San Bernardino Homicide Defense Attorney

Aggressively Defending Against Murder & Manslaughter Charges

For individuals facing homicide charges, the stakes are extremely high. Every decision you make can have life-altering impacts on your future, making it absolutely critical to secure a robust defense. At The Law Offices of Jacqueline Goodman, we understand that bad things happen to good people. Since 2008, our homicide defense lawyer has provided diligent representation to individuals facing a wide range of homicide charges. 

When you partner with our firm, you can expect fearless advocacy and empathetic guidance every step of the way. Our goal is to protect your future by delivering the tenacious defense you deserve. Our founding attorney is a state bar-certified criminal law specialist who is highly respected by local judges, prosecutors, and peers, making us well-equipped to defend your rights and reputation.   

If you were charged with homicide in San Bernardino, we can fight to restore your freedom. Call (714) 266-3945 to schedule a free consultation. Se habla español.

What Constitutes Homicide?

Homicide refers to the unlawful killing of another person. The act may be committed intentionally or through criminal negligence. DUI-related fatalities are also considered forms of homicide under state law. No matter the charge you’re facing, we can analyze the evidence against you and work tirelessly to build a strong defense. 

Common Homicide Charges We Defend Against

First-Degree Murder

First-degree murder occurs when a person unlawfully kills another with willful, deliberate, and premeditated intent or during certain serious felonies, such as robbery or certain sex crimes (PC § 187 and § 189). This felony carries 25 years to life in state prison, life without parole, or the death penalty in rare cases.

Second-Degree Murder

Second-degree murder involves an unlawful killing with malice aforethought that does not meet the requirements for first-degree murder. It can include intentional killings that were not premeditated or those resulting from a dangerous act showing a disregard for human life. This is a felony offense that carries 15 years to life in state prison.

Voluntary Manslaughter

Voluntary manslaughter occurs when a person intentionally kills another in the heat of passion or under an unreasonable belief in the need for self-defense (PC § 192(a)). It involves an intentional act without malice “upon a sudden quarrel or heat of passion.” This wobbler offense carries 3, 6, or 11 years in state prison. 

Involuntary Manslaughter

Involuntary manslaughter occurs when a person unintentionally causes the death of another through criminal negligence or by committing an unlawful act that is not a felony (PC § 192(b)). This includes deaths resulting from careless, reckless, or negligent behavior that falls short of malice. The wobbler offense carries up to four years in state prison and $10,000 in fines.  

Vehicular Manslaughter

Vehicular manslaughter occurs when a person causes the death of another through criminally negligent or unlawful driving (PC § 192(c)). This includes deaths resulting from reckless driving, traffic violations, or failure to exercise ordinary care. This is a wobbler offense that carries up to 1 year in county jail for misdemeanors and 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in state prison for felonies.

Gross Vehicular Manslaughter While Intoxicated

Gross vehicular manslaughter occurs when a person unlawfully kills another while driving under the influence (PC § 191.5(a)). “Gross negligence” goes beyond ordinary carelessness and involves a wanton disregard for the safety of others. The grossly negligent act must violate a DUI statute and contribute to the death. This is a felony offense that carries 4, 6, or 10 years in state prison and up to $10,000 in fines. 

What Is the Difference Between Murder & Manslaughter?

The primary difference between murder and manslaughter is the presence of malice aforethought, which refers to either express malice (the defendant demonstrated a specific intent to kill) or implied malice (the defendant demonstrated a conscious disregard for human life).

In some cases, it may be possible to reduce murder charges to manslaughter charges if the unlawful killing resulted from the heat of passion or provocation. We can examine the facts of your case and advocate for reduced charges when possible.

Does California Have the Death Penalty?

While California has the death penalty, the state has not performed an execution since 2006. In March 2019, Governor Gavin Newsom signed an executive order instituting a moratorium on the death penalty. We can explain how the death penalty may apply to your case and zealously defend your life and liberty at every turn. 

What Are the Potential Outcomes of a Homicide Conviction?

A homicide conviction carries far-reaching consequences beyond prison time. In addition to lengthy incarceration sentences, defendants may also face difficulty obtaining employment or housing, immigration consequences, restrictions on firearms, and lasting social and personal ramifications that extend well beyond the courtroom.

This is why hiring a homicide defense lawyer is essential. As a recognized trial advocate with state and national honors, our defense attorney is uniquely positioned to safeguard your future and mitigate the lasting impacts of a criminal conviction on your life.

Defending Against Homicide Charges

Some common legal defenses against homicide charges include:

• Self-defense. If you acted to protect yourself from imminent harm, we can argue that your actions were necessary for self-defense.
• Mistaken identity. If you were mistakenly identified as the perpetrator, we can gather evidence to establish an alibi and prove your innocence.
• Lack of intent. If the death was accidental and did not involve an intent to kill, we can fight to reduce the charge.   
• Mental incapacity. If you were incapable of understanding your actions, we can argue that you lacked the mental state required for a conviction.

Reasons to Work with Our Homicide Defense Lawyer

When you’re facing serious felony charges, hiring the right lawyer can mean the difference between retaining your freedom and facing lengthy prison sentences. Some important reasons to work with our nationally acclaimed defense attorney include:

Decades of Criminal Defense Experience

We pride ourselves on our unrivaled track record of success and decades of criminal defense experience.

State Bar-Certified Criminal Law Specialist

Our lawyer is bar-certified in criminal law by the state of California, underscoring her proven proficiency in criminal matters.

National Leadership

Our attorney is a member of the National College of DUI Defense and has held national leadership roles with the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.

Proven Trial Advocate

Our nationally recognized trial attorney has earned state and national honors for courtroom excellence.

Hands-On Representation

We provide focused, client-focused representation and direct attorney involvement in every case. 

Peer Recognition

Our defense attorney has strong peer recognition and a well-respected reputation among the local legal community. 

Facing a homicide charge can be intimidating, but you don’t have to navigate the criminal justice system alone. Contact us online to discuss your case.