Hiring a knowledgeable and aggressive manslaughter attorney is essential if you have been arrested for manslaughter in St. Petersburg, Tampa, Bradenton, or Clearwater.
Manslaughter/murder can be committed in three potential ways, including:
Manslaughter by Act: Committing an intentional act that was neither excusable or justified that results in the death of another.
Manslaughter by Procurement: Persuading, inducing, or encouraging another to commit an act that results in the death of another.
Manslaughter by Culpable Negligence: Engaging in negligent conduct that results in the death of another.
Manslaughter by Weapon or Firearm: Although not considered a specific element of manslaughter/murder, if a jury determines a weapon or firearm was used in the act of the manslaughter/murder, the crime will be reclassified as a felony of the first degree.
Manslaughter Penalties
Manslaughter/murder is classified as a second-degree felony and the penalties can include the following:
- Up to 15 years in prison
- Up to 15 years probation
- Up to $10,000 in fines
Manslaughter/murder with a weapon or firearm penalties include:
- Up to 30 years in prison
- Up to 30 years probation
- Up to $10,000 in fines
Manslaughter/Murder Defenses
Self-Defense is the justifiable use of deadly force.
Justifiable Homicide is the killing of another that is lawful if done while resisting an attempt by someone to kill you or commit a felony against you.
Excusable Homicide is the killing of another that is considered excusable and lawful under certain circumstances, including:
- When the killing occurs by accident in the heat of passion, or
- When the killing occurs by accident in doing a lawful act by lawful means with ordinary caution and no unlawful intent, or
- When the killing occurs by accident and results from sudden combat, no use of a dangerous weapon, and no unlawful intent.
Hire an Experienced Manslaughter/Murder Attorney
If you have been charged or believe you are about to be charged, call the team at Clark Hartpence Law immediately. We will help defend you in this situation and best advise you on how to protect your record and safeguard the things that matter most. Call us right away at (855) 680-4911.