I’ve Been Charged with Involuntary Manslaughter – Will I Go to Jail in Nevada?

I’ve Been Charged with Involuntary Manslaughter – Will I Go to Jail in Nevada?

Being charged with involuntary manslaughter can be an incredibly scary and stressful situation. I know the anxiety you must be feeling, wondering if you’ll go to jail or even prison in Nevada. This article will walk you through the basics of involuntary manslaughter charges, potential penalties, and possible defenses so you have a better understanding of what to expect. I’ll also share some advice on steps to take next if you or a loved one is facing this charge.

What is Involuntary Manslaughter in Nevada?

Involuntary manslaughter is defined in Nevada Revised Statute 200.070 as an unintentional killing that happens while committing an unlawful act or a lawful act unlawfully. So even if you didn’t mean to kill someone, if it happened while you were doing something dangerous or illegal, it can still be involuntary manslaughter.

Some examples could include:

• Causing a death while driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• A fatal accident while speeding or reckless driving
• The unintentional death of someone during an assault or battery
• A death resulting from negligent use of a firearm

As you can see, there’s a broad range of actions that could lead to an involuntary manslaughter charge if someone is accidentally killed. The key is that the unlawful or negligent act ultimately resulted in someone’s death.

What Are Some Common Defenses Against Involuntary Manslaughter?

While the charges may seem intimidating, there are often strong defenses that an experienced criminal defense lawyer can use to fight them. Some common ones include:

• Lack of intent – Since involuntary manslaughter involves an unintentional killing, you may be able to show you had no intent or knowledge that your actions could result in someone’s death.
• Self-defense – If the death occurred while you were defending yourself or someone else in response to an imminent threat, it may be justifiable.
• False accusations – The prosecution has the burden of proving your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If there is little evidence against you or witnesses are unreliable, you may be able to beat the charges.
• Intoxication – You can argue you were too intoxicated to form the intent necessary to be found guilty or know the risks of your behavior.
• Provocation – If the incident happened in the “heat of passion” after being provoked, it may reduce the charges to voluntary manslaughter.

An experienced criminal defense attorney will thoroughly investigate your case to determine the best defense strategy to pursue. Don’t hesitate to discuss all your options.

What Should I Do if I’ve Been Charged with Involuntary Manslaughter?

Being arrested for involuntary manslaughter can make you feel helpless, but there are steps you can take to protect your rights and future:

1. Remain silent – Don’t say anything to police without your lawyer present. What you say can be used against you.
2. Hire an attorney – An experienced criminal defense lawyer can argue for reduced or dismissed charges. Don’t go it alone.
3. Follow pretrial release conditions – Make all court dates and follow any other rules, like staying sober, to show you’re responsible.
4. Avoid social media – Don’t post anything online related to your case – it can be used as evidence.
5. Get character references – Ask people who know you well to write letters vouching for your good character to help at sentencing.
6. Seek counseling – Seeing a grief counselor can help you process emotions and demonstrate remorse to the court.

While being charged with involuntary manslaughter is scary, having an experienced attorney on your side can make all the difference. Don’t lose hope – fight the charges and work to protect your future.

If you or a loved one has been arrested for involuntary manslaughter in Nevada, contact a qualified criminal defense attorney today. With an aggressive legal defense, many of these cases can ultimately be reduced or dismissed. Don’t leave your fate up to chance – fight for the best possible outcome in your case.