Not all homicide cases are the result of an intentional act of violence. For instance, the unintentional killing of another person can result in manslaughter charges. While manslaughter is a type of homicide offense, it does not carry the same penalties as a murder charge.
However, a conviction for manslaughter can result in a lengthy prison sentence and completely change your life. For this reason, it is imperative to work with an experienced homicide defense attorney to help you fight your charges. An aggressive and dedicated Bellevue manslaughter lawyer from Berry Law can help you fight the prosecution’s allegations against you.
Manslaughter Defined by State Law
According to Nebraska Revised Statutes §28-305, manslaughter is an unintentional act of homicide. There are two methods in which a prosecutor can prove a manslaughter case in our area. The first type of manslaughter occurs when someone kills another person without malice during a sudden quarrel. In some jurisdictions, this crime is commonly referred to as voluntary manslaughter.
The presence of a sudden quarrel (i.e. provocation resulting from a sudden happening) distinguishes manslaughter charges from murder. Manslaughter charges typically apply in situations where the accused did not have the time or opportunity to form the deliberation necessary for murder charges.
The second type of manslaughter occurs when an individual unintentionally causes the death of another person during the commission of another crime. In some areas, this offense is known as involuntary manslaughter. This charge only applies when an alleged killing occurs without intent or provocation.
While this offense could involve any unlawful act, involuntary manslaughter which occurs behind the wheel of a car typically results in charge of motor vehicle homicide. A skilled defense attorney at Berry Law can help you understand each type of manslaughter charge and which type you are facing in your case.
Penalties for a Manslaughter Conviction
The penalties for a manslaughter conviction are the same regardless of the type of manslaughter you are charged with. In either case, manslaughter is treated as a Class IIA felony and carries a maximum prison term of 20 years upon conviction. Unlike more serious homicide charges, there is no minimum jail time. An experienced Bellevue lawyer at Berry Law can give you the legal firepower you need to effectively fight your manslaughter charges.
The criminal penalties associated with a conviction for manslaughter are not the only consequences a person can face. A person convicted of manslaughter could face civil consequences such as:
- Loss of the right to vote
- Loss of the right to own firearms
- Loss of professional licenses
- Difficulty finding employment
- Difficulty obtaining housing
Contact a Bellevue Manslaughter Attorney Right Away
A conviction for manslaughter can have a devastating impact on your life. Let one of Berry Law’s knowledgeable legal representatives play an active role in your defense to maximize your chances of success.
A Bellevue manslaughter lawyer at Berry Law can strengthen your case and ensure your rights are protected from start to finish. Call Berry Law now to schedule a confidential consultation with a professional.