District Of Columbia § 22-2104 - Penalty for murder in first and second degrees.
Full text of District Of Columbia D.C. Code § 22-2104 — Penalty for murder in first and second degrees., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 22-2104. Penalty for murder in first and second degrees.
22-2104The punishment for murder in the first degree shall be not less than 30 years nor more than life imprisonment without release, except that the court may impose a prison sentence in excess of 60 years only in accordance with or . The prosecution shall notify the defendant in writing at least 30 days prior to trial that it intends to seek a sentence of life imprisonment without release as provided in ; provided that, no person who was less than 18 years of age at the time the murder was committed shall be sentenced to life imprisonment without release.
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a person convicted of murder in the first degree shall not be released from prison prior to the expiration of 30 years from the date of the commencement of the sentence.
Whoever is guilty of murder in the second degree shall be sentenced to a period of incarceration of not more than life, except that the court may impose a prison sentence in excess of 40 years only in accordance with .
For purposes of imprisonment following revocation of release authorized by , murder in the first degree and murder in the second degree are Class A felonies.
In addition to any other penalty provided under this section, a person may be fined an amount not more than the amount set forth in .
Annotations
Source: official District Of Columbia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About District Of Columbia § 22-2104
What does D.C. Code § 22-2104 cover?
Section 22-2104 ("Penalty for murder in first and second degrees.") is part of the D.C. Code, the codified statutory law of District Of Columbia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite District Of Columbia § 22-2104?
A common citation format is "D.C. Code § 22-2104" (District Of Columbia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of District Of Columbia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the District Of Columbia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed District Of Columbia attorney.
How does District Of Columbia § 22-2104 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in District Of Columbia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in District Of Columbia.