Understanding Manslaughter Charges

The primary difference between murder and manslaughter is the intent of the perpetrator. Murder is a premeditated and intentional homicide, while manslaughter is a killing that is either accidental or committed in the heat of the moment, making it a less serious crime in the eyes of the law, though the consequences of being convicted are severe. If you are being investigated or have been arrested for manslaughter, you must take decisive action to defend against the consequences you face. Come to The Law Office of John M. Cromwell for zealous legal defense from a White Plains criminal attorney with more than 24 years of experience. I am committed to getting results for my clients, and I will work diligently to help you resolve this situation.

How Manslaughter is Charged

You can be convicted of second degree manslaughter when there is evidence that you recklessly caused the death of another person or intentionally caused or aided another person to commit suicide. It is a felony, carrying a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison. Manslaughter in the first degree, punishable by up to 25 years in prison, occurs if your actions which were intended to cause injury resulted in the death of the other person, or if you intended to kill the other person while under the influence of an extreme emotional disturbance which was reasonably justified by the circumstances.

I understand how stressful it can be to face such serious consequences, and I urge you to call me or visit my office as soon as possible for help. I will listen to you as you describe the incident, and anything you tell me is in confidence under the attorney-client relationship. You should avoid speaking with investigators without having me present to advise you, as there is practically nothing you can say to the police which will improve your chances of avoiding a conviction. Their job is to gather evidence against you, and you should not help them in that task by waiving your Constitutional right to remain silent. Let me represent you as the case progresses and fight to clear your name.