Los Angeles Voluntary Manslaughter Defense
Southern California Violent Crimes Defense Firm
Manslaughter is the crime of killing another human being without premeditation or planning. It is different from murder because murder includes premeditation (commonly referred to as “malice aforethought”) on the part of the accused.
Manslaughter is classified as voluntary when an intentional killing takes place when there was no previous intent to kill. In other words, it takes place in the “ heat of passion” or was reasonably provoked. Reasonable provocation is described as an act that would cause a normal person to lose self control, mental awareness and to act on impulse in the heat of the moment, without thinking first. “Heat of passion” may be provoked by any of the following:
Another form of voluntary manslaughter is a homicide that results during the commission of a felony, such as a robbery, rape or burglary. In California, voluntary manslaughter is a felony offense and can carry a severe prison sentence. With the proper defense, a sentence can be drastically reduced and in some cases charges may be dropped altogether.
Manslaughter in California
If you have been accused of manslaughter in Los Angeles, you must act fast to contact an attorney who understands your case and can act swiftly to get you the best possible outcome. At the Law Offices of Barry Bernstein, we have the experience necessary to help obtain a favorable result for your specific case. A Major Felony Trial Specialist, criminal defense lawyer Barry Bernstein has over 40 years of legal experience and will fight to protect your rights.
Los Angeles attorney Barry O. Bernstein is ready to help you with your voluntary manslaughter charge, helping to reduce your sentence or get your charges dropped altogether.
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