Involuntary Manslaughter Defense Attorney in St. Louis

When someone in Missouri is accused of killing someone through recklessness or negligence, not the actual intent to cause harm, it is categorized as the serious violent crime of involuntary manslaughter. In many situations, this crime occurs due to a car accident, so other states sometimes call it “vehicular manslaughter” instead. No matter the exact circumstances, the charges filed against you when accused of involuntary manslaughter will be a felony of some degree.

If you are convicted of involuntary manslaughter, penalties are likely to include:

• At least three years in prison, up to 10 years
• At least $5,000 in fines and fees, up to $10,000
• Multiyear driver’s license suspension if vehicular related

Get Aggressive Defense - Call (314) 334-3807

Start thinking about how you can protect your rights, freedom, reputation, and finances right now by getting in contact with The Hammer Law Firm, LLC. Our manslaughter defense attorneys in St. Louis have decades of collective experience managing complicated defense cases. We know the finest details in a defense case like yours can make all the difference in the end, so we meticulously pore through all available evidence, case laws, and so forth when crafting your defense.

Get a free case evaluation with our team by filling out an online contact form now.

Different Types of Involuntary Manslaughter Charges

Missouri has two classifications for involuntary manslaughter charges: first-degree and second-degree.

1. Second-Degree Involuntary Manslaughter

2. When the defendant unknowingly acts in a negligent or reckless manner that results in the death of another. For example, someone who has never handled a firearm before accidentally bumps the trigger while inspecting the gun, discharging the weapon, and killing a bystander.

3. First-Degree Involuntary Manslaughter

4. When the defendant knowingly acts in a negligent or reckless manner that results in the death of another. For example, someone who was intentionally speeding or weaving through traffic before causing a crash.

5. Vehicular Manslaughter

   Missouri doesn't actually have a charge for vehicular manslaughter, but it is commonly used in other states. If someone causes the death of another person due to impaired driving, they will be charged with either first-degree or second-degree involuntary manslaughter. Impairment commonly involves drunk or drugged driving, but it can also occur because the driver was using their phone. If driving drunk, the defendant can be subjected to DWI penalties in addition to manslaughter charges.

For Every Charge, There is a Defense – Find It With Us

You might feel as if the criminal justice system has you in a corner when charged with involuntary manslaughter. Do not give up or give in. Call (314) 334-3807 to explore your defense options with our St. Louis involuntary manslaughter lawyers. We can use our collective defense experience to work towards the best possible outcome, be it a case dismissal due to a lack of evidence, a not guilty verdict from a jury, or a significant charge and sentencing reduction.

Find out more about manslaughter defenses by contacting us now.