MURDER & HOMICIDE LAW — CALIFORNIA
Second Degree Murder in California — PC §187 Implied Malice
Second degree murder carries 15 years to life in state prison. It is murder with malice but without the premeditation and deliberation required for first degree. Implied malice and Watson murder are the most common theories.
Reviewed by Daniel S. Rubin, CA Bar 302093 · Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney
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Second Degree Murder California — At a Glance
- Law / Code
- PC §187 / PC §188
- Classification
- Felony — Life Sentence
- Maximum Penalty
- 15 years to life in state prison
- Probation Eligible
- Never
- Strike Offense
- Yes — violent felony
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