Nashville Manslaughter Lawyers

Fighting for the Fair – but Fair Treatment of Those Charged with Manslaughter

Manslaughter is a serious criminal charge that can result in severe penalties, including prison time and steep fines. If you or someone you know is facing a charge of manslaughter, you need an aggressive and experienced criminal defense attorney to help you.

At May & McKinney, PLLC, we have handled countless criminal cases and have a proven track record of success. Our Nashville manslaughter attorneys have a thorough understanding of the criminal justice system and will work relentlessly on your behalf.

Request a consultation by calling (615) 265-6383 today to learn more about your legal options and to get started on building a strong defense for your criminal case. Our Nashville manslaughter attorneys can help you!

What Is Manslaughter in Tennessee?

Manslaughter is a felony murder charge that involves the killing of another person without malice. The difference between murder and manslaughter lies in the intent of the defendant. If the defendant did not intend to kill the victim, but acted recklessly, then the defendant can be charged with manslaughter.

Manslaughter charges can be separated into two categories:

• Voluntary manslaughter — This type of manslaughter is charged when the defendant acted with malice but without premeditation. The defendant may have acted out of the heat of passion, such as when the defendant killed someone after being provoked.
• Involuntary manslaughter — This type of manslaughter occurs when the defendant acts recklessly, without intending to kill the victim. For example, if the defendant left a child unattended with a loaded gun, the defendant could be charged with involuntary manslaughter if the child accidentally shot someone with the gun.

In Tennessee, manslaughter is a felony and punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a fine.

What Is the Difference Between Voluntary and Involuntary Manslaughter?

Both voluntary and involuntary manslaughter are charged when the defendant acted without malice, but recklessly. The difference between the two types of manslaughter is the defendant's intent. Voluntary manslaughter is charged when the defendant acted with malice but without premeditation. The defendant may have acted out of the heat of passion, such as when the defendant killed someone after being provoked.

Involuntary manslaughter occurs when the defendant acts recklessly, without intending to kill the victim. For example, if the defendant left a child unattended with a loaded gun, the defendant could be charged with involuntary manslaughter if the child accidentally shot someone with the gun.

How Can I Fight Manslaughter Charges?

Because manslaughter is a felony charge, the defendant's criminal history will be taken into account when determining a sentence. The defendant's criminal history will be used to determine the defendant's risk level, and they may face harsher penalties if the defendant has prior convictions.

Because of the serious penalties that are involved with a manslaughter conviction, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney. Our Nashville manslaughter attorneys at May & McKinney, PLLC have handled criminal cases and have a thorough understanding of the criminal justice system. We will work relentlessly on your behalf and will fight to get your charges reduced or dropped.