Hire An Experienced Homicide Defense Attorney in San Gabriel, CA

Attorney Jonathon Perliss
Written By
Jonathon Perliss

Homicide Charges

When you're facing homicide charges in San Gabriel, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Your freedom, future, and life as you know it are all on the line. At Perliss Law Firm, we understand the gravity of this case, and we bring dedicated representation to some of the most serious criminal charges in California. We provide our clients with clarity, direction, and fierce advocacy when they need it most.

With over 35 years of experience in criminal defense and a unique background in prosecution, our legal team understands how both sides of the courtroom think. That insider knowledge allows us to build aggressive and strategic defenses aimed at protecting your rights and pursuing the best possible outcome.You don’t have to face this alone.

Reach out today for a free consultation and speak directly with Attorney Jonathon Perliss. We’re ready to listen, advise, and fight for you.

California Lawyers
Avvo Rating
best of best review winner 2025 badge
Pasadena Magazine Top Attorney
Perliss Law Firm 2025 badge expertise
Avvo Clients Choice

Our Simple Process

1
A telephone
CONTACT US
2
A document
FREE CONSULTATION
3
A magnifying glass
CASE INVESTIGATION
4
A trophy
RESULTS

Understanding Homicide Charges in California

inside of a prison

In California, homicide charges range in severity depending on the circumstances of the alleged crime. These can include:

First-Degree Murder –

A premeditated, intentional killing

Second-Degree Murder –

An intentional killing without premeditation

Voluntary Manslaughter –

A killing that occurs in the “heat of passion” or under significant provocation

Involuntary Manslaughter –

A killing resulting from criminal negligence or during the commission of a non-felony

Vehicular Manslaughter –

A death caused by negligent or reckless driving

Each type of homicide charge carries serious penalties, including life in prison or even the death penalty. Your best defense starts with a knowledgeable and experienced attorney.

At Perliss Law Firm, we regularly handle homicide cases and build personalized strategies to fight for our clients’ futures.

Potential Penalties for a Homicide Conviction

A conviction for any form of homicide in California can result in:

Life imprisonment with or without the possibility of parole

Decades of incarceration, depending on the severity of the charge

Hefty fines and court fees

Permanent loss of firearm and civil rights

Immigration consequences, including deportation (for non-citizens)

Every case is different. We tailor your defense to the facts, evidence, and circumstances unique to your situation.

Common Legal Defenses in Homicide Cases
a lawyer looking at a document

Not every homicide case leads to a conviction—and not every accusation reflects the full truth. We explore all potential defenses, including:

Self-Defense –

You acted to protect yourself or others from imminent harm.

Accidental Death –

The incident was a tragic accident, not a crime.

False Accusation or Mistaken Identity –

We challenge the credibility of witnesses and evidence.

Lack of Intent –

Especially in manslaughter cases, proving there was no criminal intent can be a key defense.

Constitutional Violations –

Unlawful searches, Miranda violations, and coerced confessions can result in the suppression of evidence.

Every case is different. We tailor your defense to the facts, evidence, and circumstances unique to your situation.

What to Expect When You Work with Perliss Law Firm

Choosing a homicide defense attorney isn’t just about credentials. It’s about trust, communication, and dedicated action. When you work with Perliss Law Firm, you can expect:

1
Free In-Person Consultation –

We take the time to hear your side of the story and explain what comes next based on your charges.

2
Thorough Case Evaluation –

We analyze the evidence, identify potential weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and begin building a customized defense strategy.

3
Direct Access to Your Attorney –

You’ll work directly with Attorney Jonathon Perliss, who brings decades of courtroom experience to your defense.

4
Clear Communication –

We explain every step in plain terms so you’re never left in the dark about your case.

5
Prompt Responses & Same-Day Availability –

When time is critical, we act fast. In many cases, we can meet the same day you call.

6
Multilingual Support –

We provide services in both English and Mandarin to better serve our diverse community.

From start to finish, our goal is to deliver calm, professional, and highly effective legal support when it matters most. Your future deserves nothing less.

Schedule a
Free Consultation

Office Hours - Mon-Fri: 9:30am to 5pm
Legal Disclaimer

The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. The Perliss Law Firm team is licensed to practice law in California. We invite you to contact us, but please be aware that contacting us does not establish an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until an attorney-client relationship has been established.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

A Legacy of Amazing Results

CONSPIRACY & BANK ROBBERY
Not Guilty, Jury Trial
The Santa Monica branch of a major bank was robbed at gunpoint. My client worked at the bank and was charged with setting up the crime, meeting with the accomplice and teaching him how, when and where to do the robbery, and giving him the gun. My client was facing over fifteen years in prison.
DRUNK DRIVING
Not Guilty, Jury Trial
My client was prosecuted for driving with a blood-alcohol level above the legal limit. The defense maintained the police did not comply with their regulations when they administered the breath test without waiting the requisite fifteen minutes after initial detention.
KIDNAPPING-ROBBERY
Not Guilty, Jury Trial
My client was arrested while sitting in a van wearing a ski mask. There were two women tied up in the back of the van. Jewelry from the women's house was found in my client's pocket and a gun was found underneath his seat.
MURDER
Not Guilty, Jury Trial
My client was charged with first-degree murder after witnesses allegedly saw him shoot the victim. There was evidence that the victim and my client had an argument earlier that day. The defense was mistaken identity. He was facing life in prison.
PETTY THEFT/SHOPLIFTING
Not Guilty, Jury Trial
My client exited a large department store carrying a bag of stolen merchandise. He was detained by security five feet outside the store, but still inside the larger shopping mall. He claimed he panicked when he realized that his small children were missing, and he went searching for them. The children were found inside the Mall's pet shop. The prosecutor argued that my client planned the incident.
SPOUSAL ABUSE
Not Guilty, Jury Trial
My client, a police officer, was accused of pummeling his wife with his fists. The wife immediately went to the local police department to report the crime and gave a lengthy videotaped statement. My client claimed that the wife was very angry at him for what she believed was his cheating on her and she fabricated the crime.
PROSTITUTION
Not Guilty, Jury Trial
My client was charged with agreeing to a sex act with an undercover police officer. The defense was that the officer exaggerated the conversation and the client never agreed to the act.
GRAND THEFT
HUNG JURY, DISMISSED
My client was charged with first-degree murder after witnesses allegedly saw him shoot the victim. There was evidence that the victim and my client had an argument earlier that day. The defense was mistaken identity. He was facing life in prison.

Why Choose Perliss Law Firm for Your Homicide Defense

A man handcuffed.

Your choice of attorney could mean the difference between a conviction and a second chance. At Perliss Law Firm, we offer:

35+ years of experience in criminal defense

Former prosecution experience gives us insight into how your case will be handled from the other side

Personalized, compassionate representation

Bilingual services in English and Mandarin

Same-day and free consultations for urgent legal matters

We’re not here to judge—we’re here to fight. With calm determination and aggressive legal strategy, we stand by your side from start to finish.

Frequently Asked Questions About Homicide Charges
Is homicide always charged as murder?

No. Homicide refers to the act of one person killing another, but not all homicides are classified as murder. Manslaughter and accidental killings are also forms of homicide with different legal consequences.

What should I do if I’m being investigated?

Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney present. Contact us immediately to protect your rights.

Can homicide charges be reduced or dropped?

Yes, especially with strong legal representation. We may be able to negotiate a lesser charge or uncover evidence that leads to dismissal.

What if it was an accident?

California law makes a distinction between intentional and accidental killings. If it was truly an accident, we will build a case that supports this narrative.

Serving San Gabriel and Surrounding Areas
a lawyer shaking hands with a client

Perliss Law Firm proudly serves clients in San Gabriel and throughout surrounding LA County communities, including Pasadena, Alhambra, Temple City, and Monterey Park.

We’re committed to making trusted legal representation accessible and effective for those facing the most serious accusations.

Contact Us Today

If you or a loved one has been accused of homicide in California, don’t wait. Early legal intervention is critical in protecting your future. Schedule your free consultation with Perliss Law Firm today. We’ll explain your charges, outline your options, and begin crafting a defense strategy tailored to you.

Your life is too important to leave in uncertain hands. Trust Perliss Law Firm to protect what matters most.

Schedule a
Free Consultation

Office Hours - Mon-Fri: 9:30am to 5pm
Legal Disclaimer

The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. The Perliss Law Firm team is licensed to practice law in California. We invite you to contact us, but please be aware that contacting us does not establish an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until an attorney-client relationship has been established.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Criminal Defense Law Firm Perliss Law Firm

Why Choose Us?

1
We are experts from both sides of the courtroom.
Former California Prosecutor Now Fighting For You.
2
Dedicated to the aggressive and zealous representation
Often able to achieve results that other lawyers cannot.
3
Generational trial law experience.
Trial lawyer of over 40 years.
4
Experienced lawyers and staff members
We have the means to help you with your criminal case, and keep you informed throughout the process.

Schedule a
Free Consultation

Office Hours - Mon-Fri: 9:30am to 5pm
Legal Disclaimer

The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. The Perliss Law Firm team is licensed to practice law in California. We invite you to contact us, but please be aware that contacting us does not establish an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until an attorney-client relationship has been established.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Perliss Law Firm
Sign up for our newsletter for essential legal insights and tips!
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
By subscribing, you agree to our Privacy Policy and provide consent to receive updates from our firm.
Copyright © 2025 Perliss Law Firm. All Rights Reserved.
Designed by:
Lab Coat Marketing