What is Manslaughter?
Not all cases of homicide rise to the level of murder. Murder involves premeditated killing and typically results in a mandatory prison sentence. In legal terms, premeditated thoughts are known as malice aforethought.
Sometimes the death of a person actually results from an accident or the reckless conduct of a person with no malice aforethought. In the absence of premeditation, the crime is considered manslaughter rather than murder.
Manslaughter includes the following classifications:
- Voluntary manslaughter usually occurs if a defendant is provoked or has a diminished capacity to reason. Voluntary manslaughter usually involves killing in the heat of passion or other agitated emotional state.
- Involuntary manslaughter usually occurs during the commission of a non-felony. In involuntary manslaughter cases, the death of a person results from the reckless conduct or negligence of another.
- Vehicular manslaughter is a common type of involuntary manslaughter. It often occurs when a person drives recklessly or under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The victim dies as a result of this negligent conduct or from injuries that ultimately lead to their death.
Fight for reduced charges
A manslaughter conviction often results in severe penalties and other negative repercussions that can seriously impact the rest of your life.
If you are facing manslaughter charges, you are probably too traumatized to properly evaluate your legal options. You need the help of a criminal defense attorney with the experience to advise and represent you. Choose an attorney with a record of success in fighting for optimal outcomes, including reduced or dismissed penalties and charges.
