic violence, child endangerment, and criminal threats. Our office negotiated an offer of one year in therapy and then a dismissal of all charges.

Mr. H. was found by police passed out in his vehicle with drugs out in the open. Our office was successful in obtaining a diversion out of the criminal justice system and ultimately a dismissal.

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Refreshing & Life-Changing Experience

I really appreciate everything she has done for me; I cannot thank her enough! Ms. Johnson-Norris did an absolutely thorough job by answering any and all questions that I had. She called me with updates and preferences on how I should be handling the case, which made the whole process very reassuring. The staff was very up to date with all of the follow-up information that was involved with my case that was also extremely beneficial. Ms. Johnson-Norris had a very reassuring aspect about her that made it very easy to let her handle the case. If anything were to go wrong with anyone I am associated with, she will be the lawyer of choice. I really appreciate everything that she has done for me, I can not thank her enough!

Mr. D., a criminal defense client

Ms. Johnson-Norris was recommended to me by many sources. She was the perfect fit, financially and professionally. I did what she told me to do to get the best possible resolution and it definitely paid off. I would recommend Lauren Johnson-Norris to anyone and am truly grateful for her services. She gave me peace of mind in some bad times. Thanks, Ms. Johnson-Norris!

A client charged with an alcohol-related misdemeanor

Thank you so much for all your help with our case. It was a pleasure meeting you and I appreciate all you’ve done for my family. You are the best attorney that we could have and we are so grateful that we met you. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

A juvenile delinquency client’s parent

Ms. Johnson-Norris always made me feel comfortable and confident. I was able to trust her and feel at ease very quickly. I felt like she was always on top of things and she left no questions unanswered and made that stressful time much easier for me.

E.K.

Ms. Johnson-Norris is the absolute definition of an attorney. She not only helped me with my petty theft case, but she also gave me peace of mind during these difficult times. The reason I would recommend Ms. Johnson-Norris is much more than just ‘she gets the job done.’ Rather, she works for you and gets results by taking the burden off you! I want to thank her for her time and encourage anyone who needs help to look to her for answers.

Nicole

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Criminal Defense FaQ

What immediate steps will you take to protect my rights?

We provide immediate crisis command by reviewing the allegations against you and intervening with law enforcement to prevent further exposure. From the moment you retain the Firm, we act as your shield, managing all communications and executing a decisive strategy to protect your liberty and reputation.

We prioritize discretion and exposure management. We understand that a public allegation can be as damaging as a conviction; therefore, our strategy focuses on minimizing the visibility of your case while challenging the prosecution’s narrative to preserve your standing in the community.

We begin by meticulously reviewing the allegations to determine if the conduct even constitutes a crime under the law. We then scrutinize the prosecution’s evidence against the highest standard — proof beyond a reasonable doubt. By analyzing the “who, what, when, where, and how,” we identify the natural questions a jury will have, allowing us to build an expert strategy that derails the prosecutor’s narrative.

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Yes, our firm offers comprehensive legal services in Orange County with a unique focus on “crossover” cases where criminal and juvenile law intersect. Johnson Criminal Law Group provides the specialized expertise necessary to navigate investigations that threaten parental rights and family stability.

When you partner with Johnson Criminal Law Group, you receive 24/7 responsiveness and a clear, strategic plan designed to resolve your legal emergency decisively. We balance aggressive defense strategies with genuine human connection, ensuring you are treated with the respect and transparency you deserve during a crisis

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