Involuntary manslaughter is addressed in California Penal Code Section 192(b). It generally happens when someone unintentionally causes the death of another person. This means the person did not deliberately intend to kill, nor did they act in a way that completely disregarded human life.
If you're accused of involuntary manslaughter, reach out to a criminal defense lawyer at Cron, Israels & Stark without delay. Prompt action by our firm can significantly influence the outcome of your case.
There are multiple legal defenses against involuntary manslaughter charges, depending on your case details.
You might be charged with involuntary manslaughter if you unintentionally cause someone's death while committing a non-inherently dangerous felony, or if you perform a lawful act that could result in death without exercising proper caution.
It's crucial to note the distinction here: Under California Penal Code Section 192(b), involuntary manslaughter does not require "intent" to kill.
This is significantly different from murder charges under California Penal Code Section 187, which insist on "malice aforethought." Furthermore, California's involuntary manslaughter laws exclude conduct involving vehicles, which are addressed separately under vehicular manslaughter statutes.
What are Some Examples?
A typical case of involuntary manslaughter charges involves domestic violence-related incidents. For example, during a heated argument, a wife, in self-defense, retrieves her gun and points it at her threatening husband. In a struggle over the weapon, it accidentally discharges, leading to his death.
A more prominent example is the death of Michael Jackson, where his doctor faced involuntary manslaughter charges. Dr. Conrad Murray's case centered on his excessive prescribing of sedatives, with Los Angeles County prosecutors needing only to show that he acted recklessly or carelessly, not that he intended to cause harm.
He was convicted of involuntary manslaughter for prescribing Michael Jackson a surgical anesthetic that ultimately caused his death. He received a four-year prison sentence.
What Does PC 192(b) Say?
Under California Penal Code Section 192(b), involuntary manslaughter is legally defined as follows: "(b) Involuntary - in the commission of an unlawful act, not amounting to a felony; or in the commission of a lawful act which might produce death, in an unlawful manner, or without due caution and circumspection."
It is important to note that this subdivision of manslaughter laws in California does not cover acts committed while driving a vehicle.
According to PC 192(b), the legal definition involves specific "elements of the crime" that the prosecutor must prove to secure a conviction. These elements include:
- You engaged in an action that posed a significant risk of severe injury or death; or
- You performed the act due to criminal negligence; and
- Your actions resulted in another person's death.
In California, involuntary manslaughter is classified as a felony, with penalties such as 2, 3, or 4 years in state prison, fines up to $10,000, and potential 'strike' enhancements under California's 'Three Strikes Law.'
What is Criminal Negligence?
An "act" does not necessarily mean a crime; it merely means the act was performed unlawfully. In involuntary manslaughter cases, the prosecutor is required to demonstrate that you acted with "criminal negligence."
What does this imply? Criminal negligence involves more than just carelessness or errors. It refers to acting recklessly in a way that significantly risks death or serious injury, and any reasonable person would recognize that these actions could cause such harm.
Your actions that "caused" someone's death mean the death was a direct or likely result of your act, which would not have occurred without your action.
What Are the Related Crimes?
Under California law, several criminal offenses are related to involuntary manslaughter, including:
- Penal Code Section 192(a) - Voluntary Manslaughter
- Penal Code Section 192(c) - Vehicular Manslaughter
- Penal Code Section 191.5 - Vehicular Manslaughter While Intoxicated
- Penal Code Section 187 - Murder
What Are the Legal Defenses?
Our California criminal defense lawyers employ a range of legal strategies to defend you against involuntary manslaughter charges. We recognize that each case involves unique facts and circumstances.
When someone is killed, authorities and prosecutors are usually quick to get involved and often jump to conclusions to secure a conviction. Our defense attorneys will carefully examine the details of your case and may employ multiple legal defenses, including:
- Accident: Most involuntary manslaughter cases involve accidents where the defendant did not intend to kill. Our lawyers can argue that it was a true accident, showing that your actions were lawful, lacked criminal intent, and involved lawful conduct at the time of the incident.
- Self Defense: Our criminal attorneys may prove you acted in self-defense if your life or another's was threatened by imminent danger of death or serious injury. Under California law, reasonable force is permitted if you believe it was necessary and not excessive. This defense relies on the court's judgment that the killing was justified under these circumstances.
- False Accusation: Sometimes, our attorneys can provide evidence showing you were falsely accused of involuntary manslaughter. This might happen if someone tries to deny or downplay their role in the victim's death. Additionally, a false allegation can occur if someone is seeking revenge against you.
In some cases, we might be able to demonstrate that your criminally negligent act was not the direct cause of the victim's death.
If you face a criminal investigation or charges for involuntary manslaughter, contact a knowledgeable defense attorney at Cron, Israels & Stark promptly. Early legal intervention can be crucial to your case's success and your peace of mind.
Our law firm will perform an independent investigation, interview witnesses, and carefully review evidence to develop an effective defense. Early engagement with our team is crucial because prompt legal assistance can influence the case's outcome, including potential reductions or dismissals.
Related Content:
