Manslaughter Defense
Class B FelonyArk. Code Ann. § 5-10-1045 – 20 Years
Overview
Understanding the Charge
Manslaughter recognizes that not every killing is murder. Arkansas law treats deaths caused under extreme emotional disturbance, by reckless conduct, or in connection with assisted suicide differently — and the punishment reflects that lower level of culpability.
What the State Must Prove
- Causing a death under the influence of extreme emotional disturbance for which there is a reasonable excuse
- Recklessly causing the death of another — conscious disregard of a substantial and unjustifiable risk of death
- Purposely causing or aiding another person to commit suicide
- Recklessly causing the death of an unborn child under specified circumstances
Penalties On Conviction
Class
Class B Felony
Range
5 to 20 years
Fines
Up to $15,000
How We Defend Manslaughter Cases
No Recklessness
Mere negligence is not enough — the State must prove conscious disregard of a substantial risk.
Reasonable Explanation
When manslaughter is charged up from murder, the heat-of-passion theory can hold the line.
Accident
True accidents — without recklessness — are not crimes.
Causation
Independent intervening causes can defeat the charge.
Why Experience Matters
Manslaughter is often the right outcome in a tragic-but-not-murderous case. We use the manslaughter framework strategically — as a complete charge to defend, or as a reduction target in over-charged murder prosecutions.
Call 501-555-0199Free Consultation
Charged With Manslaughter in Arkansas?
Every hour matters. Our staff is ready to take your call and coordinate a free, confidential case review with a defense attorney.