Manslaughter is the unlawful killing of a person either intentionally or unintentionally. Being accused of taking someone’s life carries a social stigma that can negatively impact your relationships, your job, and overall livelihood. As soon as you become a suspect in a manslaughter case or are arrested, you need experienced criminal defense attorneys looking out for you. New Mexico Legal Group’s top priority is protecting the rights and welfare of people accused of criminal offenses statewide. We strongly believe in asserting our clients’ rights and combating the charges against them.
Involuntary Manslaughter
Involuntary manslaughter is the unintentional killing of a person while committing a misdemeanor criminal offense. Involuntary manslaughter can also occur if a person is engaging in a lawful act but unintentionally kills someone by being negligent or not exercising due care. Involuntary manslaughter is classified as a fourth-degree felony with sentencing up to 18 months in prison and probation.
Voluntary Manslaughter
Voluntary manslaughter is unlawfully killing someone in the heat of passion or during a quarrel. It is not an act of premeditation. Voluntary manslaughter involves the intent to kill or the intent to cause serious bodily harm. Voluntary manslaughter is a third-degree felony. Criminal punishment for a conviction includes up to 3 years in prison and probation.
Manslaughter Defenses
As soon as we start working on a case, we evaluate the facts and figure out which defenses are applicable. The prosecutors have the burden of proof in the case so we are able to use different legal tactics to instill the requisite reasonable doubt needed to receive a not guilty verdict from the jury. We can raise the issue of reasonable doubt by ruling out our client as the person who committed the crime. If the killing occurred as an act of self-defense, that can also be used as a way to get a favorable verdict.
