How do murder and manslaughter differ?

Murder and manslaughter both involve taking another person’s life. The difference between them lies in the intentions of the person who committed the act.

When an individual intends to kill another person and carries out the plan, then the individual has committed murder. However, if an individual accidentally kills someone without planning the harm the individual, then the individual has committed manslaughter.

Generally, manslaughter carries a lesser sentencing than murder even though both are serious offenses. In states with the death penalty, individuals who commit manslaughter cannot be sentenced to capital punishment.

If you have further questions about the differences between murder and manslaughter, contact the Champaign criminal defense lawyers of Bruno Law Offices at (217) 328-6000 to speak with one of our experienced attorneys.