Springfield Manslaughter Lawyer

Defending Clients Facing Manslaughter Charges in Missouri 

At Cole & Martin Attorneys at Law, we are dedicated to providing experienced legal representation for individuals facing legal challenges, including cases involving manslaughter. If you're in Missouri and need a trusted manslaughter lawyer, you've come to the right place. Manslaughter charges are serious, and having the proper representation can make all the difference in the outcome of your case.

Call Cole & Martin Attorneys at Law today at (417) 213-5441 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our manslaughter attorney in Springfield!

What is Manslaughter?

Manslaughter is a criminal offense in Springfield, Missouri, and throughout the United States. It is distinct from murder and typically involves the unlawful killing of another person without intent. There are two primary types of manslaughter: voluntary manslaughter and involuntary manslaughter.

• Voluntary Manslaughter: This occurs when a person intentionally kills another person but does so in the heat of the moment, often due to sudden provocation or an intense emotional state. Voluntary manslaughter is a lesser charge than murder because it acknowledges that the offender did not plan or premeditate the killing.
• Involuntary Manslaughter: Involuntary manslaughter, on the other hand, occurs when someone unintentionally causes the death of another person through reckless behavior, negligence, or criminal negligence. This can include driving under the influence (DUI) or engaging in dangerous activities that result in someone's death.

What are the Penalties for Manslaughter in Missouri?

Manslaughter penalties in Missouri vary depending on the specific circumstances of the case. It's important to note that the consequences for voluntary and involuntary manslaughter can differ significantly. Here is an overview of the potential penalties for each type of manslaughter:

• Voluntary Manslaughter: In Springfield, Missouri, voluntary manslaughter is considered a Class A felony, one of the most severe criminal offenses. Penalties for voluntary manslaughter may include a prison sentence ranging from 10 to 30 years and substantial fines. Our experienced attorneys will work diligently to build a strong defense strategy to help minimize the potential consequences you face.
• Involuntary Manslaughter: Involuntary manslaughter is usually charged as a Class C felony in Missouri. Penalties for this offense can include a prison sentence of up to seven years and fines. Additionally, if the involuntary manslaughter resulted from criminal negligence or recklessness, the penalties may be even more severe.

Defenses Against Manslaughter Charges

When you're charged with manslaughter, you must have a legal defense to protect your rights and minimize the potential consequences. Our skilled attorneys are well-versed in various defense strategies tailored to your case. Some common defenses against manslaughter charges include:

• Self-Defense: If you can demonstrate that you acted in self-defense or defense of others, it may be a valid defense against manslaughter charges. We will investigate the circumstances leading to the incident to establish a strong self-defense argument.
• Lack of Intent: Involuntary manslaughter hinges on the absence of intent. This could be a viable defense if we can show that your actions were not reckless or negligent but accidental.
• Mistaken Identity: If there are doubts about your involvement in the crime, we will work diligently to prove that you were not the perpetrator.
• Suppression of Evidence: In some cases, evidence may have been obtained unlawfully or improperly. We will scrutinize the evidence against you to identify any violations of your constitutional rights and seek to have that evidence suppressed.
• Alibi: If you can establish that you were in a different location at the time of the incident, we will present an alibi as part of your defense.

At Cole & Martin Attorneys at Law, we understand that every case is unique, and we will tailor our defense strategy to the specific circumstances of your situation. We aim to ensure that you receive a fair trial and vigorously advocate on your behalf to achieve the best possible outcome.