If you are convicted of manslaughter, you could face criminal penalties that affect you for the rest of your life. Talk with a manslaughter defense lawyer in Cleveland as soon as possible after your arrest. Your attorney can explain your legal options and the steps you may want to take to protect against a conviction.
The team at HMW Law—Ohio Trial Attorneys has more than 60 years of combined experience. In the aftermath of your arrest, we encourage you to speak with a Cleveland criminal defense lawyer from our team. Our attorney can review your charge and investigate your case. From here, we can begin building your legal defense right away.
Give us the opportunity to review your criminal case. To get started, request a free case evaluation.
Why Hire a Lawyer for Your Criminal Case?
The things you do in the days following your arrest can have long-lasting implications for you and your family. Partner with a manslaughter defense attorney in Cleveland, and your lawyer can guide you through the legal process.
Some of the ways that your lawyer may help you with your case include:
- Sharing FAQs and other resources regarding Ohio laws that may apply to your case
- Performing an investigation and gathering evidence to support their argument
- Filing motions to suppress evidence and handling other legal processes on your behalf
- Looking for weaknesses in the prosecution’s case in the hopes of getting your criminal charge reduced or dismissed
- Engaging in plea bargaining with the prosecution and keeping you updated about any offers that are made
- Representing you in trial and arguing your case in court if necessary
Those facing manslaughter charges should consider what HMW Law—Ohio Trial Attorneys offers. We are a nationally recognized and award–winning law firm committed to our clientele.
Our criminal defense attorneys can explore many legal avenues to help you pursue your desired case outcome. Contact us today for more information.
For a free legal consultation with a manslaughter defense lawyer serving Cleveland, call 216-774-0000
What Will Happen if You Are Convicted of Manslaughter Charges in Cleveland, Ohio?
The penalties that you will receive if you’re convicted of manslaughter charges will vary based on the severity of your offense.
Below are details about three types of manslaughter crimes in Ohio, along with the penalties associated with them.
Voluntary Manslaughter
Per Ohio Revised Code (ORC) 2903.03, a person can be convicted of voluntary manslaughter if the court finds that they knowingly caused someone’s death while under the influence of sudden passion or a fit of rage brought on by serious and reasonable provocation.
This offense is treated as a first-degree felony, and those convicted can receive a prison sentence and fines.
Involuntary Manslaughter
According to ORC 2903.04, involuntary manslaughter refers to causing another person’s death or the unlawful termination of a pregnancy as the result of committing or attempting to commit a misdemeanor or a felony.
The penalties that come with a conviction may depend on whether the underlying offense was a misdemeanor or a felony, and they can include prison time and fines.
Vehicular Manslaughter
Defined by ORC 2903.06, vehicular manslaughter is an offense in which someone causes another person’s death while committing a minor traffic infraction. It is a second-degree misdemeanor, with penalties that can include a jail sentence, fines, probation, and a driver’s license suspension. With aggravated vehicular homicide, felony-level penalties may apply.
You may be worried about what to do after being arrested in Ohio for any of these offenses. Things may appear bleak, but remember, you can work with a criminal defense attorney who will prioritize your legal matters.
Your lawyer can advise you on what to do after your arrest and develop a legal strategy specific to the circumstances of your case.
Cleveland Manslaughter Defense Lawyer Near Me 216-774-0000
Manslaughter Defense Strategies in Cleveland You Need to Know About
As you consider how to contest your criminal charges, it pays to have a Cleveland manslaughter defense attorney who values advocacy on your side.
Your criminal defense attorney may utilize any of the following legal defenses to dispute the prosecution’s argument:
- Self-defense
- Accident
- Lack of intent
- Provocation
- Mistaken identity
- Violation of your constitutional rights, which may lead the court to suppress evidence that the prosecution had intended to use against you
In some criminal cases, a plea deal is negotiated in which the defendant accepts a lesser charge than the one that they initially faced. Your attorney can explain how the plea bargain process works in Ohio criminal cases.
If no plea deal is reached in your case, your attorney will be ready to present your case in court.
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Our Manslaughter Defense Lawyers in Cleveland Provide Personalized and Focused Legal Representation
Prosecutors will work to build a case against those who have been arrested for any form of manslaughter. Thankfully, manslaughter defense attorneys in Cleveland are available.
Your criminal defense lawyer will prioritize your litigation and explore many legal avenues to help get your criminal charges lowered or dismissed.
HMW Law—Ohio Trial Attorneys has a legal defense team in place that has in-depth knowledge of Ohio’s criminal justice system. On top of that, our Cleveland criminal defense attorney can address your legal concerns and questions and help you make informed decisions at each stage of your litigation.
In your criminal case, our attorneys are prepared to challenge the prosecution and fight to protect your freedom, reputation, and future. To find out more, schedule a free case evaluation.
Call or text 216-774-0000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
