At Sterling Legal we have the expertise that is crucial to ensure that you are well represented with the best possible outcome in matters relating to murder and manslaughter.

We pride ourselves on our experience when dealing with the Police and are skilful in interacting with Courts nationally and the Commonwealth Justice System.

If you have been charged with murder or manslaughter, you should seek advice from an experienced criminal defence lawyer as soon as possible. Contact Sterling Legal, let us strenuously fight for your rights and freedom.

Murder and Manslaughter Offences

As Criminal lawyers, we aim to relieve some of the pressure during this stressful time, whilst ensuring the best possible outcome.

Our client’s services include:

• Provide you with expert legal advice based on:
  • the offence;
  • your rights;
  • the likely penalties and potential defences, and
  • your options;
• Assist you through your interactions with the Police;
• Manage your matter as it progresses through the judicial Court system; and
• Fight to ensure your rights and the best possible outcome.

What is the difference between murder and manslaughter?

MURDER

• Murder is contingent on the offender having planned and premeditated the actions that resulted in the death of a person.
• It is also often defined as deliberately inflicting bodily harm with the intent of and resulting in the unlawful killing of another person.
• The Supreme Court deals with all murder offences. The maximum penalty being life imprisonment.

MANSLAUGHTER

Manslaughter is an unintentional, often accidental and/or random, action resulting in the death of a person. There are two types of manslaughter:

Voluntary Manslaughter:

• An intentional action performed as a result of circumstances where there was absolutely no premeditation or planning to inflict bodily harm with the intent of killing another person.

• Where the offender temporarily lost control and consciousness over their actions, which may stem from provocation.

Involuntary Manslaughter:

• Occurs when an unintentional and accidental action which results in the death of another person.

• There was no planning or premeditation involved.
• Motor vehicle accidents are the most common form of manslaughter cases.
• Manslaughter offences are dealt with in the Supreme Court.
• Penalty can range from 7 to 25 years’ imprisonment.

What is the offence ‘Conspiracy to Murder’ and what are the penalties?

• Conspiring to murder involves two or more individuals (including the offender) soliciting, encouraging, facilitating, persuading or proposing to have another person murdered. Conspiracy to Murder also includes the aspiration or desire to encourage any person to commit murder.
• Offenders can be charged regardless of whether the intended target was murdered or not. Police must prove that the ultimate objective of the conspiracy was murder.
• Conspiracy to Murder offences are dealt with in the Supreme Court.
• Penalty 6 to 25 years’ imprisonment.