A vehicular manslaughter charge can upend your life overnight. One tragic accident, a moment of distraction, or a misunderstood situation can lead to devastating legal consequences. If you or a loved one is facing charges, working with an experienced vehicular manslaughter lawyer in Fullerton is essential to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome.
At Not Guilty Law, we understand that good people can find themselves in bad situations—and that every case deserves a strong, smart defense.
What Is Vehicular Manslaughter in California?
California Penal Code § 192(c) defines vehicular manslaughter as the unlawful killing of another person without malice, committed while operating a motor vehicle. There are three main types:
- Vehicular Manslaughter with Gross Negligence
This charge applies when a person drives in a reckless manner that demonstrates a disregard for human life. Examples include excessive speeding, illegal street racing, or texting while driving in a dangerous setting. - Vehicular Manslaughter Without Gross Negligence
This lesser charge involves ordinary negligence, such as failing to stop at a red light or making an improper lane change that leads to a fatal accident. - Vehicular Manslaughter While Intoxicated
This is a separate and more serious charge under Penal Code § 191.5, and is often filed when the driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs during the fatal incident.
Each of these offenses carries different penalties, which is why it’s critical to work with a seasoned Fullerton vehicular manslaughter lawyer to understand what you’re facing.
Penalties for Vehicular Manslaughter in Fullerton
Depending on the type of charge and whether it’s filed as a misdemeanor or felony, potential penalties can include:
- Misdemeanor:
- Up to 1 year in county jail
- Fines of up to $1,000
- Probation
- License suspension
- Felony (Gross Negligence):
- 2 to 6 years in state prison
- Substantial fines and fees
- Lengthy probation or parole
- Civil lawsuits from victims’ families
- Felony (While Intoxicated):
- Up to 10 years in state prison, or more if enhancements apply
- Mandatory license revocation
- Enrollment in DUI programs
- Possible designation as a “habitual traffic offender”
In addition to these legal penalties, a conviction can have long-term effects on your personal and professional life. That’s why hiring a trusted Fullerton criminal defense attorney like Jeffrey Kent is essential from the beginning.
How We Build a Strong Defense
At Not Guilty Law, our legal strategy always begins with a thorough analysis of the facts. In vehicular manslaughter cases, we:
- Review police and accident reports
- Consult with accident reconstruction experts
- Challenge toxicology results or field sobriety tests
- Investigate possible mechanical failures or environmental factors
- Analyze video footage, 911 calls, and witness statements
Our experience with high-stakes cases is reflected in our Notable Cases section, where we’ve helped clients navigate some of the most complex criminal charges in Fullerton and beyond.
Legal Defenses to Vehicular Manslaughter
Every case is unique, but common legal defenses include:
1. You Were Not the Driver
In some cases, there is uncertainty over who was actually behind the wheel at the time of the crash.
2. No Gross Negligence
If the incident was a tragic accident but not the result of reckless or grossly negligent behavior, we can fight to reduce or dismiss the charges.
3. Intervening Cause
If another driver’s actions, poor road design, or a mechanical issue caused the fatality, we will gather evidence to prove that you were not at fault.
4. False Positive DUI Results
Breathalyzer or blood test errors, improper calibration, or testing delays can lead to wrongful DUI-related manslaughter charges.
Explore more of our approach by visiting the Practice Areas page.
Why Choose Jeffrey Kent as Your Vehicular Manslaughter Lawyer in Fullerton?
With over three decades of experience in criminal law, Jeffrey Kent brings a powerful combination of trial skill, investigative ability, and client care to every case. His track record includes successful resolutions in cases involving fatalities, DUI-related charges, and wrongful arrests.
We encourage you to read real Client Reviews to understand how we’ve helped others through some of the most difficult moments of their lives.
“I thought my life was over after my accident. Mr. Kent took the time to understand my story and fought hard to make sure I wasn’t judged unfairly. I’ll never forget what he did for me.”
— Former Client, Fullerton
FAQs About Vehicular Manslaughter Charges
Can I be charged with vehicular manslaughter if the other driver caused the accident?
Not necessarily. Liability must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. If evidence shows the other party was primarily responsible, your charges may be dropped.
Will I lose my driver’s license automatically?
In many cases, yes. But we can challenge the suspension through DMV hearings and fight to restore your driving privileges.
What should I do immediately after being charged?
Contact a vehicular manslaughter attorney immediately and do not speak to police without legal representation. Visit our FAQ page for more guidance.
Schedule Your Confidential Case Review
Facing a vehicular manslaughter charge can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to go through it alone. We’re here to listen, investigate, and fight for the outcome you deserve.
Visit our Contact page to schedule a consultation. You can also learn more about our firm and philosophy on the About page.
Don’t leave your future to chance.
Hire a top vehicular manslaughter lawyer in Fullerton to protect your rights today.
Contact Jeffrey Kent now.