Manslaughter

There are two separate crimes of manslaughter in Washington, but they are both violent felony offenses.

This charge is brought by the prosecution when a person recklessly causes the death of another person, or unlawfully kills the child being carried by a pregnant woman. This is a Class A Felony, and those convicted face imprisonment of up to a lifetime, and a fine of up to $50.000.00. This is a serious violent offense, meaning it is a "strike offense" under Washington's three strike's law.

2) Manslaughter in the Second Degree:

This charge is brought by the prosecution when a person causes the death of another with criminal negligence. This is a Class B Felony, and those convicted face imprisonment of up to ten years, and a fine of up to $20.000.00.

Often times manslaughter is charged when someone was killed, but there was no purposeful action which would better fit one of the other charges such as murder. This can happen when someone dies in an accident, and the prosecution believes that someone caused that accident by their reckless or negligent conduct.

Our experience in handling serious cases such as manslaughter is your advantage

There are several defenses to the crime of manslaughter, and the government has even provided that if certain of these defenses are proven in court, a defendant has a right to seek reimbursement from the state for their legal defense costs. For high stakes charges like these, it important to have a competent attorney that knows how to mount a strong defense, and has a team of investigation and support staff ready to help.

When you are facing serious criminal charges we can help. Call us at (253) 867-2675 to schedule a free initial consultation. Our criminal defense attorneys are standing by.