Bakersfield Homicide Defense Attorney
When you or a loved one is facing a homicide charge in Bakersfield, the stakes could not be higher. California aggressively prosecutes all forms of homicide, and a conviction can result in decades—or even life—in prison. At Humphrey & Thompson, our mission is to protect your rights, challenge the prosecution’s case, and build the strongest defense possible under the law. With experience in serious felony litigation, our team understands what it takes to fight for your freedom and future.
Contact us today for a confidential consultation and immediate representation.
What Is Homicide?
“Homicide” is a broad legal term that refers to the unlawful killing of another human being. Not all homicides are treated the same under California law. Some are considered murder, which involves intent or malice, while others fall under manslaughter, which typically involves a lack of premeditation or the presence of mitigating factors.
Prosecutors will examine the circumstances leading to the death, the accused’s state of mind, and any surrounding evidence to determine the appropriate charge. No matter which category a case falls under, any homicide charge is serious and demands immediate representation from an experienced Bakersfield homicide defense attorney.
Common Forms of Homicide
First-Degree Murder
First-degree murder generally involves:
- Premeditation or planning
- Killing with intent
- Killings committed during certain felonies (“felony murder rule”)
- This is the most severe non-capital homicide charge.
Second-Degree Murder
Second-degree murder usually involves:
- Intent to kill without premeditation
- Acting with “malice aforethought”
- Extremely reckless conduct showing disregard for human life
This charge applies when the killing was intentional but not planned in advance.
Felony Murder
Under California’s felony murder rules, a person may be charged if a death occurs during the commission of certain dangerous felonies, such as:
Even if the accused did not directly cause the death, involvement in the underlying felony can lead to murder charges.
Voluntary Manslaughter
This charge applies when someone kills another person:
- In the heat of passion
- During a sudden quarrel
- Under circumstances that reduce moral blame
- Unlike murder, voluntary manslaughter involves no malice.
Involuntary Manslaughter
Involuntary manslaughter applies when the killing was unintentional and typically results from:
- Criminal negligence
- Reckless behavior
- Unlawful acts not amounting to felonies
This is still a felony with severe consequences.
Vehicular Manslaughter
Vehicular manslaughter involves the unlawful killing of another person while driving, often associated with:
- Distracted driving
- DUI
- Reckless driving practices
California treats DUI-related deaths particularly harshly.
Penalties for Homicide Charges in California
Homicide penalties in California can vary drastically depending on the charge, the defendant’s criminal history, and the circumstances of the alleged offense. Some potential consequences include:
First-Degree Murder
25 years to life in prison
Life without the possibility of parole (LWOP)
Additional penalties for special circumstances
Second-Degree Murder
15 years to life in prison
Enhancements for firearm use, gang involvement, or prior offenses
Voluntary Manslaughter
Up to 11 years in state prison
Possible sentence enhancements
Involuntary Manslaughter
Up to 4 years in prison
Fines and probation in some cases
Vehicular Manslaughter
Penalties range widely depending on:
- Whether alcohol was involved
- Level of negligence
- Prior DUI convictions
- DUI-related homicide charges can result in lengthy state prison terms.
Collateral Consequences
Beyond prison time, a homicide conviction can result in:
- Loss of employment
- Loss of civil rights
- Immigration consequences for non-citizens
- Lifetime criminal record
Because the consequences are severe and often irreversible, it is critical to seek representation immediately.
Contact a Bakersfield Homicide Defense Lawyer Today
If you or someone you love has been charged with homicide in Bakersfield, do not wait to get help. The sooner you involve a skilled criminal defense attorney, the more options you have to fight the charges.
Call Humphrey & Thompson at today for direct help from a homicide attorney in Bakersfield.
Homicide FAQs
What should I do if I am under investigation for homicide?
Remain silent and immediately contact a Bakersfield homicide defense lawyer. Anything you say can be used against you, even if you believe you are innocent.
Can I be charged with murder even if I didn’t intend to kill anyone?
Yes. Under California’s felony murder rule or if your actions showed extreme recklessness, prosecutors may pursue murder charges without proving intent.
Is self-defense a valid argument in homicide cases?
Absolutely. If someone reasonably believed they were in imminent danger of death or great bodily harm, deadly force may be legally justified.
Do all homicide convictions result in life in prison?
Not always. Penalties depend on the charge, circumstances, enhancements, and defense strategy. Many defendants avoid life sentences through strong legal representation.
Should I talk to police if they say cooperating will “help my case”?
No. Police may encourage you to speak, but doing so can harm your defense. Consult an attorney before answering any questions.
criminal law specialists
Recognized by The State of California As Board Certified Criminal Defense Experts
At Humphrey & Thompson, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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- Rena B.
IF you are caught in a bad situation in life and are looking for a Lawyer and investigator to fight, do their job well in fighting to prove your innocence in your case, you need Kyle and Victor on your side!!!
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Needed a lawyer for our juvenile son for a felony assault case. Public defender was not very helpful and told us that at best our son would be on a very intensive probation for years if not sentenced to a camp. Rob Singh took our case and basically got everything resolved outside of court with the prosecutor within 2 weeks. Alleviated a lot of stress and anxiety by getting our son on a very minimal probation for 6 months and then records completely sealed. Highly recommended and would definitely hire this firm again.- Erik S.
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- Aracele S.
I’d like to express my sincere gratitude to Kyle Humphrey at Humphrey & Thompson for his help with an unexpected case. He was highly thorough and made sure I understood every part of the process, which was especially important as this was my first and only legal matter. Many thanks to you and your team!
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- Cesar M.
They were very straightforward about the possible outcomes and always seemed to be one step ahead in planning our defense strategy. The paralegal staff was also courteous and prompt in their responses, which made the whole stressful process much more bearable. I am profoundly grateful for their services. the Martinez Lugo family we loved them we really recommended thanks so much :)
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- KC A.
I had an amazing experience with Kyle! He is a straight shooter and that was crucial for me to hear. I was able to keep all my rights, get my case dismissed and that was huge for me! Kyle was able to take a bad situation for our family and deliver results that allowed us to move forward and grow. I highly recommend Kyle and his team!
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- Aimee G.
The process was easy and they made it so that I didn't have to appear in court. I highly recommended them!
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- Rob B.
He was straight forward, informative, and very easy to work with from inception to completion. I strongly suggest reaching out to Mr Thompson should you need the services offered by his office!
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- Randy K.
Due to the distance away from the Bakersfield area I was able to deal with the firm by phone and email. Phone service was very timely and they made me feel comfortable. If needed, I would use their services again and recommend this law office.
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Charges Reduced/Dismissed
Misdemeanor Sex Crime with Mandatory Sex Registration
Settled for no registration and time served after 5 days of trial ending in a mistrial. -
Charges Reduced/Dismissed
Felony Sex Crime
Client was charged with a felony sex crime . His charges were reduced to a misdeanor. He received no sex offender registration and community service instead of jail. -
Case Dismissal
Sexual Abuse
Allegation of Continuous Sexual Abuse Dismissed Before Trial. -
Case Dismissal
Felony Sex Case
Felony Sex Case based on Undercover Decoy Sting Dismissed Entirely. -
Case Dismissal
Rape
Rape Case Dismissed Based on Defense Investigation and Medical Evaluation Before Trial. -
Case Dismissal
Sexual Battery
Local business owner charged with sexual battery, dismissed. -
Jury Trial Acquittals
Molestation and Sexual Abuse of Minors
Mr. Thompson Secures Complete Dismissal of all Charges at Jury Trial for Accusations of Molestation and Sexual Abuse of Minors
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Avoid Sex Offender Registration
Sex Offense
Juvenile Client Has Felony Sex Offense Case Dismissed and Is Not Required to Register
How Humphrey & Thompson Defends Homicide Charges
Every homicide case is unique, and the right defense strategy depends on the specific facts. Our team carefully analyzes evidence, interviews witnesses, and explores all avenues to challenge the prosecution’s claims.
Common defense strategies include:
- Self-defense or defense of others
- Lack of intent or premeditation
- Accidental death
- Insufficient evidence
- Mistaken identity
- Violation of constitutional rights
- Police misconduct or investigative errors
- False accusations
Our role is to ensure your story is heard, your rights are protected, and your defense is aggressively pursued at every stage of the legal process.
