Murder vs. Manslaughter

Posted By Law Offices of Jeffrey C. Grass || 9-Mar-2012

Murder and manslaughter are among the most severe violent crime offenses. Many individuals do not have a clear understanding of the difference between these two crimes. A criminal attorney can help you understand how murder differs from manslaughter.

Murder
Murder refers to the intentional killing of another individual without legal justification or excuse. There are several different types of murder defined by the criminal justice system. First degree murder or “cold-blooded” murder is categorized as premeditated, deliberate, or a malicious act that intentionally caused the death of another person. Second degree murder, on the other hand, is categorized as murder in the heat of passion which tends to involve situations in which the person acted during periods of rage, anger, terror, or fear.

Manslaughter
Manslaughter is considered a lesser criminal offense than murder—however, the penalties in Texas may include years in prison with the possibility of life. Unlike murder, manslaughter is defined as the unlawful killing of another individual that does not include malice aforethought. This means that the death of the other party was not preconceived or planned ahead of time. The two main types of manslaughter include involuntary and voluntary manslaughter. Involuntary manslaughter occurs when an individual’s reckless actions or disregard of potential risk results in the death of another person. Voluntary manslaughter occurs when a person kills another after being suddenly provoked—however, the killing is not considered murder as the individual’s actions may have taken place during an emotional state that prevented them from controlling their behavior.

Whether you’ve been falsely charged with murder, manslaughter, or a DUI, the Law Offices of Jeffrey C. Grass is here to help. For more information on our practice areas and to speak with a criminal defense attorney, contact our Plano office online or call .