Los Angeles Manslaughter Defense Lawyer
Facing a manslaughter charge is an overwhelming experience. Unlike murder, manslaughter suggests there was no prior intent to kill, but the legal consequences remain severe, often involving years in prison and a permanent criminal record.
Here is a comprehensive breakdown of the charges, defenses, and how California Criminal Defense Center can protect your rights
Understanding the Three Types of Manslaughter
Manslaughter is generally divided into three categories based on the circumstances of the event and the “state of mind” of the accused.
Voluntary Manslaughter
Often referred to as a “heat of passion” crime. This occurs when a person is strongly provoked and kills in the heat of the moment, without prior planning. The provocation must be something that would cause a reasonable person to lose emotional control.
Involuntary Manslaughter
This involves an unintentional killing resulting from criminal negligence or recklessness. It often occurs during the commission of a low-level misdemeanor or a lawful act performed without due caution (e.g., a workplace accident caused by gross safety violations).
Vehicular Manslaughter
Specifically involves the death of another person while operating a motor vehicle. This is usually charged when a driver is:
- Driving under the influence (DUI).
- Committing a traffic violation (like speeding or illegal texting).
- Engaging in “gross negligence” behind the wheel.
Manslaughter Penalties under California Law:
The penalties for manslaughter vary by state and the specific details of the case, but generally follow these guidelines:
Charge Type | Potential Prison Sentence | Other Consequences |
Voluntary | 3 to 11 years | High fines, “Strike” on record, loss of firearm rights. |
Involuntary | 2 to 4 years | Probation, heavy fines, community service. |
Vehicular | 1 to 10 years | Permanent license revocation, restitution to victims. |
The Defenses we use for manslaughter charge:
A skilled defense attorney will examine the evidence to build a strategy aimed at reducing or dismissing the charges. Common defenses include:
Self-Defense/Defense of Others:
Arguing that the use of force was necessary to prevent imminent death or great bodily harm.
Accidental Killing:
Demonstrating that you were acting lawfully and had no criminal intent or “gross negligence.”
Insufficient Evidence:
Challenging the prosecution’s ability to prove that your specific actions caused the death.
Constitutional Violations:
If evidence was gathered through illegal searches or if your Miranda rights were violated, we can move to have that evidence suppressed.
Why Choose California Criminal Defense Center:
When your freedom is on the line, experience is the only thing that matters.
Decades of Experience: We have handled hundreds of homicide and manslaughter cases.
Expert Resources: We work with private investigators and forensic experts to uncover the truth.
Aggressive Advocacy: We don’t just “settle.” We prepare every case as if it is going to trial to ensure we have the strongest leverage possible.
Compassionate Support: We know this is the hardest time of your life. We provide clear, honest communication at every step.
Contact Our Manslaughter Defense Attorney Today:
Don’t wait until it’s too late. The early stages of an investigation are critical for preserving evidence and protecting your rights.
Call us today for a confidential, no-obligation consultation.
Available 24/7 for Emergency Consultations.
Work with expert lawyers
Unlike many law offices that assign client cases to young associates, attorney Ardalon Fakhimi will personally handle all significant aspects of your Underage DUI case from start to finish, including all settlement discussions, negotiations, and the trial. He will personally answer all of your questions and navigate you through every stage of your case. We never use inexperienced associates who are just learning the practice of DUI law and criminal law. Similarly, we are NOT a high volume law office. Rather, we emphasize a very personalized attorney-client relationship where our clients are in continuous contact with their DUI and criminal lawyer; not their lawyer’s assistant. Finally, we are a detail-oriented law office that meticulously strategizes every case. That means no stone remains unturned during the course of our representation and through the final disposition of your case.
We serve clients from Sherman Oaks, Van Nuys, Torrance, for Domestic Violence, Petty Thefts, DUI Under-21 Cases.
What Our Clients Say
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
here is some questions about Manslaughter:
Is manslaughter a felony?
Yes. In almost all jurisdictions, all forms of manslaughter are classified as felonies.
Can a manslaughter charge be reduced to a lesser crime?
Often, yes. Depending on the evidence, we can negotiate to have manslaughter reduced to “negligent homicide” or even “involuntary reckless endangerment,” which carries significantly less prison time.
What is the difference between murder and manslaughter?
The primary difference is malice aforethought (intent). Murder requires the intent to kill or a “depraved indifference” to life, while manslaughter involves less culpability or extreme provocation.
Should I talk to the police if I’m innocent?
No. Anything you say can be used against you. Always wait until your attorney is present before making any statements to law enforcement.