What Are Potential Defenses To Murder Or Manslaughter Charges In Georgia?

Georgia has several affirmative defenses to murder charges. For example, there is self-defense, the defense of others, and the defense of self-habitation. Georgia is a stand-your-ground state, which means that a person is not required to retreat without using self-defense.

Do Most Murder Or Manslaughter Charges End Up Going To Trial, Or Are They Settled?

In my experience, most manslaughter cases get settled by plea deals. Oftentimes, a person who is initially charged with murder will take a plea to a reduced charge of manslaughter. With a charge of manslaughter as opposed to murder, a defendant has a greater chance of getting out of prison and returning to their life at some point in time. Most murder charges that do not get reduced end up going to trial; otherwise, the defendant will face at least 30 years in prison with only a small chance of being granted parole.

Why Is It Critical To Hire An Experienced Attorney To Handle Murder, Homicide Or Manslaughter Charges?

Georgia has some of the toughest criminal laws in the country and some of the harshest sentences, which is why it is absolutely imperative for a person who is facing a death charge to seek the assistance of an experienced criminal defense lawyer who has handled these types of cases, who practices in the jurisdiction of the accused, and who has a good reputation. Murder cases can linger for many years. I have one open murder case that has been going on since 2012 and it still has not reached trial. The relationship between the attorney and the accused will be a long one, which is why the accused must have confidence in and feel comfortable with their attorney.

I practice primarily in criminal defense cases, and I have tried a multitude of cases, including homicide, armed robbery, aggravated assault, aggravated battery, family violence battery, felony obstruction of a law enforcement officer, and even DUI and drug cases. I have tried many jury trials. It is absolutely critical that an accused person facing critical charges such as murder consult with several attorneys if possible. If they are unable, they should have their family members choose an attorney who has trial experience in these types of cases. Someone who has been accused of murder cannot afford to have their case handled by someone who only dabbles in criminal defense or who is only a plea attorney; they must choose a criminal defense trial attorney, and I must say that is what I am.

What Are The Differences Between Murder, Homicide And Manslaughter Charges?

Georgia law defines murder, homicide, and manslaughter charges in OCGA starting at 16-5–1. Murder is defined as unlawfully and with malice (either expressed or implied) causing the death of another human being. If convicted, a person could face the death penalty…Read More

For more information on Defenses To Murder Or Manslaughter Charge, a free initial consultation is your next best step. Get the information and legal answers you are seeking by calling (770) 637-5505 today.