Manslaughter Defense Lawyer in Portland, Maine
Manslaughter is a very serious offense because it involves one person taking the life of another. Maine Law Title 17-A, §203 states that a person is guilty of manslaughter if they recklessly cause the death of another person. This is a Class A crime, which makes it a felony. Maine is unlike other states in its manslaughter statute in that it doesn’t classify the offense as voluntary manslaughter or involuntary manslaughter. Instead, there is one manslaughter statute to cover all manslaughter offenses.
At the Law Office of Richard Berne, manslaughter cases are handled with a great deal of care. No details are left unrealized so that a strong defense can be built with the purpose of securing the best result. With a knowledgeable Portland manslaughter defense lawyer providing aggressive representation, the best outcome is fought for every step of the way.
Aggressive Defense Against Manslaughter Charges
If convicted of manslaughter, the penalty is punishable by up to 30 years in prison and $50,000 in fines for a Class A crime. If manslaughter is classified as a Class C felony, the prison term is up to five years with a fine of up to $5,000. The exact charge depends on the circumstances surrounding the alleged offense.
What separates a manslaughter charge from a murder charge, however, is the presence of malice. Malice Is usually defined as the intent to cause serious bodily harm. Manslaughter is unlawful killing without malice. However, there are times when killing with malice can be reduced to manslaughter because of other mitigating circumstances.
Regardless of the charge, having an experienced criminal defense lawyer protecting your rights and fighting for your future can make a significant outcome on the outcome of the case.
Fighting For The Best Outcome
Sometimes, manslaughter is the result of the “heat of passion” and can sometimes be reduced from murder to manslaughter. If the killing was committed because of extreme fear or anger due to provocation, then manslaughter may be the charge. Making sure these details are known is very important to the strength of the defense. It’s imperative that every detail is used in the case so that the truth can be realized. The truth is an important element of achieving the proper outcome.
Contact A Portland Manslaughter Defense Attorney
If you or a loved one has been accused of manslaughter, it’s imperative to seek the representation of a competent and aggressive attorney as soon as possible so work can immediately begin on your case. To learn more about your rights, options, and how Richard Berne can help you, call 207-871-7770 and request a free consultation.