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Possible Punishments for Homicide in California

When one person kills another, it is considered a homicide. While there are varying degrees of homicide in our state (more on this later), each is treated very seriously under California law.

The punishments for California homicide charges can be severe, so it is important to have an experienced Ventura criminal defense attorney on your side. An attorney fighting for your legal rights may be able to earn you a reduced sentence, or best of all, an acquittal.

It is important to understand the different types of homicide in California. First, there are two types of murder. First-degree murder, which necessitates forethought and planning, is the most serious. Second degree, which is an intentional but not pre-meditated killing, is treated only slightly less severely.

There are also three types of manslaughter: voluntary manslaughter, involuntary manslaughter, and vehicular manslaughter. Voluntary manslaughter is treated as the most severe type, while involuntary and vehicular manslaughter are slightly less serious.

The punishment for first-degree murder is usually a prison term of 25 years to life. If certain circumstances are present, such as racial motivation or explosives, the death penalty can come into play. Second-degree murder usually carries with it a prison term of 15 years to life.

Voluntary manslaughter is usually punished with a prison term of 3 to 11 years. Involuntary manslaughter is usually punished with a prison term of 2 to 4 years. Vehicular manslaughter varies the most in its punishment degrees, as it can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony.

If you are facing California homicide charges, no matter the degree, you need to take immediate action to protect against the maximum penalty. Even if this may only be a few years in prison, this is far too large a disruption to your life, your career, and your family.

It is highly advised that you first contact a Ventura criminal defense attorney before proceeding with anything else. Mean-spirited prosecutors may be out to get you to say or do something extremely damaging, and having an experienced defense lawyer on your side can protect you.

At Bamieh & Erickson, our Ventura criminal defense attorneys hold solemnly to the principle that all people are innocent until proven guilty. Call us today in Ventura or Santa Barbara counties at (805) 643-5555 for representation that values you for who you truly are.

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