South Carolina Homicide Charges

In South Carolina, homicide is where one person causes the death of another without legal justification.  Homicides include both murder and manslaughter and can be intentional or caused by reckless conduct.  Under South Carolina homicide law, murder is punishable by a minimum prison term of 30 years, but a person convicted of murder can receive a sentence of up to life in prison or death.

Because murder is such a serious crime, it is advisable that you contact a South Carolina homicide attorney as soon as you become a suspect.  Even if no formal charges are filed, a homicide attorney in South Carolina can protect your rights during the investigation and ensure that police and prosecutors treat you fairly.  If you are facing or may face murder or manslaughter charges, contact Jack B. Swerling.

Manslaughter in South Carolina

Manslaughter is a lesser offense of murder but is still a serious crime.  South Carolina homicide law defines manslaughter as the killing of another person, but without the malice necessary for murder.  Manslaughter usually involves a person causing the death of another in the heat of passion after experiencing a legally sufficient provocation.

Because manslaughter depends on the state of mind of the party and the sufficiency of the provocation, there is often a fine line between murder and manslaughter.  Manslaughter is punishable by a minimum sentence of two years in prison, but sentences can be as lengthy as 30 years without parole.

Involuntary Manslaughter in South Carolina

Involuntary manslaughter is also a lesser crime.  A person commits involuntary manslaughter when he or she causes the death of another while engaged in criminally negligent conduct—conduct showing a reckless disregard for the safety of others.  The conduct does not necessarily have to be illegal itself.

Involuntary manslaughter is still a serious crime punishable by up to five years in prison.

Homicide crimes are vigorously investigated and prosecuted.  Therefore, if you are suspected or charged with committing any of these serious crimes, contact a homicide attorney in South Carolina immediately.

Contact South Carolina Criminal Defense Attorney Jack B. Swerling Today

If you are facing homicide charges or learn you are the subject of a homicide investigation, call our law firm 24 hours a day at 800-701-0599.  Our answering service can direct you to Jack Swerling.  You may also contact Jack Swerling online.