If you or a loved one has been charged with manslaughter, there are common defense strategies against manslaughter charges. Your attorney may use these strategies to put together a strong case to protect your rights. Choosing a legal team with extensive experience representing manslaughter cases will give you the best chance for an optimal outcome.
Manslaughter charges can be incredibly serious, and the consequences are life-altering. So if you find yourself facing manslaughter charges, it’s essential to act quickly to put together an effective defense strategy.
One of the most important things to understand about manslaughter charges is that they can take many forms. Some examples of manslaughter charges include involuntary manslaughter, voluntary manslaughter, and vehicular manslaughter. Each of these charges has unique legal requirements. And, the defense strategies that are effective against one type of manslaughter charge may not be effective against another.
Let’s take a closer look at the defense strategies a qualified attorney may use in your case:
Arguing the Death Was Not a Result of Your Actions
One potential defense strategy against manslaughter charges is to argue that the cause of death was unrelated to your actions. This defense is most effective in cases where there is a dispute about the cause of death. If your attorney can prove the victim had a pre-existing medical condition that may have contributed to their death, this could help your case.
Another potential defense is to argue that the death was the result of the victim’s actions or negligence. For example, if the victim was engaging in risky behavior or was under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of their death, this could be a viable defense strategy.
Claiming Self-Defense
Claiming self-defense is most effective in cases where the defendant can show they were acting in self-defense and that the death was an unintended consequence of their actions. For example, if the defendant was being attacked and acted in self-defense by striking the victim, but the victim subsequently died due to the blow, this could be used as a defense.
Proving the Death Was an Accident
Claiming accidental death is most effective in cases where the defendant did not intend to cause harm to the victim and did not engage in any reckless or negligent behavior. For example, if the defendant was driving and accidentally hit a pedestrian who unexpectedly stepped into the road, this could be used as a defense.
Get Skilled Defense for Manslaughter Cases at Walker & Taylor, PLLC
Working with an experienced criminal defense attorney is crucial to building a solid case against manslaughter charges. At Walker & Taylor, PLLC, you’ll find a trusted attorney who can assess the details of your case, gather evidence, question witnesses, and determine the most suitable defense strategy for your unique situation. Knowing you have an attorney with a track record of success on your side will bring you peace of mind. And this peace brings confidence as you navigate the complexities of the legal system.
As the Houston area’s top criminal defense legal team, Walker & Taylor, PLLC, has more than 100+ years of experience and a five-star rating from clients. Count on us to work diligently to protect your rights and fight for your freedom. Schedule a free case evaluation with Walker & Taylor, PLLC, to explore the top defense strategies for manslaughter cases.