[45Auto]

Let's say someone with a legal CCW (not likely in CA, but let's pretend) ran 50 yards to the aid of that lawyer and then put the attacker down. How much trouble would he be in?

That is a good question. California law allows a third party to use deadly force to intervene in such a case as this; if the good Samaritan fired only once to stop the attacker, he would probably not be charged. If he hit the aattacker with more than one bullet, then he could be charged, but maybe not. That's why I like the .45 Auto; one round at close range in the right place will usually suffice.

[AngryJawa]

After seeing the video of this nutjob, I'm really considering an upgrade from 9mm.