Charged with Watson Murder? Why You Need an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney
In California, prosecutors can file second-degree murder charges against drivers involved in fatal crashes — even if they never meant to hurt anyone. This type of case, known as a Watson murder, is based on the 1981 California Supreme Court decision in People v. Watson.
Since that case, prosecutors have used the Watson rule to pursue murder charges in a wide range of situations — from DUI fatalities to street racing deaths — often seeking a 15-years-to-life sentence.
Our experienced criminal defense attorneys at Wallin & Klarich can guide you through the legal process. Call Wallin & Klarich today toll-free at (877) 466-5245 for your free consultation with one of our defense attorneys near you.
What Is a Watson Murder?
In People v. Watson, the defendant drove drunk, ran red lights, and caused a crash that killed two people. The court found that even though he didn’t intend to kill, he acted with “implied malice” — a conscious disregard for human life.
Courts look for several factors to determine implied malice, including:
- A high blood alcohol level
- A pre-drinking intent to drive
- Knowledge of the dangers of drunk driving
- Extremely reckless driving behavior
Today, prosecutors use these factors to justify murder charges in serious driving cases — sometimes even when no alcohol or drugs are involved.
The Pierce Case: Expanding the Watson Rule
In a recent case, People v. Ronald Pierce, Jr. (2025), the California Court of Appeal upheld a second-degree murder conviction for a man who was street racing at 129 mph on a city street while intoxicated with a .24% BAC.
Pierce argued that dash cam footage showed he was in control of his vehicle and that another driver clipped him, causing the crash. The court rejected his appeal, finding that his driving was extremely dangerous and that the jury’s findings were supported by the evidence.
The court also ruled that even though Pierce had no prior DUIs or alcohol education classes, prosecutors did not need to prove that he had personal experience with DUI risks. The court reaffirmed that any combination of reckless behavior, intoxication, or conscious choices can support a Watson murder conviction.
What This Means for You
The Pierce decision makes it clear that California prosecutors have wide authority to bring murder charges in fatal driving cases — whether the incident involves drunk driving, street racing, or extreme speeding.
If you are facing a Watson murder charge, you could be looking at life in prison. These cases are complex, emotional, and heavily prosecuted. That’s why it’s critical to have an attorney who understands how to challenge the prosecution’s claims of implied malice.
How an Experienced Wallin & Klarich Attorney Can Help
At Wallin & Klarich, our team of criminal defense attorneys has spent more than 40 years defending clients accused of DUI murder, vehicular manslaughter, and reckless driving fatalities.
We understand how prosecutors build these cases — and we know how to fight back. Our experienced lawyers can:
- Challenge the evidence of intoxication or reckless conduct
- Expose weaknesses in the prosecution’s theory of implied malice
- Negotiate reduced charges or seek alternative sentencing
- Fight for your freedom at trial
When your future is on the line, you need a legal team that knows what it takes to win.
Call Wallin & Klarich Today
If you or someone you love has been charged with Watson murder, DUI causing death, or a fatal street racing offense, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side right now. These cases can carry a 15-years-to-life sentence, and prosecutors aggressively pursue convictions. At Wallin & Klarich, our skilled attorneys have been defending clients facing serious driving-related homicide charges for over 40 years. We know how to navigate the courts, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and fight to protect your freedom and your future.
At Wallin & Klarich, we have offices all over Southern California: Irvine, Pasadena, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, Torrance, Victorville, and Anaheim. Additionally, our law firm can handle many types of cases statewide.
Discover how our team can assist you. Contact us today, toll-free at (877) 466-5245 for a free consultation with a skilled defense attorney near you.
