Difference Between 1st, 2nd, and 3rd-Degree Murders in California

Understanding the differences between first-degree, second-degree, and third-degree murder charges is essential if you or someone you care about is facing homicide allegations in California. These distinctions impact the severity of the charges, the legal strategy, and most importantly, the penalties upon conviction.

At KN Law Firm, we provide experienced and aggressive legal defense for murder charges throughout Glendale, Los Angeles, and Southern California. If you’re facing a serious criminal charge, don’t wait—call us now at (888) 950-0011 for a free consultation.

What Is Murder Under California Law?

Under California Penal Code § 187, murder is defined as the unlawful killing of a human being (or fetus) with malice aforethought. While all murder is treated as a serious offense, the degree of the murder determines both the legal classification and the potential penalties.

⚖️ First-Degree Murder (PC 187 & 189)

What It Is:

First-degree murder is the most serious form of homicide. It includes killings that are:

• Premeditated and deliberate
• Carried out with malice aforethought
• Result from a felony murder rule (e.g., during a robbery, rape, or kidnapping)

California also lists specific methods that automatically qualify as first-degree murder, such as:

• Drive-by shootings
• Using explosives or poison
• Torture
• Lying in wait

Key Elements:

• Intent to kill
• Premeditation
• Deliberation

Penalties:

• 25 years to life in state prison
• Life without parole (for special circumstances like murder of a police officer or multiple murders)
• Death penalty (though rarely applied in California)

⚖️ Second-Degree Murder

What It Is:

Second-degree murder involves an intentional killing without premeditation. It’s a serious felony but lacks the planning aspect that elevates it to first-degree.

Examples:

• Killing someone in the heat of passion
• Causing a death by reckless behavior (e.g., drunk driving with extreme disregard for life)

Key Elements:

• Intentional act
• No advance planning
• Malice aforethought still present

Penalties:

• 15 years to life in prison
• Up to 25 years to life if the victim was a peace officer
• Sentence enhancements for use of firearms or prior convictions

⚖️ Third-Degree Murder: Does It Exist in California?

California law does not officially recognize third-degree murder. That classification exists only in Pennsylvania, Florida, and Minnesota.

In these states, third-degree murder typically refers to:

• Killings that were not intentional
• No premeditation or specific intent to kill
• Conduct that shows disregard for human life

In California, actions that might qualify as third-degree murder elsewhere are more likely prosecuted as:

• Involuntary manslaughter (PC 192(b))
• Vehicular manslaughter
• Or in rare cases, as second-degree murder with a “depraved heart” theory

🔄 Comparing the Degrees of Murder

*Note: Third-degree murder is not recognized in California.

⚠️ Why You Need a California Murder Defense Lawyer

Whether you’re charged with first-degree, second-degree, or facing a homicide-related charge like manslaughter, your life is on the line. California prosecutors are aggressive in pursuing homicide convictions—and the penalties are often life-altering.

At KN Law Firm, we:

• Scrutinize every aspect of the prosecution’s case
• Build powerful defenses around lack of intent, self-defense, or mental state
• Seek dismissals, reduced charges, or alternative sentencing

Serving Glendale, Los Angeles, and All of Southern California

KN Law Firm proudly serves clients across: Glendale, Los Angeles, Pasadena, Burbank, Van Nuys and surrounding SoCal communities. If you or a loved one is under investigation or already facing charges for murder or manslaughter, contact us immediately.

We offer 100% free consultations for all criminal defense matters. Don’t face a murder charge alone—have our experienced team fight for your freedom. Call us now: (888) 950-0011.