New Jersey law defines several types of criminal homicide.
Murder is probably the best known criminal homicide action, while manslaughter is a less well understood form.
In Aggravated Manslaughter, defined under N.J.S.A. 2C:11-4a, a person is accused of either recklessly causing a person’s death under circumstances manifesting extreme indifference to human life, or causing a person’s death while fleeing or attempting to elude a law enforcement officer.
The key difference between murder and manslaughter is the element of intent.
In manslaughter cases, the defendant is not accused of intending to cause a person’s death, but recklessly engaged in conduct that created the means of a person’s death.
Though the state doesn’t have to prove that you intended to cause a death, Aggravated Manslaughter is, like murder, a crime of the first degree with a sentence of 10-30 years if convicted.
If you’ve been charged under 2C:11-4a, your entire future is at risk.
The accusation that you caused another person’s death, even accidentally, is often enough to cause huge social disruption and close off opportunities throughout your life, even if you’re never convicted.
The penalties if you’re convicted of aggravated manslaughter are extremely serious and your defense deserves the attention of an experienced attorney.
Get the right kind of help to protect your rights and freedom.
Call Matthew Reisig today at 732-625-9661 and talk to an experienced New Jersey criminal defense lawyer for free.