Bend Manslaughter Attorney

Over 50 Years of Combined Experience

If you or a loved one is facing manslaughter charges, it's crucial that you find a qualified Bend criminal defense lawyer. These types of charges are serious and can result in harsh penalties, making it imperative that you defend yourself with a quality lawyer.

At Ward Grover, our experienced team can provide you with the guidance and support you need to create an effective defense. We understand that every case is unique, and we take a personalized approach to meet your legal needs. Our team has helped many clients with manslaughter charges involving DUIs and reckless driving, and we can help you. If you're looking for a reliable defense against manslaughter charges, don't hesitate to contact us.

Dial (541) 312-5150 to learn more about how our manslaughter defense attorneys in Bend can help you.

Criminal homicide can take on different forms depending on the circumstances of the offense and the alleged criminal intent. Manslaughter can be charged when death results from a driving offense. The offense typically involves criminal negligence, recklessness, or recklessness under circumstances manifesting extreme indifference to human life.

First Degree Manslaughter

According to ORS 163.118, first degree manslaughter is a criminal homicide that is committed a) recklessly under circumstances manifesting extreme indifference to the value of human life; b) intentionally while under the influence of an extreme emotional disturbance; or c) recklessly causing the death of a child under 14 years of age.

Manslaughter in the first degree is a Class A felony, which carries a statutory maximum of 20 years in prison and a fine of $375,000. However, because it is a Measure 11 offense, the mandatory minimum sentence is 120 months in prison.

Second Degree Manslaughter

Manslaughter in the second degree is a criminal homicide that is committed a) recklessly or b) with criminal negligence where the victim is younger than 14 (or a dependent person). It may also occur where someone intentionally or knowingly aids, solicits, or causes another person to commit suicide.

According to ORS 163.125, manslaughter in the second degree is a Class B felony, carrying a statutory maximum of 10 years and a fine of $250,000. However, because it is also a Measure 11 offense, conviction requires a mandatory minimum sentence of 75 months in prison.

Aggravated Vehicular Homicide

As stated in ORS 163.149, aggravated vehicular homicide also involves the person having a previous conviction of manslaughter in the first degree, manslaughter in the second degree, or criminally negligent homicide, and “the victim’s death in the previous conviction was caused by the person driving a motor vehicle.”

Aggravated vehicular homicide is a Class A felony. The sentence can include up to 20 years in prison and/or up to $375,000 in fines.

How We Can Help You in Your Manslaughter Case

Being charged with manslaughter is a serious offense in Oregon and can come with severe consequences. When compounded with a reckless driving or DUI charge, the stakes are even higher. Not only could you face long prison sentences, but you may also be slammed with high fines.

We can help by:

• Investigating your case
• Building a strong defense suited for your personal situation
• Representing you and fighting for your rights
• Helping you understand legal jargon and systems
• Providing guidance and support during this time
• And much more

It's essential to seek out the guidance and support of a qualified attorney in your time of need. Our experienced Bend manslaughter attorneys have the knowledge to help you navigate the legal system, and we can work to protect your rights.

Don't face these charges alone — your future and freedom are too valuable. Call us at (541) 312-5150 or reach out to us online.