Manslaughter Attorney in Ridgecrest
California Criminal Defense for Voluntary, Involuntary, and Vehicular Manslaughter Charges
A manslaughter charge carries the potential for years in state prison, a permanent felony record, and in some cases a strike under California’s Three Strikes Law. The decisions made in the earliest days of your case shape everything that follows. Our boutique criminal defense firm serves individuals accused throughout Kern County, including those facing charges that will be heard at the Kern County Superior Court’s Ridgecrest location.
When you work with us, you work directly with Mr. Humphrey and Mr. Thompson. With decades of combined criminal defense experience and a record of success in both state and federal courts, they bring aggressive, informed advocacy grounded in deep knowledge of California criminal law. You won’t be handed off to junior staff or lost in a large-firm caseload.
If you’re looking for a manslaughter lawyer in Ridgecrest, contact us now at (661) 760-7678. We respond promptly and can start reviewing your case.
Why Kern County Defendants Choose Humphrey & Thompson
The State Bar of California has board-certified our attorneys in criminal law, a distinction that reflects depth of knowledge and a commitment to standards that go well beyond what’s required to practice. Across decades of work, we’ve handled more than 5,000 criminal cases, including jury trials in Kern County state and federal courts.
Our representation doesn’t stop at a negotiated plea. We handle every phase of a manslaughter case: analyzing the charges, investigating the evidence, challenging the prosecution’s theory, negotiating with prosecutors, and standing beside our clients at trial when that’s what it takes to pursue the right result.
California’s Three Manslaughter Charges
California Penal Code 192 defines manslaughter as the unlawful killing of a human being without malice aforethought, meaning without the premeditation or intent required to prove murder. What separates the three distinct charges from one another is how the killing occurred and what mental state or conduct the prosecution must prove.
Voluntary Manslaughter
Voluntary manslaughter is charged when a killing occurs upon a sudden quarrel or in the heat of passion. The law recognizes that extreme provocation can overcome reason, and that a killing under those circumstances, while unlawful, differs meaningfully from deliberate murder. A conviction carries 3, 6, or 11 years in state prison under Penal Code 193. Critically, voluntary manslaughter counts as a strike under California’s Three Strikes Law, making a prior felony record a significant factor in how the charge is handled.
Involuntary Manslaughter
Involuntary manslaughter applies when a death results from an unlawful act that isn’t a felony, or from a lawful act performed without due caution or in an unlawful manner. Criminal negligence, not intent, is the core element the prosecution must establish. A conviction carries 2, 3, or 4 years in state prison. Unlike voluntary manslaughter, an involuntary manslaughter conviction typically doesn’t count as a strike unless the conduct involved personal infliction of great bodily injury or use of a weapon.
Vehicular Manslaughter
Vehicular manslaughter, governed by Penal Code 191.5 when intoxication is involved, covers deaths caused while operating a vehicle. The severity of the charge depends on whether the driver acted with ordinary negligence or gross negligence, which is a conscious disregard for the safety of others. Penalties range from up to one year in county jail for a misdemeanor to 2, 4, or 6 years in state prison when gross negligence supports a felony charge.
criminal law specialists
Recognized by The State of California As Board Certified Criminal Defense Experts
Personal Attention Throughout Your Case
A serious criminal charge is not the time to wonder whether your attorney knows where your case stands. We make every client a priority. Reach out anytime, and you can expect a response, often by the next business day or sooner, along with clear updates as your case progresses. Our clients don’t get form letters, and they don’t get silence.
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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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- Felicia E.
He values his clients and understands their individual needs. He will work hard to guarantee that justice is served for everyone involved. He is honest and supportive throughout the entire process. We will never forget what Kyle has done for us.
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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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- Saijel P.
Kyle and his team are absolutely amazing! With my whole case they kept it completely stress free. Kyle will explain everything in a way you could actually understand. I highly recommend him. He's honest, fair and compassionate and fantastic to work with.
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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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- 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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- Former Client
Jared and his staff, not exaggerating were on top of it all. If I called to talk to the girls in the front they handled everything right away, Jared reputation for being THE BEST matched him perfect. We had issues with the anger management classes and the staff really cared and helped us. Jared helped my son who was facing some serious charges but he genuinely cared about the whole truth and we got blessed tremendously! we are forever grateful and truly couldnt have imagined the outcome had we NOT hired him! Loved them thank you so much sincerely!
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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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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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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. -
Avoid Sex Offender Registration
Sex Offense
Juvenile Client Has Felony Sex Offense Case Dismissed and Is Not Required to Register
Serving Manslaughter Defendants Throughout Ridgecrest and Kern County
Humphrey & Thompson represent individuals accused of manslaughter and other violent crimes throughout Kern County, including those facing charges in Ridgecrest. Our practice is built around direct attorney access and case-specific strategy, not volume-based processing.
From the moment charges are filed, time matters. Evidence must be preserved, witnesses contacted, and the prosecution’s theory challenged before it hardens. If you or someone you care about is facing a manslaughter charge in Ridgecrest or anywhere in Kern County, don’t wait.
Contact Humphrey & Thompson now at (661) 760-7678 to speak with our manslaughter attorney in Ridgecrest about your case.
