Manslaughter Attorney in Cobb County
Your Defense Trusted by Cobb County Residents
At Smith, Schnatmeier, Dettmering & Kilgo, LLP, we understand the seriousness of facing manslaughter charges and the profound impact it can have on your life. Our Cobb County-based law firm is here to offer unwavering support and skilled legal representation tailored to your needs.
With our team’s extensive experience, which includes former District Attorneys, we leverage their insider understanding of the legal process to build robust defense strategies. We are committed to maintaining open communication, ensuring our clients are well-informed and confident throughout the legal proceedings.
Don't wait to get legal help. A manslaughter attorney in Cobb County from our firm is available to discuss your case. Call us today at (770) 599-5328 or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation.
Understanding Manslaughter Laws in Georgia
In Georgia, manslaughter is a homicide that occurs without the legal element of "malice aforethought." This is the key distinction that separates it from murder. Georgia law classifies manslaughter into two main categories, each with its own legal definition and set of penalties:
- Voluntary Manslaughter (O.C.G.A. § 16-5-2): This offense occurs when a person kills another human being under circumstances that would otherwise be murder, but the act is done as a direct result of a "sudden, violent, and irresistible passion" that was caused by "serious provocation." This is punishable by a prison sentence of not less than one nor more than 20 years.
- Involuntary Manslaughter (O.C.G.A. § 16-5-3): This offense occurs when a person causes the death of another human being without the intent to do so. Involuntary manslaughter can be charged in one of two ways:
- In the commission of an unlawful act: This is a felony offense and applies when a person unintentionally causes a death while committing a non-felony crime. For example, a person committing a misdemeanor battery who unintentionally causes a death can be charged with felony involuntary manslaughter. The penalty is one to 10 years in prison.
- In the commission of a lawful act in an unlawful manner: This is a misdemeanor offense and applies when a person unintentionally causes a death while performing a lawful act in a reckless or criminally negligent manner. For example, a person who drives recklessly and causes a fatal car accident could be charged with misdemeanor involuntary manslaughter. The penalty is up to one year in a county jail.
Our firm is experienced in distinguishing between these charges and arguing for a lesser offense where appropriate. We will meticulously analyze the facts of your case to determine the exact nature of the charges against you and build a defense tailored to the specific statutes you are accused of violating. We are a dedicated manslaughter attorney in Cobb County.
The Right Choice for Your Defense
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Constant Contact with Client
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Results Oriented
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Personalized Attention
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100+ Years of Combined Experience
Client Experiences
Hear from those we've represented in their legal battles.
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Thank you, Ben Smith, for your time, knowledge, and your thoroughness and wisdom
Former Client -
Ben, I was very impressed with how you handled everything.
Jeff -
Mr. Schnatmeier made the experience as painless as possible. He was very responsive and I was pleasantly surprised by how available he was.
Anonymous
Our Comprehensive Approach to Manslaughter Defense
With over 100 years of combined legal experience, our approach to defending clients against manslaughter charges is aggressive, thorough, and strategic. We believe that a strong defense requires meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to exploring every possible angle. We do not rest until we have uncovered every fact and every piece of evidence that can help your case.
Our defense strategy for a manslaughter attorney in Cobb County often includes:
- Challenging the Evidence: We will examine the evidence, question the chain of custody, and seek out independent forensic analysis to dispute the prosecution's findings. This can include challenging DNA evidence, ballistic reports, or fingerprint analysis.
- Investigating Law Enforcement Procedures: We will review all police reports and body camera footage to identify any procedural errors, constitutional violations, or improper conduct during the investigation or arrest. Evidence obtained illegally can be suppressed.
- Self-Defense or Defense of Others Claims: We will build a compelling self-defense argument, showing that you acted to protect yourself or another person from immediate danger.
- Alibi Defense: If you were not at the scene of the crime, we will work with investigators to locate witnesses, review security footage, and gather other evidence to prove you were somewhere else.
- Challenging Intent: We will work to show that you lacked the required intent to commit the crime. A skilled Cobb County manslaughter defense lawyer can argue that the killing was accidental, happened in the heat of passion, or was the result of a mistake of fact.
Our firm is dedicated to providing you with the best possible defense. We understand the intricacies of Georgia law and how to use it to your advantage. A manslaughter attorney in Cobb County must be prepared to fight every step of the way, and we are ready.
Why Choose Our Manslaughter Lawyers in Cobb County
Choosing Smith, Schnatmeier, Dettmering & Kilgo, LLP means choosing a firm with over 100 years of combined litigation experience. Our attorneys hold distinguished ratings such as 10.0 Superb Avvo ratings and are recognized as Super Lawyers.
What sets us apart is not only our proven track record of successful defense but also our commitment to upholding ethical standards. Our dual perspective from prosecutorial and defense backgrounds grants us a unique advantage in understanding and countering strategies employed by the prosecution.
Our approach includes:
- Initial Consultation: We begin by listening to your story and understanding the specific circumstances of your case.
- Personalized Legal Strategies: Leveraging our knowledge of local laws and court procedures to tailor defense strategies.
- Continuous Communication: Keeping you informed of all developments and ensuring you understand every step of the process.
- Vigorous Advocacy: Representing your interests passionately both inside and outside the courtroom.
Take the Next Step Towards a Strong Defense
If you're facing manslaughter charges in Cobb County, don't navigate the legal system alone. By choosing Smith, Schnatmeier, Dettmering & Kilgo, LLP, you gain a partner that’s committed to defending your rights and achieving a fair outcome.
Contact us online or call (770) 599-5328 to schedule a consultation.
