Manslaughter charges mean the distinct possibility that the accused individual will lose their freedom and face a significant prison sentence. While the range of outcomes in a criminal case is significant, it is not a given that criminal charges will result in time behind bars or large monetary fines.
Instead, people accused of manslaughter can advocate for themselves by hiring an experienced attorney who focuses on their clients’ needs. This means developing a strategy based on the circumstances of the accused’s case.
What is the Difference Between Involuntary and Voluntary Manslaughter in Ohio?
Ohio law tells us that it is unlawful to knowingly take the life of another person or their unborn child while under the influence of sudden passion or in a sudden fit of rage. Most commonly, a person will be charged with the crime of manslaughter when a person is arguing with someone else, and the accused kills the other person.
Voluntary manslaughter is a serious matter categorized as a first-degree felony.
Involuntary manslaughter is similar to, yet distinct from, voluntary manslaughter in its elements. An involuntary manslaughter charge involves the taking of another person’s life or their unborn child’s life while committing or attempting to commit a felony, misdemeanor, minor misdemeanor, or regulatory offense.
Depending upon how serious the underlying crime is, the involuntary manslaughter charge may be classified differently. For instance, if the underlying crime is a felony, the manslaughter charge will usually be a first-degree felony. On the other hand, when the underlying crime is a misdemeanor, expect the manslaughter charge to be a felony of the third degree.
Voluntary versus Involuntary Manslaughter Conviction Punishments
If found guilty of having committed voluntary manslaughter, a defendant faces between 3 and 11 years in prison and a fine totaling up to $20,000. An involuntary manslaughter conviction has reduced penalties for both the prison sentence and the associated fine. One to five years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000 may result from a guilty finding on involuntary manslaughter charges.
What Sets The Robert Jones Defense Firm Apart From Other Attorneys?
The Robert Jones Defense Firm takes seriously the responsibility of serving its clients who have been accused of having committed involuntary or voluntary manslaughter. With eight years of experience inside courtrooms and negotiating with prosecutors’ offices, no attorney excels more when the chips are down than this Ohio manslaughter defense attorney.
Contact our office today for a free case review. When a complex manslaughter charge threatens to erase your freedoms, count on us to fight for you. By reaching out to us, your decision-making on the case improves, and a strategy geared towards accomplishing your goals develops.