Manslaughter Attorney in Kentucky
Decades of Reliable Guidance: Your Louisville Manslaughter Defense Team
If you or someone close to you has been charged with manslaughter in Louisville, having an experienced legal team is essential. At William M. Butler, Jr., Attorney at Law, we are committed to strong, effective criminal defense, leveraging over 35 years of courtroom advocacy and deep insight into Kentucky’s criminal laws. Our history in Louisville means you benefit from targeted defense strategies, advanced trial skills, and a client-first approach every step of the way.
The moment you reach out to our firm, you are treated with respect and personalized attention. We understand the uncertainty these cases bring, and our approach is built around giving you clear answers and reliable representation throughout the process. With decades spent in Jefferson Circuit Court and regular engagement with local prosecutors, we know what it takes to build a thorough defense for complex manslaughter charges in Kentucky.
Contact a manslaughter attorney in Kentucky to protect your rights. We have over 35 years of experience. Call (502) 237-0871 or reach out online.
Understanding Manslaughter Laws in Kentucky
In Kentucky, the crime of manslaughter is a category of homicide that is less severe than murder but is still a very serious felony. Unlike murder, which requires a specific intent to kill or a "malice aforethought," manslaughter is defined by the absence of this malicious intent.
The state of Kentucky recognizes two primary types of manslaughter:
- First-degree manslaughter
- Second-degree manslaughter
The distinction between these two is crucial to a proper defense strategy. A knowledgeable manslaughter attorney in Kentucky will meticulously analyze the specific circumstances of your case to determine the exact nature of the charge and build a strong defense.
First-Degree Manslaughter (KRS § 507.030)
The state must prove that you caused the death of another person. The state must also prove that the killing was intentional but that it was done in a highly emotional state. This is often an intentional killing that lacks the element of "malice aforethought" because it was committed "under the influence of extreme emotional disturbance." The prosecution's case often relies on testimony of the alleged victim, witnesses, and complex forensic evidence.
- Penalties: This is a Class B felony, punishable by a prison sentence of 10 to 20 years. It is considered a violent crime, and parole is not available until 85% of the sentence is served.
Second-Degree Manslaughter (KRS § 507.040)
The state must prove that you unintentionally caused the death of another person. The state must also prove that the death was the result of your "wantonly" causing the death of another. Wanton conduct means that a person is aware of a substantial and unjustifiable risk of death but consciously disregards it.
- Penalties: This is a Class C felony, punishable by a prison sentence of five to 10 years. It is not considered a violent crime, and a person may be eligible for parole after serving 20% of the sentence.
It is also important to note that a charge of manslaughter can be filed alongside other offenses, such as aggravated assault, reckless driving, or driving under the influence (DUI). A knowledgeable manslaughter attorney in Kentucky will work to prevent any enhancement of your charges and will fight for a resolution that minimizes the impact on your life.
What to Expect from Our Manslaughter Defense Attorneys in Louisville
Facing any criminal accusation can be daunting, and a manslaughter charge in Louisville introduces significant uncertainty. We design every defense strategy to deliver clarity and peace of mind at every milestone.
Choosing a manslaughter criminal defense attorney in Louisville means partnering with a team that has deep knowledge of local laws and practical experience handling these complex cases.
- In-depth case review: We begin by reviewing police reports, witness statements, forensic evidence, and prosecution documents for procedural irregularities or potential defenses.
- Personal communication: Our attorneys meet with you promptly to explain charges, potential penalties, and immediate next steps, answering your questions honestly and thoroughly.
- Strategic defense preparation: We develop your defense by working with investigators, expert witnesses, and leveraging our deep familiarity with Louisville court processes.
- Pretrial negotiations & advocacy: Our strong relationships within the Louisville legal system are key to seeking lesser charges or favorable outcomes when appropriate.
- Trial-ready representation: Should your case proceed to trial, our decades of courtroom experience become your greatest asset, allowing us to fight vigorously on your behalf.
As your case moves forward, our manslaughter defense attorneys in Louisville keep you up to date, arrange prompt meetings, and help prepare you for each court appearance or hearing. We conduct detailed investigations and use local resources, such as familiarity with common local evidentiary issues and access to trusted experts, to strengthen your position.
By beginning every case with a focused evidence review and thorough communication, we provide actionable advice that helps you make critical decisions about plea deals, trial strategy, and witness preparation.
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"A Man of His Word"
Mr. Butler is a man of his word. I can call him and within 24 hours Bill will call me back. I will never be in trouble again, but if I was, the first person I would call would be Mr. Butler.
- David C. -
"He Never Refused a Phone Call"When the case could not be resolved without a jail sentence, he went to trial. I was not convicted. As a result, I did not miss the first 10 years of my infant daughter’s life.- Former Client
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"Top-Notch Negotiator"His negotiation skills are top notch and he is kind and understanding. I couldn’t have asked for a better outcome to my case.- Heather D.
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"Kind and Knowledgable"Mr. Butler was very kind and knowledgeable. He also went above and beyond what I expected him to do. I do recommend his services to anyone who would need them.- Nancy B.
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"Deserves More than 5 Stars!"I would highly recommend William Butler over any lawyer I've known or dealt with. His and Karen's dedication and results deserve more than these 5 stars! He got my charge dismissed and my worries were over!- John D.
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"The Best Referral I've Ever Gotten"
A police officer gave me Bill's number and said if he ever got into trouble this is who he would use. The best referral that I have ever gotten. Don't risk your life on a cheap lawyer, you get what you pay for.
- Former Client -
"Outstanding and Caring"Mr. Butler is an outstanding and caring attorney. I know he has my best interest at heart I would not have another attorney defend me.- Sara L.
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"He's Never Let Me Down"I would recommend Bill Butler to anyone needing help. He has been my lawyer for over 15 years and has never let me down once. He is an amazing lawyer!!!!- Jenifer R.
Building a Strategic Defense Against Manslaughter Charges in Kentucky
Every case is unique, and we develop a defense strategy tailored to your specific circumstances.
As a seasoned Louisville manslaughter lawyer, we will leverage every possible defense, including:
- Self-Defense or Justifiable Homicide: We can argue that you were not the aggressor and that your actions were a reasonable response to the threat of physical harm from the alleged victim. Kentucky law recognizes the right to use reasonable force in self-defense.
- Lack of Intent or Mens Rea: We can argue that you lacked the necessary mental state to commit the crime. For a first-degree manslaughter charge, we can argue that the killing was not intentional. For a second-degree manslaughter charge, we can argue that the state has not proven that your conduct was reckless or criminally negligent.
- Insufficient Evidence: The prosecution must prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt. We will argue that the evidence presented is not sufficient to meet this high standard, either because the witness testimony is inconsistent or the forensic evidence is flawed.
- Mistaken Identity: We can argue that you have been misidentified as the person who committed the crime. This defense is particularly strong when the identification is based on a flawed witness lineup or a single, fleeting observation.
- Constitutional Violations: We will challenge any violation of your rights, such as an unlawful search and seizure or a coerced confession.
Why Choose William M. Butler, Jr., Attorney at Law as Your Manslaughter Lawyer in Louisville
Manslaughter cases in Louisville require a focused, credible defense from a law firm with a longstanding commitment to criminal law. As one of the region’s respected trial lawyers and a recipient of National Trial Lawyers Top 100 recognition, William M. Butler leads our team with a sharp understanding of the legal landscape and what’s at stake for your future.
- More than 35 years of trial experience: We understand the intricacies of Kentucky’s legal process and maintain a respected presence in Louisville’s courts.
- Tailored defense strategies: We build every case plan to fit your unique situation, meticulously reviewing all details to craft the strongest defense for your issue.
- Client-focused communication: You stay fully informed—our team ensures you are prepared and aware of every important update as your case moves forward.
- Ongoing legal learning: Our firm prioritizes continuing legal education, equipping us with up-to-date strategies that enhance our approach to defending against criminal charges.
You deserve a manslaughter criminal attorney in Louisville who is deeply familiar with Kentucky law and understands how local courts handle these sensitive cases. Our exclusive focus on criminal defense means we stay at the forefront of the field, keeping our strategies innovative and responsive to changes in local legal proceedings.
Personalized attention and direct access to your defense attorney ensure you can have your concerns addressed efficiently, without the confusion of dealing with a large, impersonal firm. We have earned a reputation for careful, diligent advocacy and provide guidance designed to support your well-being as well as your legal position in any Louisville manslaughter case.
Reach out to William M. Butler, Jr., Attorney at Law today at (502) 237-0871 and let our dedicated defense team help bring you peace of mind.
YOUR CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWYER
- With over 35 years of experience defending clients
- Who is confident and proficient in trial
- Who speaks your language and the language of prosecutors
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