Los Angeles Vehicular Manslaughter Lawyer
Being accused of vehicular manslaughter is one of the most serious and emotionally overwhelming situations a person can face. A single moment on the road can lead to devastating consequences, criminal charges, and life-altering penalties.
If you are under investigation or have been charged, experienced legal representation is critical from the very beginning.
What Is Vehicular Manslaughter Under California Law?
Vehicular manslaughter in California occurs when a person causes the death of another while operating a motor vehicle, without intent to kill, but through negligence or unlawful conduct.
Under California Penal Code §192(c), vehicular manslaughter may involve:
- Ordinary negligence
- Gross negligence
- Driving while committing a lawful act in an unlawful manner
- Driving while committing an unlawful act not amounting to a felony
The severity of the charge depends on the driver’s conduct, whether alcohol or drugs were involved, and whether gross negligence is alleged.
Vehicular Manslaughter Penalties (Criminal & Civil)
Criminal Penalties
Criminal consequences vary based on the level of negligence and circumstances of the case and may include:
Misdemeanor vehicular manslaughter
- Up to 1 year in county jail
- Fines up to $1,000
- Probation
- Driver’s license suspension
Felony vehicular manslaughter
- Up to 6 years in state prison (or more in aggravated cases)
- Substantial fines
- Formal probation or parole
- Permanent criminal record
Vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence or DUI
- Enhanced prison sentences
- Mandatory DUI programs
- Long-term or permanent license revocation
Civil Liability
In addition to criminal charges, defendants may face wrongful death lawsuits, which can result in compensation for funeral and burial expenses, loss of financial support, loss of companionship and emotional suffering, significant financial judgments
Defenses to Vehicular Manslaughter Charges
Every case is fact-specific, and strong defenses may be available depending on the evidence. Common defense strategies include:
- Lack of negligence or gross negligence
- Accident caused by road conditions, weather, or mechanical failure
- Actions of the deceased or third parties contributed to the incident
- Improper police investigation or reconstruction errors
- Violation of constitutional rights during arrest or questioning
- Insufficient evidence to prove causation
Our goal is to challenge every aspect of the prosecution’s case and protect your freedom, reputation, and future.
Why Choose Our Firm for Vehicular Manslaughter Lawyer?
Vehicular manslaughter cases require precision, experience, and aggressive advocacy. We provide:
- Extensive experience handling serious felony cases
- Strategic defense tailored to complex accident investigations
- Collaboration with accident reconstruction and forensic experts
- Clear communication and honest case assessments
- Relentless negotiation and courtroom representation
We understand that these cases involve not only legal risk but emotional trauma. Our approach is both strategic and compassionate.
Contact Our Vehicular Manslaughter Lawyer Today
Time is critical in vehicular manslaughter cases. Evidence must be preserved, witnesses interviewed, and mistakes avoided early on. Do not speak to law enforcement or insurance companies without legal counsel.
Contact our office today to schedule a confidential consultation and learn how we can protect your rights and guide you through the legal process.
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 Vehicular Manslaughter:
Is vehicular manslaughter always a felony in California?
No. Vehicular manslaughter can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony depending on negligence, circumstances, and whether drugs or alcohol were involved.
Can I go to prison even if the death was an accident?
Yes. Even accidental deaths can result in criminal charges if prosecutors believe negligence or unlawful conduct caused the fatality. However, strong defenses may apply.
Will I be sued even if I am not convicted?
Yes. Civil wrongful death claims are separate from criminal cases and can proceed regardless of the criminal outcome.
If you or a loved one is facing vehicular manslaughter charges, the decisions you make now matter. Contact California Criminal Defense Center today and take the first step toward protecting your future.