Riverside Homicide Defense Attorney

Diligent Defense for Murder & Manslaughter Charges

Being accused of homicide is overwhelming in ways that are hard to put into words. At The Law Offices of Jacqueline Goodman, we understand how frightening, confusing, and nerve-racking it can be to face a serious homicide charge. Whether you acted in self-defense or were involved in an accident that turned tragic, our homicide defense lawyer is dedicated to safeguarding your future by providing the robust defense you deserve.

When you partner with us, you can expect direct attorney involvement and hands-on representation backed by an unrivaled track record of results. Our goal is to vigorously defend your rights and reputation through fearless advocacy and empathetic guidance every step of the way. Our nationally acclaimed advocate is highly respected by local judges, peers, and prosecutors, making us uniquely positioned to protect your liberty. 

If you were arrested for homicide in Riverside, our defense lawyer can tirelessly protect your freedom. Contact us online to discuss your case. Se habla español.

What Is Homicide?

Homicide refers to the unlawful killing of another person and covers various criminal offenses, from vehicular manslaughter to first-degree murder. It includes both intentional acts (such as premeditated murder or killings committed with malice aforethought) and unintentional acts (such as deaths caused by criminal negligence, reckless driving, or DUI-related conduct).

Common Homicide Charges We Defend Against

Murder in the First Degree

First-degree murder is the most severe homicide charge. It applies when a killing is committed with malice aforethought, meaning the person acted with intent to kill or a conscious disregard for human life (Cal. Pen. Code (PC) § 189(a)).

The act must be willful, deliberate, and premeditated, or occur during the commission of certain serious felonies. A conviction is punishable by 25 years to life in prison, life without parole, or the death penalty in extreme cases. 

Murder in the Second Degree

Second-degree murder involves an unlawful killing with malice aforethought that does not meet the requirements for first-degree murder, such as an intentional but unplanned killing or a dangerous act showing a conscious disregard for human life (PC § 189(b)). Potential penalties include 15 years to life in prison. 

Voluntary Manslaughter

Voluntary manslaughter occurs when a person intentionally kills another in the heat of passion or under an unreasonable belief that self-defense is necessary. The act must be intentional and without malice “upon a sudden quarrel or heat of passion” (PC § 192(a)). This is a wobbler offense that can be charged as a felony or a misdemeanor. Penalties may include 3, 6, or 11 years in state prison. 

Involuntary Manslaughter

Involuntary manslaughter refers to an unintentional death caused by criminal negligence or the commission of an unlawful act that is not a felony (PC § 192(b)). This includes deaths resulting from careless or reckless behavior without malice that creates a substantial risk of harm. This wobbler offense carries up to four years in state prison. 

Vehicular Manslaughter

Vehicular manslaughter involves causing a death while driving in a negligent, careless, or unlawful way (PC § 192(c)). This offense can be charged as a misdemeanor (punishable by up to one year in jail) or a felony (punishable by 16 months to three years in state prison).

Gross Vehicular Manslaughter While Intoxicated

Gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated occurs when a driver under the influence of drugs or alcohol causes a death through extreme negligence or a wanton disregard for safety (PC § 191.5(a)). The act must violate a DUI statute and contribute to the death. This felony offense carries 4, 6, or 10 years in state prison and fines up to $10,000. 

Does California Have the Death Penalty? 

Although California law still authorizes the death penalty for certain first-degree murder cases, no executions have occurred since 2006. The state is currently under a governor-ordered moratorium, which means no executions are being carried out since Governor Newsom issued an executive order halting executions in 2019. 

We understand that facing a murder charge can be frightening, which is why we are committed to alleviating stress and confusion throughout the legal process. Our attorney has a deep understanding of these legal nuances to explain which penalties may apply to your case and explore every avenue to protect your freedom.

What Is California’s Felony-Murder Rule?

The felony-murder rule allows first-degree murder charges for deaths that occur during the commission or attempted commission of dangerous felonies, even if the defendant did not act with malice or intend to kill. 

In 2019, Senate Bill 1437 reformed this rule by narrowing liability to actual killers, meaning defendants can only be convicted if they were the actual killer, assisted in killing with intent, or were a “major participant” acting with reckless indifference to human life. 

We can review the facts of your case, explain how the felony-murder rule may apply to your situation, and advise you on the strongest path forward, whether that means negotiating a favorable plea deal, proceeding to trial, or advocating for a dismissal. 

Common Defenses Against Homicide Charges

Below are some common legal defenses against homicide charges:

• Self-defense. Your actions were necessary to protect yourself from imminent harm. 
• Mistaken identity. You were mistakenly identified as the perpetrator.
• Insanity. You were incapable of understanding your actions when the offense was committed.
• Accident or misadventure. The death was accidental or occurred without intent to kill. 
• Coercion or duress. You were forced to act under threat of immediate death or serious bodily injury.
• Constitutional violations. Law enforcement violated your constitutional rights, such as performing an unlawful search or seizure.
• Insufficient evidence. The prosecution lacks sufficient evidence to prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

When You Can’t Afford to Lose, Choose The Law Offices of Jacqueline Goodman

When you are facing a homicide charge, you need a lawyer who understands what is at stake. That’s where The Law Offices of Jacqueline Goodman steps in. Below are some advantages of working with our firm: 

Decades of Experience

We have decades of experience defending the accused against serious crimes. With thousands of cases handled, you can trust us to prioritize your best interests at each stage of the process. 

State Bar-Certified Criminal Law Specialist

Attorney Jacqueline Goodman is a state bar-certified criminal law specialist who has met rigorous standards for legal proficiency and favorable peer evaluations from judges and colleagues.

National Recognition

Our trial advocate has earned state and national honors for courtroom excellence and is a member of notable organizations like the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NACDL) and the National College of DUI Defense (NCDD). 

Community Leadership 

Our founding attorney is a member of the California Public Defenders Association (CPDA), the former president of the California Attorneys for Criminal Justice, and has a well-respected reputation among the legal community. 

Proven Results

We pride ourselves on our 90% success rate and strong track record of dismissals, reductions, and favorable verdicts in high-stakes criminal cases. 

Being accused of homicide can be terrifying and isolating. Don’t face this challenging time alone. Call (714) 266-3945 to schedule a free consultation.