You do not need to intentionally take the life of another to face serious potential consequences under state law. Manslaughter can be charged in circumstances where the defendant may not have met the requirements to be convicted of murder, such as negligence in an accident or a mistaken belief that they were acting in self-defense. An Atlanta manslaughter lawyer at Rafus Law can provide legal guidance and represent you in defending against these charges.
Contact our aggressive criminal defense attorneys today for a free consultation.
There are two primary types of manslaughter that one can be charged with under Georgia law:
Under these circumstances, it is not disputed that the defendant took the life of another human being. Here, the action may have occurred in the heat of passion. The defendant may not have been able to think and process the circumstances, such that they would have formed an intent to kill.
Here, the defendant is alleged to have acted in a negligent or reckless way that caused the death of another. For example, if a weapon was accidentally discharged and killed someone else. An Atlanta manslaughter lawyer can review how prosecutors are classifying the conduct and whether the facts truly support the charge.
Even if there was no intent to kill, a defendant is still facing very serious charges. They must come up with defenses that show their actions did not meet the required elements of the alleged crime.
Under state law, penalties for manslaughter depend on whether the offense is classified as voluntary or involuntary, with each carrying different sentencing ranges. Voluntary manslaughter occurs when a person causes the death of another under circumstances that would otherwise be murder, but acted in the heat of passion resulting from serious provocation. This offense is a felony punishable by 1 to 20 years in prison.
Involuntary manslaughter applies when a death results from reckless or negligent conduct rather than intent to kill. First-degree involuntary manslaughter is a felony and carries a sentence of 1 to 10 years in prison when the death is caused by an unlawful act other than a felony. Second-degree involuntary manslaughter is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail when the death is caused by a lawful act performed in a reckless manner.
Facing a manslaughter charge is serious and can have life-altering consequences, including lengthy prison sentences and a permanent criminal record. A skilled manslaughter lawyer plays a critical role in protecting your rights and building a strong defense from the earliest stages of the case. Your Atlanta manslaughter attorney will thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident, review police reports, examine evidence, and identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
A manslaughter lawyer can challenge improper charges, argue for reduced offenses, or seek dismissal when evidence is insufficient. They may present defenses such as self-defense, lack of intent, accident, or heat of passion, depending on the facts. An experienced attorney also handles negotiations with prosecutors, often working to reduce charges or secure more favorable plea agreements.
If the case proceeds to trial, your lawyer will advocate aggressively on your behalf, present mitigating evidence, and fight for the best possible outcome. Having knowledgeable legal representation ensures your rights are protected at every stage of the criminal process.
A manslaughter charge in Atlanta puts your freedom, reputation, and future at risk. You need experienced legal representation as soon as possible. An Atlanta manslaughter lawyer at Rafus Law will protect your rights, investigate the evidence, and develop a strong defense tailored to your case. Do not face prosecutors alone or risk avoidable penalties because you did not get prompt legal help.
Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation and take the first step toward defending yourself and securing the best possible outcome.
