Defending the Accused throughout California

In any given year, some California residents will face charges under the state's Vehicular Manslaughter PC 192(c) and 191.5(b) laws. When faced with these charges, individuals should consider working with an experienced defense attorney as soon as possible. The reason for this urgency is simple: if convicted of either of these charges, you or someone you love could face very serious penalties, including jail time. Working with a Visalia vehicular manslaughter lawyer is the best way to ensure that your rights are being protected, as well as being the best way to present a strong defense. Contact the Martens Law Firm.

What Is Vehicular Manslaughter PC 192(c)?

Your attorney will be able to provide more in-depth information, but, generally, you can be charged under Vehicular Manslaughter PC 192(c) if you are suspected of killing a person or persons while you were driving a vehicle, and the event was caused as a result of ordinary negligence. To win their case, however, the state must prove that you were driving and that you committed a lawful act in some type of unlawful manner. They must also prove that the act was dangerous to other persons, that they performed this action with ordinary negligence, and that this action caused the death of the person or persons.

What Are The Defenses of Vehicular Manslaughter PC 192(c)?

When you speak with a Visalia vehicular manslaughter lawyer, you will find that certain defenses may apply to your case. For instance, it may be proved that you were not negligent, that you did not cause the death, or that you were not operating the vehicle. The individual facts of your case will determine which (if any) defense would be best.

What Is California Penal Code 191.5(b)?

The charge of vehicular manslaughter can occur if the driver of a vehicle, while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, kills another person. To be convicted of this charge, the state must prove that the driver was indeed driving while under the influence. Also, they must prove that the driver committed an unlawful, or dangerous, act that is in addition to the DUI charge and that the driver's negligence caused the death of the person or persons.

Again, when faced with these charges, it is in your best interest to contact a Visalia criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. As with Vehicular Manslaughter PC 192(c), there are certain legal defenses under Penal Code 191.5(b) that your criminal lawyer may be able to present to the court. It is also important to keep in mind that you may be charged with a felony or a misdemeanor, depending on the facts of your case.

Contact Martens Law Firm

When you or someone you love is charged with Vehicular Manslaughter PC 192(c) or 191.5(b), working with an experienced and local lawyer is always in your best interest. The sentencing for these charges, if convicted, can be very severe and may include steep fines, loss of license, and jail time.

Remember, just because you are charged with a crime does not automatically mean you are guilty.