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Facing a criminal charge of manslaughter is tremendously daunting and frightening for anyone. Manslaughter is a severe crime that comes with harsh punishments, such as hefty fines and life imprisonment. That’s why having a seasoned manslaughter defense attorney is crucial to your defense strategy.
If you or a loved one has been charged with manslaughter, discuss your case with the Harrisburg, PA, manslaughter defense attorney at Mette, Attorneys at Law, so we can begin working on your defense right away.
What to Know About Manslaughter Charges in Pennsylvania
A person has committed criminal homicide if their deliberate, negligent, reckless, or intentional actions resulted in another person’s death. In Pennsylvania, homicide is classified as involuntary manslaughter, voluntary manslaughter, or murder.
Voluntary Manslaughter
A charge for voluntary manslaughter is based on unreasonable belief or intense passion. A manslaughter charge based on intense passion refers to a homicide that occurs suddenly because the defendant was provoked, and that provocation negatively affected their actions and judgment. Take note that the provocation must be something that would cause any reasonable individual to act emotionally or passionately.
However, the defendant can be charged with murder instead of voluntary manslaughter if it can be proven that they had sufficient time to calm down or cool off after being provoked and killing the other person. Unreasonable belief can likewise be the basis for a manslaughter charge.
In this scenario, the defendant must have erroneously believed that using deadly force or killing the other person was the only way to protect themself from harm. However, if it can be proven that the defendant heightened or created the dangerous situation, they could be charged with murder. The potential penalties for a manslaughter conviction, which is a first-degree felony, are a fine of not more than $25,000 and imprisonment of up to 20 years.
It’s also crucial to note that if the defendant’s current voluntary manslaughter conviction is their third violent offense, the minimum prison sentence is 25 years. The prosecution can also push for life in prison without the possibility of parole.
Involuntary Manslaughter
You can be charged with involuntary manslaughter if you acted in a grossly negligent or reckless manner and your actions, whether they were legal or illegal, directly resulted in the other person’s death. A conviction for involuntary manslaughter is usually a first-degree misdemeanor and is punishable by a fine not exceeding $10,000 and five years in prison.
However, if the victim is below 12 and is in the defendant’s control or custody, the charge is a second-degree felony. Potential penalties include a fine of up to $25,000 and imprisonment for up to 10 years.
Speak to a Seasoned Defense Lawyer Today
Whether you are facing a charge of involuntary or voluntary manslaughter, your freedom is at stake. With our manslaughter defense lawyers fighting for you, we will achieve the best possible outcome no matter the circumstances surrounding your case. Dial (717) 232-5000 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation with our manslaughter defense attorneys in Harrisburg, PA.