Birmingham Manslaughter Defense Lawyers

Because it involves the loss of life, manslaughter is one of the most severely prosecuted violent crimes in Alabama. As such, it carries heavy penalties and life-altering repercussions. From extended prison sentences to the social stigma of a felony conviction, your freedom and future are at high risk when accused of this offense.

Your priority in such a grave matter should be to enlist the services of a reputable and trusted criminal defense lawyer. You will need an attorney who knows how to investigate every aspect of your case in search of evidence and information that can benefit you and uncover weaknesses in the prosecution’s assertions.

At Revill Law Firm, you can turn to an award-winning Alabama defender who understands the high stakes involved and how to devise a strategy to fight back. Our firm is dedicated to protecting your rights, ensuring you are treated fairly, aggressively fighting for your best interests, and providing unwavering support throughout the legal process.

Request a free case review with a Birmingham manslaughter defense attorney. You can reach us online or by calling (205) 928-6544.

What Is Manslaughter in Alabama?

Manslaughter in Alabama is defined under Alabama Code 1975, § 13A-6-3. The code divides manslaughter into two categories based on the circumstances of the act.

Reckless Manslaughter

Under Ala. Code 1975, § 13A-6-3(a)(1), manslaughter occurs when a person recklessly causes the death of another person. This implies that the individual involved did not intend to cause death but acted in a manner that was so careless or reckless that it resulted in someone's death.

This could include actions such as reckless driving that results in a fatal accident. The key element here is the state of mind of the accused at the time of the act: They must have been aware (or should have been aware) of a serious risk of causing death but disregarded that risk.

Provocation Manslaughter

On the other hand, Ala. Code 1975, § 13A-6-3(a)(2) defines manslaughter as occurring when a person causes the death of another person under circumstances that would constitute murder, except that the person causes the death due to a sudden heat of passion caused by provocation.

This provocation must be such that it could cause a reasonable person to act rashly and without reflection. Additionally, there must not have been a reasonable amount of time for the person to cool down between the provocation and the killing.

This typically covers situations where an individual kills another in the heat of the moment after being provoked. For example, if someone finds their spouse in bed with another person and kills one or both of them in immediate shock and anger, this might be considered manslaughter under this section.

Both reckless and provocation manslaughter are considered Class B felonies in Alabama and carry severe penalties, including a prison term of 2 to 20 years and substantial fines.

Vehicular Manslaughter

Vehicular manslaughter, also known as vehicular homicide, is a crime that involves causing the death of another person due to a driver’s unlawful or negligent operation of a motor vehicle.

It falls under the broader statutes for reckless manslaughter and criminally negligent homicide. In Alabama, criminal negligence occurs when you fail to perceive a substantial and unjustifiable risk of causing injury or death. Criminally negligent homicide is a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to a year in jail and a maximum of $6,000 in fines.

Work with a Diligent & Respected Team at Revill Law Firm

The complexity of manslaughter charges necessitates the assistance of skilled legal representation. Revill Law Firm has a team of experienced lawyers who can help navigate these complexities and provide a robust defense for those accused under either section of Alabama's manslaughter law.

We work aggressively to protect your rights and strive to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

Contact us at (205) 928-6544 for the help you need today.