Homicide and Manslaughter Defense That Fights for Your Life
A homicide or manslaughter charge puts everything on the line—your freedom, your future, your name. At Almagno Law, we don’t just defend cases—we defend people. Our relentless legal strategies are built to challenge the evidence, expose weaknesses in the prosecution, and fight for the outcome you deserve.
What Are Homicide and Manslaughter?
Homicide means one person has caused the death of another. It’s a broad legal term that includes different types of killings—some intentional, some not. When it’s a crime, it can fall under murder or manslaughter.
Manslaughter is a type of criminal homicide where someone is killed without planning to do it. It usually happens in the heat of the moment or because of reckless actions. While it’s still very serious, it’s seen as less severe than murder because there was no intent to kill.
Imagine two different situations involving a death:
- Homicide (Murder): A person plans for days to harm someone and then carries it out. This is a criminal homicide with intent—classified as murder, the most serious form of homicide.
- Manslaughter: During a heated argument, one person punches the other in anger, not intending to kill—but the punch causes a fatal injury. This could be charged as voluntary manslaughter because there was no pre-planned intent, but the actions still led to someone’s death.
Consequences of a Homicide or Manslaughter Conviction
Being convicted of homicide or manslaughter can result in life-altering consequences, including:
- Lengthy Prison Sentences : Convictions can lead to decades—or even life—in state prison, depending on the charge.
- Permanent Criminal Record : A felony conviction stays with you for life, affecting everything from employment to housing.
- Loss of Civil Rights : You may lose the right to vote, possess firearms, or hold certain professional licenses.
- Emotional and Financial Toll : Legal battles, incarceration, and stigma can take a devastating toll on families and futures.
- Deportation for Non-Citizens : Non-citizens may face removal from the U.S. and permanent bars to re-entry.
- Difficulty Finding Employment : Many employers are hesitant to hire someone with a violent felony conviction, especially for jobs requiring trust or public contact.
- Housing Challenges : Convicted felons often face housing discrimination, including rejection from rental properties and public housing programs.
- Strained Personal Relationships : Serious criminal charges can lead to broken families, loss of custody, and long-term social isolation.
Understanding the Legal Process in Homicide & Manslaughter Cases
Facing a homicide or manslaughter charge doesn’t just mean a single court date—it’s a complex legal process that can take months or even years. At Almagno Law, we guide you through every step with clarity and confidence.
Here’s what you can expect:
- Investigation & Arrest : Police may investigate for weeks or months before making an arrest. It's critical not to speak without a lawyer present.
- Arraignment : This is your first court appearance, where charges are formally read, and bail may be discussed.
- Pre-Trial Motions : Your defense attorney may file motions to suppress evidence, challenge witness credibility, or even seek to dismiss charges.
- Plea Negotiations : In some cases, your attorney may negotiate a lesser charge or reduced sentence if it’s in your best interest.
- Trial : If no agreement is reached, the case goes to trial—where Almagno Law aggressively defends your rights in front of a judge or jury.
- Sentencing : If convicted, sentencing will follow based on the charge and circumstances. If acquitted, you walk free.
Knowing what lies ahead helps reduce fear and uncertainty—and having the right defense team can make all the difference.
Types of Homicide & Manslaughter Cases Handled by Almagno Law
At Almagno Law, we defend clients facing a wide range of homicide and manslaughter charges, including:
- First-Degree Murder : Intentional and premeditated killing—considered the most serious criminal offense with the harshest penalties.
- Second-Degree Murder : A killing that is intentional but not pre-planned, often involving impulsive actions or extreme recklessness.
- Voluntary Manslaughter : A death resulting from a sudden outburst of emotion, often in the heat of passion or after serious provocation.
- Involuntary Manslaughter : Occurs when someone causes another’s death through reckless or negligent behavior, without any intent to kill.
- Vehicular Homicide : Causing a death while operating a vehicle under the influence or in a dangerously reckless manner.
- Felony Murder : When a death occurs during the commission of another felony, such as robbery—even if the death was unintended.
Why Choose Almagno Law?
When you’re facing a homicide or manslaughter charge, you need more than just a lawyer—you need a proven defense team. At Almagno Law, we bring years of courtroom experience, deep knowledge of Rhode Island criminal law, and a relentless drive to protect your rights. We take a personalized, strategic approach to every case, working closely with clients to uncover the truth, challenge weak evidence, and fight for the best possible outcome—because your life, freedom, and future matter.
Frequently Asked Questions
It depends on the severity of the charge and the circumstances. Some homicide charges may result in bail being denied, but your attorney can argue for release during a bail hearing.
These cases are often complex and may take several months to over a year to resolve, especially if they go to trial. The timeline varies based on the evidence, court schedule, and defense strategy.
Penalties vary, but a conviction for voluntary or involuntary manslaughter can result in significant prison time, fines, probation, and a lifelong felony record.
Absolutely. Innocence alone does not guarantee a dismissal. A skilled defense attorney protects your rights, challenges wrongful accusations, and ensures that your side of the story is heard in court.
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Let’s work together and discuss your case. Almagno Law is committed to providing you the most efficient, compassion, and professional counsel in Rhode Island.