Facing a homicide charge in Atlanta is overwhelming, with consequences that can permanently alter your life and future. Georgia law imposes some of the harshest penalties for homicide-related offenses, including life imprisonment and, in certain cases, the death penalty. At Rafus Law, an Atlanta homicide lawyer provides aggressive, strategic defense for individuals accused of murder, manslaughter, and related offenses. From the moment an investigation begins, having legal representation is important.
The aggressive criminal defense attorneys at Rafus Law work to protect your rights, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and pursue every available defense to achieve the best possible outcome in your case.
Under state law, homicide generally refers to one person killing another and includes several distinct criminal offenses based on intent, circumstances, and state of mind. Georgia primarily classifies homicide as malice murder, felony murder, or manslaughter, with each category carrying different legal standards and penalties.
Malice murder occurs when a person intentionally causes another’s death with express or implied malice, meaning the state alleges a deliberate intent to kill or conduct showing a reckless disregard for human life. Felony murder applies when a death occurs during the commission of a dangerous felony, such as armed robbery or aggravated assault, even without an intent to kill.
Not every alleged taking of another life results in charges as serious as homicide. Georgia law also recognizes voluntary manslaughter, which involves a killing committed in the heat of passion due to serious provocation, and involuntary manslaughter, which applies when a death results from a lawful or unlawful act performed without due caution.
Penalties for homicide vary widely based on how the offense is classified and the circumstances surrounding the death. An Atlanta homicide lawyer could explain how Georgia law applies to each charge and which penalties may be at issue. Malice murder stands as the most serious homicide offense and carries potential penalties of life imprisonment, with or without the possibility of parole, or, in limited cases, the death penalty. Felony murder, which involves a death that occurs during the commission of a dangerous felony, carries the same potential penalties as malice murder.
Voluntary manslaughter involves a killing committed in the heat of passion due to serious provocation and is punishable by one to 20 years in prison. Involuntary manslaughter applies when a death results from reckless or negligent conduct and is divided into degrees. First-degree involuntary manslaughter carries a sentence of one to 10 years, while second-degree involuntary manslaughter is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail.
Homicide is an extremely serious criminal charge given the potential penalties involved. Working with an Atlanta homicide lawyer early in the process could provide guidance and representation throughout each stage of the case. When retained, a homicide lawyer could take the following steps in support of your defense:
If you have been charged with homicide in Atlanta, seeking legal help immediately is critical. Support from an Atlanta homicide lawyer could help protect your rights and pursue the most favorable resolution available, whether that involves challenging the allegations or evaluating a negotiated plea. Take decisive action by scheduling an initial consultation with a homicide lawyer at Rafus Law to begin building a strong defense today.
