Everything You Need to Know About Manslaughter Laws in Minnesota

Facing manslaughter charges in Minnesota is a distressing and challenging experience. Because the charge involves the accidental loss of life, manslaughter comes with significant legal consequences, including potential jail time, fines, and a lasting criminal record. If you have been accused of manslaughter in Minnesota, understanding the different degrees of manslaughter and the possible defense strategies your attorney may use to fight the charges you face is vital.

At Knutson + Casey, our attorneys are dedicated to representing the criminally accused and fighting for justice on their behalf. We have over 30 years of experience helping our clients navigate Minnesota’s complex legal process. Our attorneys are committed to helping you understand your charges and will work with you to determine the best path forward, depending on your unique circumstances. 

Degrees of Manslaughter Charges in Minnesota

Manslaughter charges in Minnesota have different levels of severity contingent on the nature of the crime. The following are the different degrees of manslaughter in Minnesota:

First Degree Manslaughter

Also referred to as intentional or voluntary manslaughter, first-degree manslaughter charges might apply if the victim was killed in a heat of passion. For example, if someone walked in on another person attacking someone they love, they may reach an emotionally heightened state and kill the attacker, resulting in a first-degree manslaughter charge. 

While heat of passion crimes are the most common in first-degree manslaughter, there are other possible scenarios, such as someone being killed during an assault or an individual being coerced to kill the victim. 

Second Degree Manslaughter

Second-degree manslaughter is almost always committed without intent. When an individual knowingly engages in reckless behavior that results in the death of another person, they may be charged with second-degree manslaughter. One example of second-degree manslaughter is a person killed on a hunting trip because another hunter was reckless with their firearm. 

Defending Against Manslaughter Charges

Manslaughter charges can be frightening, and convictions carry significant penalties. Fortunately, there are strategies your attorney may use to fight your charges. A few common defenses against manslaughter charges in Minnesota include the following:

• Innocence: If you did not commit the crime in question, your primary defense should be your innocence. The prosecution bears the burden of proof and must establish your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt to achieve a conviction. 
• Self-defense: If you felt the need to use deadly force because you or another person were in imminent danger, you may be acquitted of acting in self-defense. 
• Insanity: If you had mental illness or incapacity during the crime, you may be able to use the insanity defense. This strategy asserts you were not capable of understanding your actions and, therefore, should not be held accountable. 

This is a partial list, and your defense will depend on the details surrounding your case. The talented attorneys at Knutson + Casey personalize their approach to every case and will tailor your defense to your unique situation.

Discuss Your Case With a Seasoned Manslaughter Defense Attorney at Knutson + Casey

If you have been charged with manslaughter in Minnesota, do not hesitate to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney. At Knutson + Casey, our attorneys have a proven track record of achieving favorable outcomes for their clients and protecting their rights throughout every stage of the criminal justice process. We understand what is at stake and will do everything in our power to defend your rights.

To schedule a free consultation, call us today at (507) 344-8888 or complete our contact form.