A manslaughter arrest or even a manslaughter accusation in Ohio could be a life-altering event. It’s important to understand that manslaughter, while still a serious charge, differs from murder as it often involves unintentional deaths under complex circumstances.
If you or someone you love dearly is in this situation, you’re likely overwhelmed by fear and uncertainty, and the legal terms can be confusing.
The Ohio-based attorneys at Hiltner Trial Lawyers understand these legal distinctions and will fight diligently to protect your rights and achieve a positive outcome for your case.
Before building your defense, here is some key information you need to know about manslaughter charges in Ohio.
What Is Voluntary Manslaughter in Ohio?
The primary difference between voluntary manslaughter and murder lies in the killer’s mental state.
Murder that’s due for murder defense involves premeditated intent to kill, while voluntary manslaughter results from an impulsive act committed in the heat of the moment.
Ohio Voluntary Manslaughter Sentencing Procedures
Sentencing for voluntary manslaughter convictions depends on the specific rules of the jurisdiction where your case is tried.
Generally, a sentencing hearing will be held, allowing both the prosecution and the defense to present factors that would either increase (aggravating factors) or decrease (mitigating factors) the severity of the sentence.
After careful consideration, the judge will determine and announce the appropriate sentence for the case.
What Are the Penalties for Voluntary Manslaughter in Ohio?
In Ohio, voluntary manslaughter is a first-degree felony and could follow charges under felony murder rule. These convictions carry severe penalties outlined in the Ohio Revised Code § 2929.14, including:
- Prison sentences range from three to 11 years
- Fines of up to $20,000
Voluntary manslaughter sentences vary depending on the circumstances of your case and the jurisdiction in which your case is tried. Most convictions will result in a mandatory prison sentence.
Under federal law, penalties for voluntary manslaughter charges can include up to 15 years in prison.
Multiple factors can influence the exact sentence. These could include the following:
- Criminal history
- Details of the crime
- Your presiding judge
What Are Your Potential Defenses Against Voluntary Manslaughter Charges in Ohio?
A skilled Ohio-based manslaughter defense attorney can employ several defense strategies for fighting manslaughter charges in Ohio. Some common options include:
- Innocence: Your lawyer will fight to prove you did not commit the crime, highlighting weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and raising reasonable doubt.
- Self-Defense: To succeed with self-defense as your defense response, your attorney must convince the court that using deadly force was necessary to protect your life.
- Insanity: This defense argues that you did not understand the nature of your actions or could not distinguish right from wrong due to mental illness.
Committed to Your Defense - Contact Hiltner Trial Lawyers Today!
Max Hiltner, an Ohio defense attorney at Hiltner Trial Lawyer, has a proven track record in complex legal situations.
Our experience, dedication, and focus on understanding Ohio law allow us to provide strong representation. We will:
- Conduct a thorough investigation of your case
- Work diligently toward your release from jail
- Explain your legal options and provide clear advice
- Develop a defense strategy tailored to your situation
- Protect your constitutional rights
- Address all your questions and concerns
- Aggressively negotiate with the prosecution, potentially leading to a plea bargain
- Represent you with determination in court
- Get the legal help you need
For murder, involuntary manslaughter, or voluntary manslaughter accusations and charges in Ohio, we are here to prioritize your case.
Call 330-475-3164 for a free consultation! We will live your case with you and help you navigate this challenging legal situation.
Information references/sources:
- What is manslaughter in Ohio – https://www.lawinfo.com/resources/criminal-defense/voluntary-manslaughter/voluntary-manslaughter-sentencing-penalties.html
- Difference – https://www.findlaw.com/state/ohio-law/ohio-voluntary-manslaughter-laws.html
- Ohio Revised Code § 2903.03 – https://codes.ohio.gov/orc/2903.03
- Ohio Revised Code § 2929.14 – https://codes.ohio.gov/orc/2929.14
- Penalties for manslaughter – https://www.lawinfo.com/resources/criminal-defense/voluntary-manslaughter/voluntary-manslaughter-sentencing-penalties.html
- Hiltner Trial Lawyers – https://hiltnertriallawyers.com/about-hiltner-trial-lawyers/
- Statute of Limitations for Murder in Ohio – https://hiltnertriallawyers.com/is-there-a-statute-of-limitations-for-murder-in-ohio/
- The Primary Difference Between Voluntary Manslaughter and Murder – https://hiltnertriallawyers.com/murder-voluntary-manslaughter-and-involuntary-manslaughter-in-ohio/
- Murder Defense – https://hiltnertriallawyers.com/practice-areas/murder-defense-attorney/
- First-degree Felony – https://hiltnertriallawyers.com/felony-and-aggravated-assault-in-ohio/
- Felony Murder Rule – https://hiltnertriallawyers.com/does-ohio-have-a-felony-murder-rule/
- Manslaughter Defense Attorney – https://hiltnertriallawyers.com/practice-areas/manslaughter-defense-attorney/
- Self-defense as your Defense Response – https://hiltnertriallawyers.com/what-counts-as-self-defense-in-ohio/
- Max Hiltner, an Ohio defense attorney – https://hiltnertriallawyers.com/about-hiltner-trial-lawyers/max-hiltner/
- Free Consultation – https://hiltnertriallawyers.com/contact/
- Proven Track Record – https://hiltnertriallawyers.com/testimonials-results/
