Homicide, Murder, & Manslaughter in Georgia: What Are the Differences?
Typically, when someone takes someone else’s life, people refer to it simply as “murder” without realizing that that is not always the case. For instance, it might not be murder but manslaughter. If you or someone you love is accused of homicide in Georgia, you must seek the help of the best defense attorney you can find. Remember that the unlawful killing of a person is always a serious crime, regardless of the category it falls in.
Here, the best criminal lawyers in Georgia, share with you the difference between homicide, murder, and manslaughter:
What Homicide Means in Georgia
In Georgia, homicide is the unlawful killing of a person without justification or excuse. This includes both first-degree murder and second-degree murder, manslaughter, and vehicular homicide.
What Is First-Degree Murder?
A person commits first-degree murder in Georgia when they unlawfully kill another human being with either express or implied malice aforethought. Express malice is the deliberate intention to take another person’s life, manifested by external circumstances that can be proven. Implied malice exists when there is no clear intention to kill, but the person’s actions show a reckless disregard for human life.
In the state of Georgia, all murder cases are tried under the same degree, except for when the death occurs during the commission of cruelty to children in the second degree. In this instance, the defendant will be tried for second-degree murder, regardless of malice.
What Is Manslaughter in Georgia?
When someone unlawfully kills another person without any prior intent or planning, it’s considered manslaughter in Georgia. Manslaughter is classified as a felony and is punishable by a prison sentence of one to 20 years.
There are two types of manslaughter in Georgia: voluntary and involuntary. Voluntary manslaughter occurs when somebody intentionally kills another person in the heat of the moment without any prior planning or intent. Involuntary manslaughter, on the other hand, happens when someone unintentionally kills another person while committing a crime or engaging in reckless behavior.
Both types of manslaughter are serious crimes and can have long-lasting consequences. If you’ve been charged with manslaughter, it’s essential to fully understand the charges against you and the possible defenses that may be available to you. A highly experienced criminal defense attorney can help you navigate the complex criminal justice system and fight for the best outcome possible in your case.
Penalties for Murder and Manslaughter in Georgia
Penalties for murder in Georgia are very severe. If convicted of murder, a person can be sentenced to life in prison or even the death penalty. Manslaughter, on the other hand, is punishable by up to 20 years in prison.
If you have been charged with homicide in Georgia, it is vital to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. A seasoned attorney can review the facts of your case and help you understand your rights and options.
Conclusion
Homicide, murder, and manslaughter are serious crimes that have life-altering consequences. However, there are some critical differences between them. Homicide is the general term used to describe the killing of one person by another. Murder is a specific type of homicide committed with premeditation and malice aforethought. Manslaughter, on the other hand, is a type of homicide committed with no premeditation or malice aforethought and is typically divided into two categories: voluntary and involuntary.
As with anywhere else, these are considered serious crimes in Georgia. And if you or someone you love is accused of either murder or manslaughter, you must get the best criminal lawyer in Georgia to defend you.
Hanks, Ballard & Barth is a reputable firm that offers the legal expertise of the best criminal lawyers in Georgia. Schedule your consultation with us today!
