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Crime of Passion

A crime of passion is a crime that has been committed under extreme rage or emotional disturbance (commonly referred to as “heat of passion”)—something provoked the defendant, who in the heat of passion, committed the crime. A killing that occurs under the heat of passion is done without premeditation, which essentially reduces a killing from murder to a voluntary manslaughter.

When a crime of passion occurs, the defendant puts forth a provocation defense to lessen the severity of the charge. The classic example is the man who discovers his wife in bed with another man. The man grabs his gun and shoots both of them to death while in the “heat of passion.” The law in most states (including California) is that this killing is viewed not as a murder but rather as voluntary manslaughter.

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At Stephen G. Rodriguez & Partners, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.

  • "God Bless you Stephen, wish you all the successes in life."

    Stephen is a great contact and extremely helpful and knowledgeable. I am glad that I was his client in the past. Top lawyer, top man. God Bless you Stephen, wish you all the successes in life.

    - HS Singh
  • "Don't hesitate to contact them!"

    I was referred to this group of Attorneys. I was started with a low cost made arrangements. My case had to do with assault allegations. The case was dismissed they helped me not to loose my daughter to the system.

    - Adriana C.

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  • Restitution Defendant charged in Federal case with felony Fraud involving several million dollars with a 40 years prison exposure.
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  • Dismissed Defendant arrested for felony Rape.
  • Mistrial Defendant (Los Angeles photographer) charged with assault and battery.

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