Justia Badge
LACBA Badge
Avvo Clients Choice Award 2018
The State Bar of California
Best Lawyers
Lawyers of Distinction
Super Lawyers - Matthew Barhoma 2022
Super Lawyers - Matthew Barhoma Rising Stars
Court TV
Forbes
Fox News
KTLA 5
Law & Crime Trial Network
People
Top 40
Yahoo News
Los Angeles Times

California Penal Code Section 192(a): Voluntary Manslaughter

Introduction to Voluntary Manslaughter (PC 192a)


California Penal Code Section 192(a) defines voluntary manslaughter as the unlawful killing of another person during a sudden quarrel, in the heat of passion, or based on an unreasonable belief in the need for self-defense. Unlike murder, voluntary manslaughter does not involve malice aforethought, which significantly reduces the severity of the offense. Instead, the crime typically arises from situations where the defendant acted impulsively under emotional duress, without planning or premeditation.

If you or a loved one is facing such charges in Los Angeles or Orange County, immediate legal counsel is crucial to ensure your rights are protected. Contact Power Trial Lawyers at 213-800-7664 for criminal defense representation.

If you or a loved-one are being investigated or accused of California Penal Code 192(a), Voluntary Manslaughter, it’s important to contact an attorney immediately. You can consult with an attorney with Power Trial Lawyers by contacting us at 213-800-7664.

Under PC 192(a), the key elements required to establish voluntary manslaughter are:

  • Unlawful Killing: The defendant must have killed another person without a legal justification.
  • Heat of Passion or Sudden Quarrel: The killing occurs when emotions are inflamed by circumstances like provocation, making rational judgment difficult.
  • No Malice Aforethought: Unlike murder, voluntary manslaughter is not premeditated and lacks malicious intent, although the act is still intentional.

The distinction between murder and voluntary manslaughter lies in the defendant’s state of mind. Voluntary manslaughter occurs in emotionally charged scenarios where a person might respond violently without fully controlling their actions.

Penalties for Voluntary Manslaughter


Voluntary manslaughter is a felony offense in California, and the penalties are severe. Convictions can result in:

  • Imprisonment for 3, 6, or 11 years in a state prison.
  • Fines up to $10,000.
  • A “strike” under California’s Three Strikes Law, which could enhance future sentencing.
  • Potential loss of firearm rights and community service obligations.

While these penalties are substantial, they are still lighter than those for murder, which can carry life imprisonment or the death penalty. The reduced penalty reflects the absence of malice aforethought, distinguishing voluntary manslaughter from more premeditated homicide offenses.

Defenses to Voluntary Manslaughter Charges

Several legal defenses can be employed to reduce or dismiss voluntary manslaughter charges:

  1. Self-defense: If the defendant genuinely believed their life or the life of another was in immediate danger, they may claim self-defense, even if the belief was unreasonable.
  2. Heat of Passion: If the defendant was provoked to such an extent that they acted impulsively, without time for calm reflection, this could mitigate the charge.
  3. Accidental Killing: In some cases, the death may have been an unintended result of lawful actions, which could negate a manslaughter charge.

Successfully asserting these defenses requires a thorough investigation into the circumstances, including gathering evidence like eyewitness testimony, surveillance footage, or expert opinions.

Comparison to Other Homicide Offenses

Voluntary manslaughter under PC 192(a) is distinguished from other forms of homicide in California law, such as:

  • Involuntary Manslaughter (PC 192(b)): This involves unintentional killings due to negligence or during non-violent crimes.
  • Vehicular Manslaughter (PC 192(c)): This refers to deaths caused by reckless or negligent driving.
  • Murder (PC 187): Murder involves the intentional killing of another person with malice aforethought, making it a more serious crime than manslaughter.

f you are facing voluntary manslaughter charges, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney to navigate the legal process and protect your future. With offices in both Los Angeles and Orange CountyPower Trial Lawyers specialize in defending serious criminal charges, including voluntary manslaughter. They have a proven track record of achieving reduced charges or dismissals in complex cases.

To discuss your case and develop a defense strategy, contact Power Trial Lawyers at 213-800-7664 in Los Angeles and Orange County.

Client Reviews

Matthew is the most knowledgeable lawyer. I have worked with teams of lawyers and none of them were as knowledgeable and prompt as Matthew. I trust all of my company’s legal affairs with Matthew. He makes me rest easy knowing he is on it.

Michael

Matthew is the epitome of hard work and dedication, when it comes to his work. Matthew has helped me with all my contractual work needed to help me launch my start up. Matthew is honest, diligent and relentless.

Carol

Matthew was very responsive and caring for my case. He handled my case with efficiency and made sure to secure exactly what we wanted. He has represented my company previously and when we needed a lawyer, it was no question – we phoned Matthew!

Tony

Contact Us

  1. 1 Free Consultation
  2. 2 Available 24/7
  3. 3 Appeals and Litigation Attorney
Fill out the contact form or call us at (213) 800-7664 to schedule your free consultation.

Leave Us a Message