Serious Charges Require an Experienced Annapolis Manslaughter Defense Attorney
Aggressively advocating for manslaughter defendants in Maryland
The serious nature of a manslaughter charge requires an aggressive defense. A conviction can result in the loss of your livelihood, problems for your family, and significant prison time. Though manslaughter is a lesser charge than murder, you still need a lawyer who knows how to tackle complex cases, if you want to keep your freedom.
My name is Gill Andrew Cochran. As a skilled Annapolis manslaughter defense attorney, I know what is at stake and diligently fight for best interests. When your freedom is at stake, trust Drew Cochran, Attorney at Law to advocate for you.
Understanding voluntary and involuntary manslaughter
Under Maryland law, there are two separate classifications of manslaughter charges based on the circumstances surrounding the death:
- Voluntary manslaughter. The state defines this offense as an intentional killing that was done without the malice that is required for a murder conviction. It is often called a “heat of passion” killing because there is generally some provocation involved and not enough time to calm down. For example, let’s say an individual walks in on her spouse engaging in sexual contact with someone else. In an instant fit of rage, she pulls out a gun and shoots him. She may receive a voluntary manslaughter charge instead of a murder charge.
- Involuntary manslaughter. This is an unintentional killing that results from an act of recklessness or negligence. It is sometimes called an “accidental killing” because the defendant had no intention of killing the victim. The death accidentally occurred do to actions of the defendant. Causing an automobile accident where someone was killed could result in involuntary manslaughter charges.
A knowledgeable Annapolis manslaughter defense attorney looks at the specific details of your case and works with you to determine the best course of action.
Potential penalties of a manslaughter conviction
A manslaughter conviction, whether voluntary or involuntary, can result in a maximum punishment of up to 10 years in prison. This is a significant amount of time, and it exemplifies the value of a comprehensive defense. Depending on the circumstances surrounding the death, an experienced Maryland manslaughter lawyer may assert that the voluntary manslaughter occurred in self-defense or defense of others. If a stranger grabs your child and you fatally stab him with a knife to stop the abduction, a defense of others strategy may successfully counter a voluntary manslaughter charge.
An involuntary manslaughter defense may include challenges to the accusation of negligence or recklessness. For example, an individual is accused of not stopping her car in time, resulting in the death of a pedestrian. Upon investigation, it is discovered that she did apply her brakes in an adequate amount of time, but they failed due to a manufacturing defect. This information could negate the recklessness and negligence elements of the crime.
Trust your case to an Annapolis manslaughter defense attorney
At Drew Cochran, Attorney at Law, I pride myself on providing a comprehensive defense to every client. My office has represented clients in Maryland for more than 18 years. In that time, I have earned a reputation for integrity and success. Let me put my experience to work for you. If you are facing manslaughter charges, call me at 410-271-1892 or complete my contact form to schedule a consultation.
And remember: Keep Calm – and Call Drew.
