Bakersfield Manslaughter Lawyer
Facing Manslaughter Charges in Bakersfield, CA?
If you or a loved one is facing manslaughter charges in Bakersfield, CA, you need experienced legal representation from a law firm that understands the complexities of California’s criminal justice system. At Humphrey & Thompson, we provide strategic, aggressive, and compassionate legal defense to those accused of serious crimes, including manslaughter. A conviction can carry severe penalties and have lifelong consequences. Trust a seasoned Bakersfield manslaughter attorney to protect your rights and fight for your future.
Contact our Bakersfield manslaughter lawyers today for an initial consultation.
What is Manslaughter?
Manslaughter is a criminal offense that involves the unlawful killing of another person without the malice aforethought required for a murder charge. In California, manslaughter is classified into three main categories under Penal Code § 192:
Voluntary Manslaughter
This occurs when someone kills another person in the "heat of passion" or during a sudden quarrel. Although the act is intentional, it lacks the premeditation that characterizes murder. A common example might be a person who discovers a spouse in an affair and reacts violently in the moment.
Involuntary Manslaughter
This type involves unintentional killing resulting from recklessness or criminal negligence. It typically arises when a person engages in lawful behavior that is done in a dangerous or negligent way, leading to another person's death.
Vehicular Manslaughter
Vehicular manslaughter occurs when a person causes the death of another while operating a motor vehicle in a negligent or unlawful manner, often related to DUI offenses or reckless driving.
Penalties for Manslaughter in California
The consequences of a manslaughter conviction in California can be life-altering. Sentencing varies depending on the type of manslaughter:
Voluntary Manslaughter
- State Prison: 3, 6, or 11 years
- Fines: Up to $10,000
- Probation: May be available depending on circumstances
- Additional Penalties: Loss of gun rights, community service, counseling
Involuntary Manslaughter
- State Prison: 2, 3, or 4 years
- Fines: Up to $10,000
- Probation: May be granted in lieu of prison time
- Civil Liability: Potential for a wrongful death lawsuit
Vehicular Manslaughter
- Misdemeanor or Felony: Depends on the severity and circumstances
- Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in county jail
- Felony: Up to 10 years in state prison (especially if DUI is involved)
- License Suspension: Mandatory for certain convictions
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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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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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- Jenna B.
My husband hired Jared Thompson to defend him against bogus charges. Their price was affordable and well worth the work they put in. Even though the DA's office was not helpful and kept delaying the case over and over, Mr. Thompson and his team never gave up. It was finally dismissed and we couldn't be more happy with the outcome.
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- Joe S.
His experience and knowing what to do helped and he has wisdom in sharing and saying the right thing to calm you in whatever you are going through. At times I was talked to as if I knew the law but when questioned what he was talking about he would take the time to explain. He is a very busy man so it seemed like he was hurried but would come back to explain. Happy with the outcome and glad that we were able to find a great attorney.
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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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- 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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- Jason G.
Mr Humphrey and his staff we nothing short of amazing to me and my family.
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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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- Tina H.
My son was wrongfully accused and charged with assault. I hired Mr. Humphrey to represent him because I heard he was the best and as my son is 19 years old, I did not want this bogus charge going on his record. Mr. Humphrey did an excellent job of representing my son from day one. I am happy to say that the charges were dropped and the case was dismissed. I HIGHLY recommend Kyle J. Humphrey.
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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
Contact a Bakersfield Manslaughter Lawyer Today
Facing manslaughter charges can be terrifying and overwhelming. You don’t have to navigate this process alone. The experienced legal team at Humphrey & Thompson is ready to defend your freedom, your future, and your reputation. We provide honest advice, aggressive representation, and dedicated support every step of the way.
Get started today by filling out our online contact form.