Many assume that all homicide offenses, regardless of the circumstances, are viewed the same under the eyes of the law. However, this is far from the truth. In reality, you’ll find that manslaughter charges, those still considered homicide, are generally less severe than murder charges. As such, if you’re unsure what the difference between these offenses is, you’ll want to keep reading. The following blog covers what you must know if you are facing a criminal offense, as well as the importance of discussing your legal options with a Cobb County violent crimes lawyer.
What Warrants Manslaughter Charges, and How Does it Differ From Murder?
While both manslaughter and murder fall under the general crime of homicide, these are two very different charges. Generally, the biggest difference between these charges is intent. To be convicted of a murder charge, it must be shown that you premeditated the murder and intended to take a life. Manslaughter, on the other hand, is often a result of negligence. As such, this is considered an unlawful killing but lacks the intent to be deemed murder.
You should note that there are two different forms of manslaughter that you can face in Georgia. The first is voluntary manslaughter, which is often the result of a “crime of passion,” like finding your spouse in bed with another person. This is different from murder, as you may not have intended to kill the person until you became overwhelmed with emotion.
The other type of manslaughter is involuntary, which is generally an umbrella term to describe all other unlawful killings that do not have the element of premeditation or intention. Typically, this is the result of a DUI accident that results in the death of another person or a doctor administering an incorrect dosage while intoxicated.
What Penalties Can I Face for This Offense in Georgia?
If you are facing a manslaughter offense in Georgia, it’s important to understand the penalties you can face if you’re convicted. First and foremost, voluntary manslaughter is a felony offense in Georgia, which means you can face a minimum of one year but up to twenty if you are convicted.
Involuntary manslaughter can be charged as either a felony or a misdemeanor offense, depending on the circumstances of the crime. For example, if you commit an unlawful act that is not a felony and that leads to the death of someone, you will be charged with a felony. However, if the death is the result of a lawful act, you can face a misdemeanor instead.
If you are facing a manslaughter charge, it’s imperative to understand the importance of working with an experienced attorney to fight for the best possible outcome for your circumstances. At the Miller Law Practice, our dedicated legal team understands how difficult these matters can be, which is why we are dedicated to exploring all avenues to help you fight these charges. Manslaughter is not something that should be taken lightly, and our team is here to fight for you. Contact us today to learn more.