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Los Angeles Involuntary Manslaughter Attorney

Involuntary manslaughter, while less serious than a murder charge, may still carry significant penalties and collateral consequences upon conviction. If you are currently facing a charge for involuntary manslaughter, the Los Angeles legal team at Rodriguez Law Group can help. Our lawyers can meet with you to discuss your circumstances, determine your legal options, and pursue the best possible result in your case.

For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a skilled Los Angeles involuntary manslaughter lawyer, please call us at (213) 995-6767 or contact us online for more information.

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Why Should Our Los Angeles Involuntary Manslaughter Lawyers Represent You?

Given everything that is riding on the line, you want the best possible legal team representing you throughout your Los Angeles involuntary manslaughter case. At Rodriguez Law Group, our attorneys can aggressively fight for your interests and protect your rights at every stage of the proceedings. Several of our lawyers are former prosecutors, and consequently, we are able to view your case from every possible angle. Our attorneys can aggressively pursue a favorable plea deal in your case or advance a strong legal defense on your behalf in the courtroom.

Our lawyers have a strong track record of success, and our most recent client testimonials can be viewed here.

Our Downtown Los Angeles office is conveniently located at 626 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 460, Los Angeles, CA 90017. Let us help you pursue the best possible result available to you in your Los Angeles involuntary manslaughter case.

Successfully Defending Against an Involuntary Manslaughter Charge in Los Angeles

When facing an involuntary manslaughter charge in Los Angeles, several important legal defenses may be available to you. Those defenses can include:

• Lack of Intent – Involuntary manslaughter typically involves causing death unintentionally or without malice aforethought. If you can show that the death occurred accidentally and that you did not intend to cause harm, it may serve as a defense against your charge.
• Self-Defense or Defense of Others – If you were acting in self-defense or defense of others when the death occurred, you may be able to argue that your actions were justified. You must show that you reasonably believed your life or the lives of others were in imminent danger and that your response was necessary to prevent harm.
• Accident – If the death resulted from a genuine accident and not from negligence or recklessness on your part, you may have a defense against the involuntary manslaughter charge. This defense relies on showing that you took reasonable precautions to prevent harm but that an unforeseeable event led to the fatal outcome.
• Mistaken Identity – In some cases, mistaken identity or misidentification of the perpetrator may be a viable defense. If there is doubt about whether you were actually responsible for the death, you can challenge the prosecution’s evidence and argue that you were not the person who committed the alleged offense.
• Insufficient Evidence – Challenging the prosecution’s evidence and raising doubts about its reliability can be an effective defense strategy. If the prosecution fails to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you committed involuntary manslaughter, you are entitled to an acquittal.
• Procedural Errors – Any procedural errors or violations of your constitutional rights during the investigation or trial process can provide grounds for dismissal of the charges against you. This can include illegal searches or coerced confessions.

The experienced Los Angeles involuntary manslaughter lawyers at Rodriguez Law Group can work towards achieving the best possible outcome in your case by raising one or more defenses on your behalf.

What Must a Prosecutor Prove in a Los Angeles Involuntary Manslaughter Case?

In Los Angeles, for a prosecutor to secure a conviction against you for involuntary manslaughter, they need to prove several key elements beyond a reasonable doubt. Those elements include all of the following:

• Causation – The prosecutor must demonstrate that your actions directly caused the death of another person. This means showing that there was a direct link between your conduct and the fatal outcome. The prosecution will need to establish that, but for your actions, the death would not have occurred.
• Criminal Negligence – Involuntary manslaughter often involves unintentional killings that result from criminal negligence. This means that the prosecutor must prove that you acted with a reckless disregard for the safety of others or failed to exercise reasonable care under the circumstances. The level of negligence required for a conviction can vary, but it generally involves conduct that a reasonable person would have recognized as posing a substantial risk of harm.
• State of Mind – While involuntary manslaughter does not require intent to kill, the prosecutor still needs to show that you acted with a certain state of mind. This can include recklessness, gross negligence, or conduct that demonstrates a disregard for human life. The prosecution must prove that you were aware of the risk your actions posed but chose to disregard it.
• Foreseeability – The prosecution must establish that a reasonable person in your position would have foreseen the risk of harm that your actions created. This involves considering whether the consequences of your conduct were reasonably foreseeable at the time.
• Absence of Legal Justification or Excuse – Finally, the prosecutor must demonstrate that there was no legal justification or excuse for your actions. This means showing that you were not acting in self-defense, defense of others, or under any other legally recognized justification for causing harm.

To secure a conviction for involuntary manslaughter, the prosecutor must prove each of these legal elements beyond a reasonable doubt. If there is doubt about any aspect of the case, or if the evidence is insufficient to establish any of these elements, you may be acquitted of the charges. The skilled Los Angeles involuntary manslaughter lawyers at Rodriguez Law Group can challenge the prosecution’s case and protect your rights throughout the legal process.

Potential Legal Penalties upon Conviction for a Los Angeles Involuntary Manslaughter Charge

If convicted of involuntary manslaughter in Los Angeles, you may face serious legal penalties that can have a significant effect on your life. The court determines these penalties which may vary based upon the specific circumstances of your case:

• Prison Sentence – One of the most severe penalties for involuntary manslaughter is a prison sentence. In California, the punishment for involuntary manslaughter can range from two to four years in state prison. However, aggravating factors such as a prior criminal history or the circumstances of the offense can result in a longer sentence.
• Fines – In addition to imprisonment, the court may impose fines as part of your sentence. These fines can amount to thousands of dollars and are intended to serve as a form of punishment and deterrence.
• Probation – Instead of or in addition to prison time, the court may impose a period of probation. During probation, you will be required to comply with certain conditions that the court establishes, including regular check-ins with a probation officer, participation in counseling programs, and abstaining from drugs and alcohol. Violating probation can result in further legal consequences, including additional jail time.
• Restitution – If the victim’s family incurred expenses as a result of the death, such as medical bills or funeral costs, the court may order you to pay restitution to compensate them for their losses.

Given the severity of the potential penalties for involuntary manslaughter, it is crucial to seek experienced legal representation to defend against your charges. At Rodriguez Law Group, we can aggressively advocate on your behalf, challenge the prosecution’s case, and work to lessen the consequences you face.

Potential Collateral Consequences of an Involuntary Manslaughter Charge in Los Angeles

Beyond the immediate legal penalties, an involuntary manslaughter conviction in Los Angeles can bring about significant collateral consequences that can affect various aspects of your life:

• Employment – A criminal conviction, especially for a serious offense like involuntary manslaughter, can make it challenging to secure employment. Many employers conduct background checks, and a criminal record may disqualify you from certain job opportunities or professions.
• Housing – Landlords often conduct background checks on prospective tenants, and a criminal conviction can make it difficult for you to find housing. You may encounter barriers when trying to rent an apartment or house, as landlords may view you as a high risk.
• Education – Some educational institutions may have policies that prohibit individuals with criminal convictions from enrolling or participating in certain programs. Additionally, a criminal record may affect your eligibility for financial aid or scholarships.
• Professional Licenses – Certain professions require individuals to hold licenses or certifications, and a criminal conviction may result in the suspension or revocation of these credentials. This can affect your ability to work in fields such as healthcare, law, or education.
• Immigration Status – Non-citizens convicted of involuntary manslaughter may face deportation or other immigration consequences. A criminal conviction can negatively affect your immigration status and may lead to removal proceedings.
• Personal Relationships – A criminal conviction can strain personal relationships with friends, family members, and romantic partners. Some people may view you differently or distance themselves from you due to your criminal record.

These collateral consequences highlight the importance of seeking effective legal representation and exploring all available defense options when facing an involuntary manslaughter charge.

Accepting a Plea Deal on a Los Angeles Involuntary Manslaughter Charge

Accepting a plea deal in a Los Angeles involuntary manslaughter case can offer several potential benefits that are worth considering:

• Reduced Charges – In many cases, prosecutors may offer a plea deal that involves pleading guilty to a lesser offense than involuntary manslaughter, such as negligent homicide or manslaughter without malice. By accepting this deal, you may face less-severe penalties than if you were convicted of involuntary manslaughter.
• Lower Sentencing – Plea deals often come with reduced sentencing recommendations from the prosecution. This means you may receive a lighter sentence, such as a shorter prison term or probation, compared to what you can face if you were convicted at trial.
• Certainty – Going to trial carries inherent risks, including the possibility of a harsher sentence if you are convicted. By accepting a plea deal, you can eliminate the uncertainty of a trial outcome and have a clearer understanding of the consequences you will face.
• Efficiency – Trials can be lengthy and expensive, involving significant time and resources for both the prosecution and defense. Accepting a plea deal can expedite the legal process, saving time and money for everyone involved.
• Avoiding Publicity – Trials are often public proceedings, and the details of your case may receive media attention. By accepting a plea deal, you can avoid the potentially negative publicity associated with a trial and maintain a lower profile.
• Closure – Accepting a plea deal can provide a sense of closure and allows you to begin the process of moving forward with your life.

Ultimately, whether to accept a plea deal in an involuntary manslaughter case is a personal decision that should be made in consultation with an experienced Los Angeles involuntary manslaughter attorney. At Rodriguez Law Group, we can help you assess the strengths and weaknesses of your case and determine whether a plea deal is in your best interests given the circumstances.

What to do after an Arrest for Involuntary Manslaughter in Los Angeles

If you’ve been arrested for involuntary manslaughter in Los Angeles, taking the following steps is crucial:

• Contact an Attorney – The first and most important step is to seek legal representation from a skilled involuntary manslaughter lawyer in Los Angeles. At Rodriguez Law Group, we can provide guidance, protect your rights, and advocate on your behalf throughout the legal process.
• Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent – It’s essential to remember that you have the right to remain silent and avoid self-incrimination. Refrain from speaking to law enforcement officers without having us present, as anything you say can be used against you in court.
• Gather Evidence – If possible, gather any evidence that may support your defense, such as witness statements, surveillance footage, or documentation of the incident. Share this information with us to help build a strong defense strategy.
• Follow Legal Procedures – Cooperate with all procedures, such as court appearances and meetings with our legal team. Failing to comply with these requirements can have negative consequences for your case.
• Stay Informed – Stay informed about the status of your case and any developments that may arise.

By taking these important steps and working closely with our experienced lawyers, you can effectively navigate the legal process and work towards achieving the best possible outcome in your case.

Talk With a Skilled Los Angeles Involuntary Manslaughter Lawyer Today

If you are currently facing a criminal charge for involuntary manslaughter in Los Angeles, the skilled team at Rodriguez Law Group is here to help. Our lawyers have the knowledge and experience necessary to aggressively advocate on your behalf and pursue the best possible outcome in your criminal case.

For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a Los Angeles criminal defense attorney, please call us at (213) 995-6767 or contact us online.