Practice Areas

• Homicide
• Violent Crime/Felony
• White Collar Crime
• Juvenile Defense/Youthful Defenders
• Misdemeanor Offense

Blog

News

Library

Different Types of Homicide in California

A homicide is defined as any instance in which one human being kills another. The most publicized homicides are the murder cases you see featured on the news, but there are many different types of homicide under California law.

The first type of homicide is murder, of which there are two degrees. First-degree murder, committed with forethought and planning, carries a sentence of twenty-five years to life. Stiffer penalties apply if the perpetrator used a firearm in the commission of the crime. In special circumstances, such as when race is involved or a bomb is used, the death penalty can be invoked.

Second degree murder, an intentional but non-premeditated murder, carries a prison term of fifteen years to life. If an on-duty peace officer is the victim, or if the perpetrator committed a prior murder, the crime carries a sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole.

Another kind of California homicide is manslaughter. Reserved for killings that are unintentional-thus without malice or forethought-manslaughter carries lighter punishments. Manslaughter, like murder, also has different degrees.

Voluntary manslaughter, a result of reasonable provocation or unreasonable attempt at self-defense, carries a term of three to eleven years in prison. Involuntary manslaughter, an unintentional killing resulting from gross negligence, carries a prison term of two to four years. Finally, vehicular manslaughter, a death that occurs as the result of an illegal act while driving, can be prosecuted as a misdemeanor or a felony, and punishment varies accordingly.

The different types of California homicide vary in severity and punishment, from the two degrees of murder to the three types of manslaughter. But all involve the taking of human lives, and thus should be treated very seriously.

As Ventura criminal defense lawyers, we have experience with each of these types of homicide. If you or a loved one are being charged with homicide, it is important that you contact an attorney.

An experienced Ventura criminal defense lawyer can help minimize your criminal exposure, eliminate or reduce the charges against you, fight on your behalf for a fair and short sentence, and advise you on clearing your criminal record. Call us today at 805-585-3638.

Free Consultation