Manslaughter Versus Murder: What You Need to Know

There are many different types of serious crimes that you may potentially face and many people are confused about the distinction between manslaughter and murder. Manslaughter refers to an illegal killing that doesn’t involve forethought. Forethought refers to the intent to seriously kill or harm or a reckless disregard for life. If there is no forethought about carrying out such an act, manslaughter carries less moral blame than second or first-degree murder.

The two primary variations of manslaughter include involuntary manslaughter and voluntary manslaughter. Unintentional homicide is known as involuntary manslaughter or an unintentional killing through the commission of a crime other than a felony.

Voluntary manslaughter, however, occurs when a person kills in the heat of passion and is strongly provoked to carry out such an action. The legal definition of murder includes a person who committed with “malice aforethought” and illegally kills someone else. This distinction of aforethought is crucial to the development of the prosecution’s case to pursue manslaughter or murder charges.

Even within the context of those who kill with forethought, the law regards some situations as more dangerous and worthy of moral blame than others. First-degree murder would apply to the specific defendants. In a first-degree murder case, the killing occurs during the course of a dangerous felony and is premeditated and deliberate. If you have been accused of any of these crimes, it is in your best interests to schedule a consultation directly with an experienced criminal defense attorney. Doing so maybe the only way to avoid the major consequences of a conviction.

Murder, Homicide, & Manslaughter Defense Lawyer Serving Atlantic, Ocean, & Cape May County

Do you need help defending yourself when you’ve been accused of manslaughter or murder in Cape May? Schedule a time to chat with the Law Offices of John W. Tumelty at 609-390-4600 or via our online contact form to get started today.

The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney/client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.