Maryland law defines manslaughter as the killing of another individual. Unlike murder, manslaughter doesn’t involve malice or premeditation. There are multiple types of manslaughter, each with different definitions and penalties. It’s a serious offense that, if convicted, adds a felony to your record.
Understanding the legal implications of a manslaughter conviction is crucial if you’re facing charges. A conviction can jeopardize your future and freedom, affecting all aspects of your personal and professional life. So, it’s important to thoroughly understand the legal implications of such a conviction and enlist the help of a knowledgeable manslaughter lawyer in Maryland to ensure you can pursue the best possible outcome.
Types of Manslaughter
There are two types of manslaughter: voluntary and involuntary.
Voluntary manslaughter is unlawful killing, but unlike a first-degree murder charge, it doesn’t involve malice. It can be the result of being provoked or getting into a fight or physical alteration that results in the death of a person. While it doesn’t involve premeditation or malice, voluntary manslaughter involves the intent to harm or kill the victim.
For example, suppose a fight breaks out and someone attacks you. You defend yourself, resulting in the attacker’s death. If you intended to harm the victim, even in self-defense, it could be considered voluntary manslaughter.
Involuntary manslaughter, on the other hand, stems from recklessness, negligence, or a criminal action. Like voluntary manslaughter, involuntary manslaughter doesn’t involve premeditation or malice. Vehicular manslaughter, whether due to driving under the influence (DUI), distracted driving, or reckless driving, is an example of involuntary manslaughter. Since this type doesn’t involve intent, like voluntary manslaughter, it’s considered involuntary.
Driving under the influence is a common example of involuntary manslaughter. If you were driving while drunk or driving recklessly, striking the victim and causing their death, you could be convicted of involuntary manslaughter.
Legal Penalties for Manslaughter
The legal penalties for manslaughter in Maryland vary based on the type. Voluntary manslaughter is punishable by up to 10 years in prison or up to two years in jail and $500 in fines.
Involuntary manslaughter can carry similar penalties. For example, vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence is punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000. Vehicular manslaughter with criminal negligence can carry a punishment of up to three years in prison and up to $5,000 in fines.
These charges are considerably more lenient than those involved in first or second-degree murder in Maryland. First-degree murder, the most serious homicide crime in Maryland, carries a punishment of up to life in prison, with or without parole. Second-degree murder, a killing that isn’t premeditated or intentional, is punishable by up to 40 years in prison with or without the possibility of parole.
Defending Against Manslaughter Charges
Possible defense strategies against a manslaughter charge vary based on the specifics of your case but may include:
- Self-defense: If you believe your actions were necessary to protect yourself from imminent harm, self-defense can be a viable part of your defense strategy.
- Defense of others: This goes hand-in-hand with self-defense. In this case, you may argue that you caused the death in the defense of others, meaning you believed your actions were necessary to protect another person or people from imminent harm.
- Accidental killing: In some instances, such as in involuntary manslaughter cases, the defense may argue that the death was the result of an accident and not the result of reckless or negligent behavior.
- Lack of intent: Intent is integral to a voluntary manslaughter case. If you didn’t intend to harm or kill the victim, your lawyer may argue a lack of intent.
- Alibi: If you were somewhere else at the time of the incident and can provide evidence of that, you may use your alibi as part of your defense strategy to cast doubt on your involvement in the crime.
Not all defense strategies apply to all cases. Your lawyer can help you determine which may apply in your case by carefully examining the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The Importance of an Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer in Manslaughter Cases
Help from an experienced criminal defense lawyer is paramount in a manslaughter defense case. Maryland’s laws surrounding manslaughter charges are complex and can be difficult to navigate without a legal background. Given the potential consequences of a conviction, legal representation is crucial.
Our skilled manslaughter defense lawyers at Jezic & Moyse can provide the guidance and support you need to navigate the legal process. We will guide you through every phase of the process, ensuring you understand your rights, options, and the legal implications of a conviction.
We will:
- Carefully analyze the details of your case to determine your legal options
- Conduct an investigation to gather evidence, such as witness statements, expert testimonies, and police reports
- Develop a strategic defense tailored to your specific circumstances
- Challenge the prosecution’s case, cross-examining witnesses and presenting compelling arguments
- Advocate for your rights and interests to pursue the best possible outcome
- Provide sound legal guidance to help you understand the implications of the charges you face and how to proceed
- Represent you through all stages of the legal process
We’re well-versed in criminal cases, including manslaughter defense cases. Our in-depth knowledge of Maryland’s legal system and experience with these cases can be an invaluable asset to help you safeguard your rights and pursue the best possible outcome in the face of manslaughter charges.
Consult With Our Experienced Manslaughter Defense Lawyers for Help With Your Case
If you’re facing manslaughter charges, our experienced manslaughter defense lawyers can help you determine your legal options. At Jezic & Moyse, we’ve helped many Maryland residents traverse the intricacies of their cases to pursue favorable outcomes. We can help you do the same. Contact us today at (240) 292-7200 or complete our online contact form to start with a consultation.