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When you’re facing vehicular manslaughter charges in Chula Vista, you need a criminal defense attorney who knows how to fight for your rights and your future. At David P. Shapiro Criminal Defense Attorneys, we bring years of experience and a track record of success to every case we handle.
From the moment you contact our firm, we’ll work to build a strong defense strategy tailored to the unique facts of your case. With our deep knowledge of California’s vehicular manslaughter laws and our proven ability to get results in the courtroom, you can trust us to be your dedicated allies throughout the legal process. We’re here to protect your rights, your freedom, and your future.
Under California Penal Code Section 192(c), vehicular manslaughter is a crime that occurs when a person driving a vehicle causes the death of another person. There are three main types of vehicular manslaughter charges in California:
Vehicular manslaughter with ordinary negligence, covered under California Penal Code Section 192(c)(2), occurs when a driver commits a misdemeanor, infraction, or otherwise lawful act with ordinary negligence, and this act causes the death of another person. Ordinary negligence means the driver failed to use reasonable care to prevent foreseeable harm to someone else.
Key elements:
Penalties can include misdemeanor probation, up to 1 year in county jail, and/or a fine of up to $1,000.
Vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence, defined in California Penal Code Section 192(c)(1), is a more serious charge that applies when a driver acts with gross negligence, rather than ordinary negligence. Gross negligence involves acting recklessly in a way that creates a high risk of death or great bodily injury.
Key elements:
This offense is a wobbler that can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony. Misdemeanor penalties include up to 1 year in jail, while felony penalties can include 2, 4, or 6 years in state prison.
California Penal Code Section 192(c)(3) covers the crime of vehicular manslaughter for financial gain. This applies when a driver causes a fatal accident while purposely crashing a vehicle in order to commit auto insurance fraud.
Key elements:
As a felony, vehicular manslaughter for financial gain can result in a $10,000 fine and a state prison sentence of 4, 6, or 10 years.
Regardless of the specific charges, vehicular manslaughter cases are complex and the stakes are high. If you’ve been accused of this offense, you need an experienced Chula Vista vehicular manslaughter attorney who can protect your rights and build the strongest possible defense.
At David P. Shapiro Criminal Defense Attorneys, we take a proactive and strategic approach to defending vehicular manslaughter cases in San Diego County. When you hire us, our skilled legal team will:
As experienced attorneys, we have a strong understanding of how the government builds and argues these cases. We use this knowledge to craft effective defense strategies tailored to the unique facts of your situation. Whether through pretrial preparation or skilled courtroom advocacy, we will fight tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome on your behalf.
Vehicular manslaughter is a distinct offense from other homicide charges like murder or involuntary manslaughter. Some key differences include:
Understanding these nuances is crucial to building an effective defense strategy. Our experienced Chula Vista vehicular manslaughter lawyers will analyze the specific facts of your case to determine the most appropriate approach and work tirelessly to protect your rights.
While every case is unique, there are several common defenses that may be applicable in a vehicular manslaughter case, such as:
Our attorneys will investigate your case to identify and develop the most compelling defense arguments. We will leave no stone unturned in fighting for your innocence and your future.
If you are arrested or questioned about a fatal accident, it’s essential to remember your rights and take immediate steps to protect yourself.Call our firm as soon as possible so we can intervene and ensure your rights are respected.
Remember, the early stages of a vehicular manslaughter investigation are critical. Having a knowledgeable Chula Vista criminal defense attorney by your side from the start can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
If you or someone you love is facing criminal charges in California, swift action is imperative. The penalties can be life altering and long lasting. Give us a call today to set up a case evaluation with one of our attorneys and learn how to best protect your freedom and future. Too often, we see clients who “wait and see,” unsure of the legal landscape ahead, only for charges to escalate. They then find themselves backpedaling into a bad defense and an even worse lawyer. Don’t let that happen to you. Protect your freedom. Protect your future. Know your rights.
The contents of this article and blog are meant for informational and marketing purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Viewing and/or use of the blog does not form an attorney-client relationship. No statements in this post are a guarantee, warranty, or prediction of a particular result in your case.
Here’s what you need to know to regain control of your future
You have questions. We have answers. Check out our answers to some of the more frequently asked questions (FAQs) below. Want more information or have a question not answered here about how you can regain control of your future if charged with a crime? Give us a call at (619) 295-3555.
A conviction for vehicular manslaughter will likely result in a driver’s license suspension or revocation by the California DMV. We can help you understand the potential impact on your driving privileges.
Depending on the facts of your case, it may be possible to get your charges reduced or dismissed through pretrial motions or negotiations with the prosecutor. Our attorneys will explore every available option.
In some cases, it may be possible to have a vehicular manslaughter conviction expunged from your criminal record after serving your sentence and completing probation. We can advise you on your eligibility for expungement.
In California, it is the prosecutor’s decision whether to file criminal charges, not the alleged victim’s family. However, the family’s wishes may influence plea negotiations or sentencing decisions.
Not necessarily. Many cases are resolved through plea bargains or dismissals before trial. However, if a fair agreement cannot be reached, our skilled trial attorneys are prepared to defend you in court.
“I came to David Shapiro to end my probation early and expunge my case. I had a very positive and very informative experience with him. David and his assistant Maria were excellent and always kept in the loop of what was going on.”
“Helping good people get their lives back is not just a catch phrase. They mean what they say and are serious about taking care of the client. Ally Keegan and the team at Law Office of David Shapiro are AMAZING! My charges for a 25 plus year old case were dismissed, it was not easy but I truly believe that if I had went with any other Law Firm that the outcome would have been very different. Thank you Ally for helping me get my life back!”
“I called many lawyers after I got my DUI. Stefano was the only lawyer who put my mind at ease and gave me a sense of relief. He constantly communicated with me about my case and laid out all my options. He was willing and able to do whatever he could to help me. He went above and beyond what was expected.”
“I have used David 2 times in the past and he has by far exceeded my expectations. He has great knowledge and knows the system. He is straight forward and honest and somebody you can trust without doubt. I would recommend him to friends, family, and anybody that needs help. Best attorney I’ve ever come across.”
“Stefano Molea was extremely professional and consistently timely with responses to my questions. Most of all, Stefano was reliable. Stefano was diligent with discovery and always prepared and tenacious when relevant to the situation. Stefano is an attorney that you can count on for the best outcome. Thank you Stefano for all you did in my case. You’re so awesome!!!!”
“Ally was an absolute pleasure to work with. Her calm and reassuring demeanor was matched with her excellent knowledge, dedication, thoroughness. We unfortunately found ourselves in need of a criminal lawyer and we can without a doubt say that having Ally and her firm represent us from the beginning was the best choice we could have made.”
