Michael Jackson Doctor to Stand Trial for Involuntary Manslaughter – PC 192(b)

On January 11, 2011, a Los Angeles Superior Court ordered Dr. Conrad Murray to stand trial for involuntary manslaughter in connection with the overdose death of Michael Jackson.

After six days of preliminary hearing, the court determined that probable cause existed to show that Dr. Murray was culpable in Jackson’s death.  Prosecutors alleged that Dr. Murray administered a dangerously high dose of powerful anesthetic to Jackson, which led to Jackson’s cardiac arrest and subsequent death.  Evidence indicated that Jackson had previously been prescribed the anesthetic and he may have been addicted to it.  Testimony focused on his actions just prior to Jackson’s death and whether Dr. Murray provided an appropriate level of medical care.

In California, involuntary manslaughter is the unlawful killing of another human being during the commission of a non-felony crime, or while defendant was performing a lawful act reasonably likely to cause death in an unreasonably dangerous way.  (PC 192(b).)   Involuntary manslaughter is punishable by up to four years in prison.  (PC 193(b).)

If you have been accused of involuntary manslaughter, contact a Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer immediately to discuss your options.  The events leading to the incident will be highly relevant to your defense, especially if the issue is whether you acted reasonably under the circumstances.  If the incident occurred as a result of your professional performance, as in Dr. Murray’s case, you will likely need to hire an expert witness to testify whether, in the expert’s opinion, you met the professional standard of care.

If you have been accused of a homicide, you will need an experienced Los Angeles criminal defense attorney to vigorously represent you.  At Wallin & Klarich, we have helped people accused of manslaughter and murder for over 30 years.  Call us today at (888) 764-2615 or visit us at our website at www.wklaw.com. We will be there when you call.