Federal laws can be a challenge to navigate, because their penalties are stiff and they have the money, authority and strength of theUnited Statesgovernment behind them. Los Angelescriminal defense attorneys who represent those accused of Federal crimes know how hard it can be to defend people in these cases.
Federal laws can also be complicated, and only knowledgeable Los Angelescriminal defense attorneys can give proper guidance on such issues. InNew Mexico, authorities are planning on prosecuting a man on a rarely used "Federal Fetus Law." In essence, the law states that authorities can charge someone with killing a fetus while causing the death or injury of the mother.
The man in question pleaded not guilty to
killing a fetus and to first-degree murder and child abuse charges.
He is accused of beating to death his 29-year-old girlfriend, in September and killing the fetus she had said was his. Authorities say the victim's 9-year-old son witnessed the assault.
If convicted, the man faces life in prison.
While this law is being tested inNew Mexico, it was written in regard to a case that took place inCalifornia. The Unborn Victims of Violence Act stemmed from the abduction and murder of a pregnant woman, Laci Peterson, inCaliforniain 2003. The law makes it a crime to kill a fetus in utero at any stage of development while committing another federal crime; it does not require the perpetrator to know the woman was pregnant.
Los Angeles criminal defense attorneys who are experienced and knowledgeable can help anyone accused of a Federal crime.
