Manslaughter Defense in CaliforniaCalifornia Penal Code § 192
Free Consultation.What Is Manslaughter Under California Law?
Manslaughter under California Penal Code § 192 is the unlawful killing of another human being without malice aforethought. Unlike murder, manslaughter does not require premeditation, but it remains a serious felony. California recognizes three types: voluntary, involuntary, and vehicular manslaughter.
Voluntary Manslaughter — PC 192(a)
Voluntary manslaughter occurs when a person intentionally kills in the heat of passion following sudden provocation, without sufficient time to cool down. It is punishable by 3, 6, or 11 years in state prison and counts as a strike under California's Three Strikes Law.
Involuntary Manslaughter — PC 192(b)
Involuntary manslaughter involves an unintentional killing resulting from a lawful act performed without due caution, or an unlawful act not amounting to a felony. Punishable by 2, 3, or 4 years in state prison.
Defenses to Manslaughter Charges
Effective defenses include self-defense or defense of others, accident rather than criminal negligence, challenging the cause of death through independent forensic experts, and disputing the prosecution's characterization of the defendant's mental state. Skilled advocacy can often result in a reduction from murder to manslaughter, or from manslaughter to a lesser charge.
Contact Virtuoso Law — Available 24/7
Manslaughter charges require immediate, aggressive legal representation. Call Virtuoso Criminal and DUI Lawyers at (833) 666-5245 for a free consultation. We serve clients throughout the Bay Area and Central Valley.