Menedez brothers denied parole
After 35 years behind bars, Erik and Lyle Menendez were given a chance at parole. Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Michael Jesic resentenced them...
Attorney Peter Sebastian has tried and won jury trials as a prosecutor and as a defense attorney, including murder.
EXPERIENCED Representation for Complex Criminal Cases
Served in both Los Angeles City and District Attorney's Offices.
My clients have access to me 24/7.
Will outwork and outsmart prosecution.
Will take the time to answer all concerns.
Mr. Sebastian not only served as an L.A. prosecutor, but has been a long-time adjunct Professor of Evidence at the University of West Los Angeles School of Law.
As an Evidence Professor and former prosecutor, Mr. Sebastian knows what you’re up against and what to do about it.
“No one can get a better outcome from homicide charges whether through negotiation or trial.”
TRUSTED EXPERT
Mr. Sebastian has the respect not only of former clients, but also of L.A.’s toughest prosecutors.
PC § 187 Murder is a killing done with Malice Aforethought. “Malice” can be found in different ways, but most commonly by proof of intent to kill. There are two degrees to murder, each carrying a different punishment. The most notorious of these is 1st degree degree murder with “special circumstances,” punishable by life in prison without the possibility of parole, or by death. There are twenty one different special circumstances. Among the most common are lying in wait, multiple murders, and killing done to silence a witness. Without special circumstances, 1st degree murder is distinguished from 2nd degree murder by premeditation and deliberation – more or less, a plan – and carries a 25 to life sentence.
All other murder is 2nd degree and is 15 to life. The sentences of both degrees of murder can be increased by “enhancements” such as if a gun is used. This can double the sentence.
There is also PC § 189 Felony Murder which is charged if a death occurs during the commission of twelve possible felonies, including rape, robbery, arson, carjacking and burglary.
There are storied defenses to this crime, as old as the crime itself, such as self defense, and alibi. But this crime, like any other, has elements which must be proved. The battle ground of a murder case will be wherever there is any weakness in the evidence supporting the prosecution’s theory of the case.
PC § 667/187 Attempted Murder is often charged in an aggravated assault case, where the potential for death was present and carries up to 9 years imprisonment or 7 to life.
PC § 192(a) Manslaughter is a killing that does not amount to murder because of mitigating circumstances at the time and carries up to 11 years in prison, or up to 4 years if PC § 192(b) Involuntary Manslaughter due to recklessness.
PC § 192(c) Vehicular Manslaughter is a wobbler, but carries a penalty of up to 10 years in prison if “Gross Negligence” and/or intoxication is found.
Defending homicide crimes requires dedication. Because the stakes are so high, there is no room for error. Mr. Sebastian personally handles all his cases and thoroughly explores all aspects of the alleged facts and witness allegations. His investigator is a relentless former LAPD homicide detective and his experts are the best in their field.
NOT GUILTY!! 5 Stars. Peter is Awesome. If you are looking for an attorney with integrity and who is willing to REALLY FIGHT for you………..than you need Peter Sebastian. Peter was very supportive, actually answers your calls and/or returns them in a timely manner. He truly cares about his clients.
Peter was instrumental in minimizing my daughters sentence and advising her in her course of action in her court case. This man knows his law and the system in LA County. The positive outcome was solely due to his experience. He is a really nice person as well!
You only need to speak with Peter once or twice to realize you are speaking with an attorney of an entirely different echelon. His career accolades and reviews speak for themselves, and I'm just another extremely satisfied client who made a big mistake. If it wasn't for Peter, his intricate understanding of the California Penal Code, and his knowledge of abnormal diversions, I wouldn't be able to have a second chance working in a career I absolutely love. Peter has a tenacious and relentless attitude towards pursuing the best possible outcome for his clients. He saved me my licenses and ANY guilty plea as long as I honor my end of the bargain with Los Angeles Co., and keep the greasy side down. Without his expertise, I would have been absolutely SOL. Thank you Mr. Sebastian!
I really never leave reviews, but this is a must!! Peter Sebastian is an amazing lawyer. He is the most honest and dedicated lawyer I have ever met!! He is amazing he is straight forward and explains every step of the way! if there is anything you don't understand he will always be available to answer your questions. Peter will fight your you until the end!
Peter is a great attorney, also a great person overall. He got me the best deal possible and couldn't be happier with how my case went!
I 100% recommend Peter Sebastian in any court matter. Excellent criminal defense lawyer. My brother had an offer of 19yrs BUT thanks to Peter he should be out in less than a year!!. My brother had the toughest district attorney in PASADENA but she couldn't keep up to Peter. We were lucky to have been referred to him. He showed he actually cared about our case....I met with 5 lawyers prior to him and one gave me a feeling like they cared. He took this case under his wing and made miracles. Thank you Peter for everything!!!!!
Peter Sebastian was referred to me by a relative and I couldn't be any more happy. He was very attentive and kept me in the loop regarding my case details throughout the whole process. He understood the hardships of student debt and managed to work out a payment plan with me. I'm very comfortable with having Peter as a defense attorney and will be in the future as well.
Peter is an amazing lawyer and helped me during a very difficult time. He is very knowledgeable and thorough with his work and guided me through the whole legal process. I can't recommend him enough.
Yes. My office is in Century City at the corner of Century Park East and Santa Monica Blvd. Call to make an appointment.
Yes. I typically have close contact with my clients and their loved ones. I will keep everyone updated on the case as allowed respecting the attorney/client privilege.
A murder case may take anywhere from six months to several years depending on the complexity of the case, if there are co-defendants, etc.
I do not. Resentencing is an ever-changing and complex area of criminal law. I can make a referral.
For professional reasons, I will not give my opinion of another lawyer's work. I can still discuss your case with you, though.
If you or a loved one is charged with a homicide crime, Los Angeles Murder Defense Lawyer Peter Sebastian, will fight tirelessly to protect your rights and get you the best possible outcome. Don’t wait — call (310) 281-2869 now to start building a strong defense.
After 35 years behind bars, Erik and Lyle Menendez were given a chance at parole. Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Michael Jesic resentenced them...
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If you need an attorney that cares, who is professional and who will fight for you . Then Peter Sebastian is the only attorney you should call. He is straightforward and the honest person. If I ever need attorney advice he will always be my go-to guy. Thank you Peter Sebastian for your great work!