Attempted Murder Attorney | Bradley R. Corbett

Attempted Crimes California Penal Code Sections 21a and 664

In California there must be more than a preparation to commit a crime. There must be an actual act by the person. There are two elements to be met to satisfy attempted crimes in California. They are 1) The person had specific intent to commit a specific crime and 2) The person acted unsuccessfully in furtherance of the crime. There are three defenses to attempted crimes in California.

Why You Need an Attempted Murder Attorney?

Defending Against Attempted Murder Charges – Penal Code 187

Attempted murder is one of the most serious criminal charges in California, carrying life-altering consequences if convicted. Under Penal Code 187, an individual can be charged with attempted murder if they allegedly made a direct attempt to kill another person but did not succeed. So an attempted murder attorney will definitely be needed. One of the most common scenarios where this charge arises is domestic violence cases involving strangulation. In Vista, San Marcos, Ramona, and Poway, prosecutors aggressively pursue strangulation cases, often elevating domestic violence charges to attempted murder. At the Law Office of Bradley Corbett, we understand that these accusations are often exaggerated, misleading, or based on false claims. We provide aggressive legal defense to protect your rights, reputation, and future.

Understanding Attempted Murder Charges – Penal Code 187

To convict someone of attempted murder, the prosecution must prove:

Intent to Kill – The accused must have had a clear and deliberate intent to kill the alleged victim. Mere physical harm is not enough to prove attempted murder.
A Direct Attempt to Commit the Killing – There must be a direct step taken toward killing someone, not just threats or preparation.

In cases involving strangulation, prosecutors often argue that cutting off someone’s air supply is a clear step toward killing them, leading to attempted murder charges instead of assault or domestic violence. However, intent to kill must still be proven beyond a reasonable doubt, which is where a strong defense is crucial.

Why Strangulation in Domestic Violence Cases Leads to Attempted Murder Charges

Strangulation is often classified as a felony under domestic violence laws. However, prosecutors sometimes escalate charges to attempted murder by arguing:

The act of choking someone is inherently deadly.
A person who applies sustained pressure to the throat intends to kill.
If the alleged victim lost consciousness, it shows an attempt to end their life.

Despite these arguments, not all strangulation cases amount to attempted murder. There are many defenses that can reduce or dismiss these charges, and our team at the Law Office of Bradley Corbett has the experience and skill to fight back.

Potential Defenses Against Attempted Murder Charges

If you are facing attempted murder charges in Vista, San Marcos, Ramona, or Poway, there are several defense strategies that can be used to challenge the case:

Lack of Intent to Kill

The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you intended to kill, not just harm or defend yourself. Many domestic violence cases involve physical altercations, but not attempted murder.

Self-Defense or Defense of Others

If you were acting in self-defense, we can argue that:

You reasonably believed you were in danger.
You used only the necessary force to protect yourself.
The alleged victim was the aggressor.

False Accusations

Domestic violence cases often involve false claims due to:

Custody disputes or divorce battles
Anger, revenge, or emotional manipulation
Lack of physical evidence proving the allegations

We aggressively investigate inconsistencies in the accuser’s statements, police reports, and medical records.

Insufficient Evidence

Many strangulation cases lack concrete evidence. If the medical reports, witness statements, or forensic evidence do not support the charge, we can file a motion to dismiss.

Mistaken Identity or Lack of Witness Credibility

If there is no reliable evidence linking you to the crime, or if the accuser’s statements contradict medical findings, we challenge the credibility of the case.

Penalties for Attempted Murder in California

Attempted murder is a felony with severe consequences, especially if convicted under PC 187. Penalties include:

Life in prison with the possibility of parole (if charged as first-degree attempted murder)
5 to 9 years in state prison (if charged as second-degree attempted murder)
Strike under California’s Three Strikes Law
Fines up to $10,000
Loss of firearm rights and severe immigration consequences for non-citizens

If a deadly weapon was used or the victim suffered great bodily injury, additional sentencing enhancements apply, making a strong defense even more critical.

How the Law Office of Bradley Corbett Fights for You

As one of San Diego County’s top criminal defense attorneys, we have successfully defended clients in Vista, San Marcos, Ramona, and Poway against attempted murder and domestic violence allegations. We use an aggressive defense strategy, which includes:

Examining all evidence for inconsistencies or exaggerations
Challenging unreliable medical reports and witness testimony
Uncovering potential false accusations or ulterior motives
Negotiating with prosecutors to reduce or dismiss charges

If you are accused of attempted murder due to strangulation, you need an experienced attorney who understands the legal and forensic challenges involved.

Why Choose the Law Office of Bradley Corbett?

Years of experience defending attempted murder and domestic violence cases
A proven track record of reducing or dismissing serious felony charges
Aggressive, strategic defense tailored to your case
24/7 legal support – We know these cases are urgent
Free consultation – Get expert advice before speaking to the police

Bradley R. Corbett_Criminal Defense Attorney_Attempted Murder Attorney

Contact Us for a Free Consultation

If you or a loved one is facing attempted murder charges in Vista, San Marcos, Ramona, or Poway, do not wait. These charges carry life-changing consequences, and early intervention by an experienced criminal defense attorney can make all the difference. At the Law Office of Bradley Corbett, we are committed to fighting for your rights and achieving the best possible outcome in your case. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us build your defense. 📍 Proudly serving clients throughout San Diego County, including Vista, San Marcos, Ramona, and Poway.

Contact bradley 24/7 nights & weekends

Don’t wait until it is too late! Delaying or even denying yourself the counsel and strength we can provide you could have life changing consequences. Call us today and let an experienced San Diego criminal defense attorney help you protect your freedoms, life, and family.

Email: Bradley@Bradleycorbettlaw.com

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San Diego Attempted Murder Attorney