Bristol County Manslaughter Defense Attorneys

Defending Against Manslaughter Charges in Massachusetts & Rhode Island

Manslaughter is only exceeded in its degree of seriousness by charges of first-degree or second-degree murder. Manslaughter also involves the killing of another person but, unlike murder, it does not involve premeditation or what is known as “malice aforethought.” Because it lacks planning and the intent to kill, manslaughter is a lesser charge with lesser penalties. This does not make it any less serious to anyone accused of such a charge. A manslaughter conviction can lead to extended prison time, fines, probation, loss of your driver’s license, and other consequences depending on the circumstances.

At the Law Office of Frank D. Camera and Associates, P.C., our Bristol County manslaughter defense lawyer has extensive experience handling serious criminal charges like manslaughter. Our firm has earned a stellar reputation in the public and legal communities for its professionalism, dedication to clients, and outstanding record of case results. Those are the kinds of qualifications you need when facing something as serious as manslaughter. We advise you to take advantage of our skilled criminal defense attorney’s proven track record and what it represents in terms of knowledge, skills, and resources if you are facing manslaughter charges.

Phone the Law Office of Frank D. Camera and Associates, P.C. at (877) 444-1098 to find out how we can defend you against criminal charges.

Different Types of Manslaughter

Under Massachusetts law, manslaughter is divided into two categories - involuntary and voluntary. Involuntary manslaughter occurs when a person is killed without intent. Voluntary manslaughter happens when a person is killed after the offender was reasonably provoked.

Involuntary Manslaughter

An example of involuntary manslaughter would be where you caused another’s death in a traffic accident. In order to be found guilty of involuntary manslaughter, it must be proven that you were driving the car but did not intend to cause a death. However, in an involuntary manslaughter charge, it generally means that your actions were wanton or reckless.

As in the case of the traffic accident, if you were driving while impaired from alcohol and/or drugs, that would be considered reckless or wanton as a prudent person would not have done the same thing.

In Massachusetts, vehicular manslaughter can result in a minimum of 30 days up to two and one-half years in jail along with a $3,000 fine. However, if your vehicular manslaughter charges are based on drunk driving, the penalties will be more serious.