Clearwater Manslaughter Lawyer
The government defines manslaughter as the unlawful killing of a human being without malice and within the special maritime and territorial jurisdiction of the United States. They recognized two types of manslaughter, voluntary and involuntary.
If you have been charged with either it is important to consult with a Clearwater manslaughter lawyer to discuss your case and begin building a defense. An experienced criminal defense attorney can prepare you for what to expect and make sure your rights are protected throughout the legal process.
Voluntary and Involuntary Manslaughter
There are two forms of manslaughter, voluntary and involuntary. Voluntary manslaughter is the charge when an individual kills someone in the heat of passion or while committing a felony. Involuntary manslaughter is when a death is caused by violation of a non-felony.
Voluntary manslaughter is when a person is killed upon a sudden quarrel or in the heat of passion. An example of voluntary manslaughter would be arguing with a person and things going a little too far. There was not the intention of killing the person but he or she is still dead.
Involuntary manslaughter is when a person is killed during the process of another unlawful act which does not amount to a felony, while acting in an unlawful manner (such as firing a gun into the sky which then results in the death of another citizen), or while acting without due caution or circumspection in a lawful action which might produce death.
Manslaughter Penalties
The manslaughter provisions are found in Title 18, Section 1112 of the United States Code. This code also outlines sentences for people convicted of manslaughter. For those convicted of voluntary manslaughter, the sentence consists of a fine, up to 10 years in prison, or a combination of the two. Those convicted of involuntary manslaughter can be fined, imprisoned for up to 6 years, or both.
Let Our Experienced Criminal Attorney Help
Florida is one of the states that allows the death penalty for murder. Because of this, and other grave consequences, it is important to retain the services of an experienced criminal defense lawyer. Contact the Clearwater manslaughter defense lawyers of the Law Offices of Tragos, Sartes & Tragos, PLLC to discuss your case. They can determine the best plan of defense for you and will ensure that your side of the story is heard in court and give you the best chance of avoiding a murder conviction.