Manslaughter Defense in Lexington, KY
What Is Manslaughter in Kentucky?
Manslaughter is a type of violent crime. It is a less serious offense than murder but more serious than a property crime. Manslaughter involves the death of another person and is usually a result of recklessness or criminal negligence.
If you've been charged with manslaughter, you need the help of a skilled criminal defense lawyer in Lexington. At Oakley & Oakley, we have helped many clients fight for their freedom. Your future and your freedom depend on it.
Call (859) 712-7365 right now for a free case review. Our attorneys are available 24/7.
What Are the Penalties for Manslaughter in Kentucky?
The penalties for a conviction of manslaughter in Kentucky depend on the circumstances of the offense. If you are convicted of the offense, you may face:
- A Class B felony, punishable by 10 to 20 years in prison, if the victim was a police officer, firefighter, EMT, corrections officer, or judge
- A Class C felony, punishable by 5 to 10 years in prison, if the victim was a police officer, firefighter, EMT, corrections officer, or judge
- A Class D felony, punishable by 1 to 5 years in prison, if the victim was a first or second-degree relative
- A Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail, if the victim was a third-degree relative
In addition to prison or jail time, a manslaughter conviction may also result in fines and restitution. You may be required to pay restitution to the victim's family or to the family of the victim.
What Is the Statute of Limitations for Manslaughter in Kentucky?
A violent crime such as manslaughter has a statute of limitations of five years. This means that the state must bring charges within five years of the offense. However, if you have been charged with a murder, the state may wait until the last victim dies before charging you.
What Are Some Common Defenses for Manslaughter Charges?
There are several defenses that may apply to your manslaughter charge. The defenses will depend on the specific facts of your case. However, some of the most common defenses to a manslaughter charge include:
- Self-defense
- Defense of others
- Defense of property
- Accident
You need to hire a criminal defense lawyer right away if you have been charged with a violent crime. Our firm has decades of experience defending clients against manslaughter charges. We know the system and we know how to fight for our clients.
Contact Our Firm for a Free Case Review
If you have been charged with a violent crime, you need a criminal defense lawyer. At Oakley & Oakley, we are ready to help you fight for your freedom. We are ready to help you fight for your freedom. We are ready to help you fight for your freedom. We are ready to help you fight for your freedom.
Call (859) 712-7365 to schedule your free case review. We are available 24/7.
Have a Question?
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What is Probable Cause?
Probable cause is a legal term that is often misunderstood. Law enforcement must have probable cause to believe you committed a crime before they search or arrest someone.
Probable cause is a particular and reasonable belief that an individual is:
- committing a crime,
- has committed a crime or
- is about to commit a crime.
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How to Know if You Hired a Good or Bad Criminal Defense Attorney
If you are accused of a crime or you are under investigation for a crime, you have the right to legal counsel. It does not matter whether you face drug crime charges, DUI charges, or weapons charges. The United States Constitution guarantees you the right to consult with a criminal defense lawyer. Never give up or waive your right to counsel when facing criminal charges in Kentucky. Always exercise your right to consult with a lawyer before answering questions or giving the police a statement.
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Do I Need a Criminal Defense Lawyer if I Shoot Someone Who Breaks Into My House?
If someone breaks into your home, the use of deadly force could be justifiable under Kentucky’s self-defense laws and the Castle Doctrine. However, there are exceptions in which the use of deadly force could result in an arrest for assault, homicide, or manslaughter.
It is wise to understand your legal rights to avoid a weapons charge or murder charge, especially if you own a gun to protect yourself and your family from intruders.
