Homicide Charges – FAQS
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Murder involves the unlawful killing of a person with malice aforethought, whereas manslaughter lacks this intent.Voluntary manslaughter occurs during a sudden quarrel or in the heat of passion, while involuntary manslaughter results from reckless or negligent actions.
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Yes. Under California's felony murder rule, if someone dies during the commission of certain felonies (like robbery or burglary), all participants can be charged with murder, regardless of who caused the death.
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First-degree murder is punishable by 25 years to life in state prison. If special circumstances are proven, such as multiple victims or murder for financial gain, the sentence can escalate to life without parole or the death penalty
Legal Disclaimer:
The information provided in the Fast Facts section is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is unique. For guidance specific to your situation, please contact KCW Law to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney.
Homicide Defense Lawyers in Riverside, CA
Former Prosecutors. Proven Trial Attorneys. Fierce Defense.
If you or a loved one is facing a homicide charge in Riverside County, your freedom—and your future—are on the line. At KCW Law, our attorneys have successfully defended clients charged with murder, attempted murder, and manslaughter, including special circumstance and gang-related homicides. With former prosecutors on your side and over 100 jury trials collectively, we know what it takes to win these cases.
What Is Homicide Under California Law?
Homicide is the unlawful killing of another person and includes several distinct charges under the California Penal Code: Read more at California Penal Code § 187 – Murder Law, California homicide jury instructions and Riverside criminal court information
First-Degree Murder – Penal Code § 187(a)
Willful, deliberate, and premeditated killing. Penalty: 25 years to life, LWOP, or death penalty.
Second-Degree Murder – Penal Code § 187(a)
Intentional but not premeditated murder. Penalty: 15 years to life.
Attempted Murder – Penal Code § 664/187
Attempted killing. Penalty: 5–9 years (2nd degree) or 15-to-life (1st degree with enhancements).
Voluntary Manslaughter – Penal Code § 192(a)
Killing in the heat of passion. Penalty: 3, 6, or 11 years.
Involuntary Manslaughter – Penal Code § 192(b)
Unintentional killing due to negligence. Penalty: 2, 3, or 4 years.
Vehicular Manslaughter – Penal Code § 192(c)
Death caused by negligent driving or DUI. Penalty: up to 1 year (misdemeanor) or 2–10 years (felony).
Gross Vehicular Manslaughter While Intoxicated – Penal Code § 191.5(a)
DUI causing death. Penalty: 4, 6, or 10 years; may be charged as Watson murder.
Special Circumstances – Penal Code § 190.2
Includes murder for gain, gang-related murders, multiple victims. Penalty: LWOP or death.
How KCW Law Defends Homicide Cases
At KCW Law, we understand how prosecutors build homicide cases—because we’ve been on that side. Now we use that knowledge to dismantle their case, piece by piece. Defense strategies may include:
- Challenging eyewitness credibility and forensic evidence
- Filing motions to suppress unconstitutional searches or statements
- Investigating self-defense and accident theories
- Presenting mental health or diminished capacity defenses
- Negotiating voluntary manslaughter or lesser-included offenses
- Litigating gang enhancements, firearm enhancements, and strike priors
Bilingual Defense You Can Trust
We proudly serve Spanish-speaking clients across Riverside and San Bernardino Counties. Somos abogados de defensa criminal que hablan español. Hablamos su idioma, explicamos su caso, y luchamos por su libertad.
Local, Experienced, and Relentless
KCW Law is located in Riverside, California, and serves clients throughout the Inland Empire. With our deep local ties, courtroom reputation, and decades of combined experience, we provide aggressive, skilled defense in the face of the most serious accusations.
Contact Us Now for a Free Consultation
Facing a homicide charge is terrifying—but you don’t have to go through it alone. Call KCW Law today at 626-720-1429 or fill out our online form for a confidential consultation. The sooner you contact us, the stronger your defense will be.