Murder: the unlawful killing of another person, resulting from premeditation/malice
Voluntary Manslaughter: The unlawful killing of another person, where the defendant has intent to kill, but is considered less liable than a murder defendant due to mitigating circumstances such as altered state-of-mind (heat-of-passion crime due to fright, desperation, or anger)
Involuntary Manslaughter: the unlawful killing of another person, where the defendant lacks intent to kill but did so as a result of reckless or criminal negligence (also called “criminally negligent homicide”)
Did you know that defenses based on provocation, the heat of passion, self-defense, diminished capacity, or diminished responsibility can help defendants avoid the most severe sentences? Factors that may play a part in a murder case may include the defendant’s prior convictions, probation/parole history, aggravating circumstances, personality/character, and state of mind at the time of the crime.
Was murder committed for the purpose of self-defense? Is the prosecution lacking sufficient proof of involvement or guilt? Does the defendant have an ironclad alibi? Could mental status have played a role in the crime (insanity defense)?
A skilled murder/manslaughter legal team can ask the right questions — questions that may help build a strong defense against the charges you’re facing. If you or a loved one has been accused of murder or manslaughter, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney. The Shelnutt & Varner Law Firm will lead an in-depth investigation, looking for important details that may have been missed by law enforcement.
Experience that Counts
Why should you trust your fate to our firm? Attorney James Shelnutt spent nine years as an officer of the law and has been present at countless crime scenes. He knows how the criminal investigation process works, and he knows where to look for answers that may help his clients. The attorneys at The Shelnutt & Varner Law Firm also have years of experience prosecuting cases and know what it is like to think like the prosecuting attorneys in your case to better anticipate what necessary steps are to get you the best results in your case.
The team at the Shelnutt & Varner Law Firm will put the pieces of the puzzle together in order to represent you with confidence. Our goal is to help you avoid severe forms of punishment (incarceration, death penalty, fines) by working for a favorable outcome. From dismissal to alternative forms of punishment, we have your best interests in mind.
If you or a loved one is facing manslaughter or murder charges, let our criminal defense team inform you of your rights and go to work building a defense. Please contact The Shelnutt & Varner Law Firm online or call 256-547-4988 for experienced legal advice. Your first consultation at our offices is completely free of charge.