Manslaughter Attorney in Boston

Facing A Manslaughter Charge Is Overwhelming. You Do Not Have To Face It Alone.

A manslaughter accusation means that another person has died and that prosecutors may be pursuing a serious felony conviction against you. If you or someone you care about has been arrested on this kind of charge in the Boston area, you are likely worried about prison time, a permanent record, and what will happen to your family. In this moment, you need clear information and a steady legal team that understands how Massachusetts courts handle these cases.

At Gens & Stanton, P.C., we focus on guiding people through some of the most difficult moments of their lives. Our attorneys have been defending individuals in serious criminal cases since 1991, and we work carefully to build strategies that fit each client’s circumstances. When you reach out to us, you speak with a firm that knows the local courts, understands the stakes, and treats you as a person, not a case number.

Contact our trusted manslaughter defense lawyer in Boston at (617) 206-4675 to schedule a free consultation.

Turn To A Seasoned Boston Defense Firm After A Manslaughter Charge

When a manslaughter arrest happens, your first instinct may be to search for any lawyer who handles criminal cases. For a charge this serious, it is important to look deeper. You need a firm that has stood in Massachusetts courtrooms for decades, that understands how judges and prosecutors approach homicide related offenses, and that has the capacity to give your case close, individualized attention. That is the role we work to fill at Gens & Stanton, P.C..

Our firm is a boutique practice based in Boston with additional principal offices on Cape Cod. Since 1991, we have represented clients in a wide range of criminal matters, from disorderly conduct and operating under the influence to violent felonies, including murder. Because we are not a high-volume operation, our attorneys take the time to understand each client’s background, goals, and concerns before developing a defense plan. We believe that in a manslaughter case, this level of attention can make a meaningful difference in how issues are identified and presented in court.

Our team includes lawyers educated at institutions such as Harvard University and Tulane University, and we have handled cases at both the trial and appellate levels. That combination of academic training and courtroom experience helps us approach complex legal questions with care. We are familiar with the procedures and culture of Boston Municipal Court, Suffolk County Superior Court, and other Massachusetts courts where serious felony charges are heard. When we stand next to you at arraignment, pretrial hearings, or trial, we bring decades of local experience to the table.

What A Manslaughter Charge In Massachusetts Really Means

Understanding Manslaughter Versus Murder

Before you can make informed decisions about your case, you need to understand what the accusation itself involves. In Massachusetts, manslaughter is a form of unlawful killing that is treated differently from murder. Murder typically involves a specific type of intent to kill or cause severe harm. Manslaughter usually refers to situations where a death occurs without that same level of intent, although the exact legal definitions depend on the charge and the evidence.

Court decisions and statutes generally recognize two broad categories of manslaughter. Voluntary manslaughter often arises where there is an intentional act that causes death in the heat of the moment, such as a sudden fight or confrontation, without preplanned intent to kill. Involuntary manslaughter usually involves an unintentional killing that results from reckless or wanton conduct, for example, extremely dangerous driving or handling of a weapon in an unsafe way. The specific wording of any charge filed against you will depend on how law enforcement and the district attorney’s office interpret the facts.

Potential Consequences Of A Manslaughter Conviction

Potential consequences for a manslaughter conviction in Massachusetts can be severe. Depending on the circumstances, a conviction can involve a lengthy state prison sentence, time in a house of correction, probation with strict conditions, and a permanent felony record that affects employment, housing, and professional opportunities. There may also be immigration consequences for noncitizens. Because these cases arise from the death of another person, prosecutors in the Boston area usually devote significant attention to them, and judges may impose strict conditions of release while the case is pending.

Our attorneys work to ensure that clients understand what type of manslaughter charge they are facing and what the realistic range of consequences may be. We draw on our knowledge of Massachusetts criminal law and our experience handling serious cases in local courts to explain the legal landscape in clear, direct terms. With that foundation, we can have more productive conversations about options, priorities, and next steps.

What To Do Right After A Manslaughter Arrest In The Boston Area

Protecting Your Rights From The Start

The hours and days following an arrest are often confusing and frightening. You may be in custody, trying to reach family, or preparing for an arraignment hearing in Boston Municipal Court or Suffolk County Superior Court, depending on how the case is charged. In this period, certain choices can affect the path of your case. Several practical steps can help protect your rights.

First, you should be very careful about what you say and to whom you say it. Conversations with police, investigators, and others can be used as evidence. Even statements that seem harmless may later be interpreted differently. You have the right to remain silent and to request an attorney. Using those rights is not a sign of guilt. It is a way to protect yourself until you have had the chance to talk with a lawyer who understands the situation.

Gathering Information & Preparing For Arraignment

Second, it can be helpful for you or your family to gather basic information. This may include the location of any incident, the date and approximate time, and the names or contact information of people who may have seen what happened. If you can do so, writing down your recollection while it is still fresh can preserve details that may matter later. Family members can also make notes about any calls they receive from police or the court, including case numbers, court dates, and the courthouse where you are scheduled to appear.

Third, you will likely appear before a judge for arraignment. At this hearing, the charges are formally presented, and the court usually considers bail or conditions of release. In Boston, arraignments for serious offenses may occur quickly after arrest, and the setting can feel fast-paced. Having a lawyer present at this stage can help ensure that your rights are fully presented and that arguments can be made regarding bail, conditions, and the need to preserve evidence.

Our firm regularly appears in Suffolk County criminal courts, and we are familiar with the basic sequence of events in serious felony cases. Once we are contacted and retained, we work to step in as promptly as possible, learn what has already occurred, and help you and your family understand what to expect at the next hearing. While no lawyer can change what has already happened, timely legal guidance can help shape how the case moves forward.

How Our Attorneys Build A Defense In Manslaughter Cases

A Tailored Strategy For Your Situation

No two manslaughter cases are the same. Every situation involves unique facts, people, and histories. At Gens & Stanton, P.C., we approach these cases by carefully examining what actually occurred, how law enforcement has interpreted those events, and how Massachusetts law applies. Our goal is to design a defense strategy that reflects your specific circumstances rather than simply applying a standard template.

We begin by reviewing the formal charges, police reports, and any initial discovery provided by the prosecution. This helps us understand the theory of the case, including whether the Commonwealth is claiming voluntary or involuntary manslaughter, and what evidence it believes supports that claim. We look closely at how the incident unfolded, what witnesses have reportedly said, and how physical or forensic evidence is being described. In many cases, there are important questions about intent, level of risk, or whether the accused person’s actions actually caused the death in the way the prosecution claims.

Careful Analysis & Clear Communication

In addition to the government’s version of events, we take time to listen to you and your family. Your perspective on what happened, and on the relationships and context surrounding the incident, can be critical. As a boutique firm, we can devote the time needed to understand these details. We then consider how they intersect with potential defenses, such as self-defense issues, accident theories, or challenges to whether conduct was truly wanton or reckless under Massachusetts standards.

Our attorneys also think about how a case might unfold in front of a judge or jury. Trial and appellate experience gives us a sense of how courts have treated similar issues in past cases. That history helps inform decisions about pretrial motions, evidentiary challenges, and negotiation strategies. While many cases resolve without trial, it is important to prepare with trial-level rigor so that we can respond effectively to developments at each stage.

The academic backgrounds of our attorneys, including training at schools such as Harvard University and Tulane University, support our work on complex legal questions that often arise in manslaughter cases. We use that foundation to research relevant case law, examine the sufficiency of the evidence, and consider how to frame arguments in a way that is both accurate and understandable in court. Throughout this process, we stay in communication with you so that you know what we are doing and why certain choices are being discussed.

Why Families Across The Area Choose Gens & Stanton, P.C. For Serious Charges

Experience, Personal Attention & Broader Perspective

When a loved one is charged with manslaughter, families look for more than a name on the door. They want lawyers who have been through serious cases before, who will answer questions with honesty, and who can see the bigger picture of how a criminal case affects employment, property, and future planning. These are some of the reasons people turn to Gens & Stanton, P.C. when the stakes are high.

We have been representing clients in criminal and civil matters since 1991. Over that time, we have handled a wide spectrum of charges, including violent felonies such as murder, in Massachusetts courts. This long view gives us perspective on how charges evolve, how plea discussions may develop, and how courts often respond to different types of arguments. Our experience is not limited to trial-level work. We have also represented clients on appeal, which helps us appreciate how early decisions can affect the record if a case is later reviewed by a higher court.

As a boutique firm, we maintain a caseload that allows for more direct attorney involvement in each matter. Clients and families are not passed through layers of staff without contact with the lawyers handling the case. We strive to know our clients by name, understand their histories, and appreciate the pressures they are facing. In a manslaughter case, this approach supports more thoughtful strategic planning and more meaningful communication about options.

Our civil litigation practice, which includes business law, real estate, and estate planning, also informs our criminal defense work. A serious charge can affect a person’s job, professional licenses, business ownership, housing, or estate matters. Because we work in those areas as well, we are attuned to the ways a criminal case may intersect with other parts of a client’s life. We can identify when it may be appropriate to consult with our civil colleagues about steps to protect assets or address related disputes, always within ethical and practical boundaries.

Finally, we recognize that financial concerns are real in serious felony cases. Bail, lost income, and family responsibilities all create strain. Our firm is committed to providing cost-effective legal solutions. That means we are mindful of how we allocate time, we communicate openly about fees, and we focus our efforts on work that is likely to advance the client’s interests. We cannot eliminate the cost of a strong defense, but we can work to manage it responsibly.

What To Expect As Your Manslaughter Case Moves Through Massachusetts Courts

From Arraignment To Trial

Uncertainty about the legal process is one of the greatest sources of stress for people facing manslaughter charges. While no two cases follow the same path, many share a common sequence of events in Massachusetts courts. Understanding this general flow can help you prepare and can make conversations with your attorney more productive.

After arrest, the first major court event is usually an arraignment. In the Boston area, arraignments for serious charges may take place in Boston Municipal Court or Suffolk County Superior Court, depending on how the case is charged and what the district attorney’s office has chosen to file. At arraignment, the charges are read, you are advised of your rights, and the court generally addresses bail or conditions of release. The judge’s decision at this stage is often influenced by the nature of the charge, the allegations, your record, and community ties.

Following the arraignment, cases typically move into a pretrial phase. This can include pretrial conferences, compliance dates for the exchange of discovery, and motion hearings. During this period, your attorney reviews evidence, may file motions to challenge certain aspects of the case, and communicates with the prosecution about possible resolutions. In manslaughter cases, the pretrial phase can be extensive because of the volume and complexity of evidence, including witness statements, forensic reports, and any expert opinions.

If the case does not resolve through dismissal or a negotiated plea agreement, it may be scheduled for trial. In a trial, the prosecution must present evidence to attempt to prove the charge beyond a reasonable doubt, and the defense has the opportunity to cross-examine witnesses and present its own evidence where appropriate. The length and complexity of a manslaughter trial depend on the facts and the number of witnesses. Throughout this process, the court manages scheduling and addresses legal issues that arise.

Thinking Ahead To Appeals

In some situations, issues decided in the trial court become the subject of appellate review. Our firm’s experience with appellate work in Massachusetts informs how we think about preserving important issues and creating a clear record. At every stage, we aim to explain what is happening in clear terms and to prepare you for upcoming hearings so that you do not feel you are walking into court without understanding the purpose of the proceeding.

Frequently Asked Questions

What penalties could I face for manslaughter in Massachusetts?

The potential penalties for manslaughter in Massachusetts are serious and can include substantial time in state prison or a house of correction, along with probation and a permanent felony record. The specific range of sentencing exposure depends on factors such as whether the charge is treated as voluntary or involuntary manslaughter, whether there are any prior convictions, and the particular facts alleged by the prosecution. Courts also consider victim impact and any statements from the family of the person who died. In addition to direct criminal penalties, a conviction can affect employment, housing options, and immigration status. When you speak with our attorneys, we can review the exact charge and discuss the general kinds of penalties that courts have imposed in similar cases, so you have a clearer sense of the risks.

What is the difference between murder and manslaughter here?

In broad terms, Massachusetts law treats murder and manslaughter differently based on the level and type of intent. Murder usually involves proof of a certain mental state, such as deliberate intent to kill or to cause grievous bodily harm, often with additional legal elements that elevate the offense. Manslaughter, by contrast, involves an unlawful killing without that same degree of intent. Voluntary manslaughter commonly refers to a killing that occurs in the heat of passion or sudden conflict, while involuntary manslaughter generally involves an unintentional killing caused by wanton or reckless conduct. The line between these offenses can be complex, and prosecutors sometimes begin with one charge and later adjust it as they evaluate the evidence. Our role is to analyze the specific allegations, compare them to Massachusetts legal standards, and advise you on where your case may fall along that spectrum.

How quickly can your attorneys start helping after an arrest?

Once you or a family member contacts our firm and we are retained, we work to get involved as promptly as possible. In a serious case like manslaughter, early steps can include gathering basic information about the arrest, confirming upcoming court dates and locations, and preparing for arraignment or any scheduled bail hearing. The exact timing of our initial actions depends on when we are contacted and what stage the case has already reached. If you are still in custody, we can discuss arrangements with your family and explain how we typically communicate under those circumstances. Because we regularly appear in Suffolk County and other Massachusetts courts, we are familiar with the procedures that govern early hearings, and we use that familiarity to guide clients and their families through the first days and weeks after an arrest.

Will I have direct access to the lawyer handling my case?

As a boutique firm, Gens & Stanton, P.C. is structured so that clients have meaningful access to the attorneys working on their cases. While staff members may assist with scheduling and certain logistics, our goal is for you to know who your primary attorney is and how to reach that person with questions. In a manslaughter case, we recognize that concerns can be urgent and that families need regular updates. We work to maintain clear communication, explain developments in understandable terms, and respond to inquiries within reasonable timeframes. During an initial consultation, we can discuss how we typically handle communication so that expectations are clear on both sides.

Can a manslaughter charge ever be reduced or resolved without a trial?

In some cases, manslaughter charges can be resolved without a trial, either through dismissal of certain counts or through a negotiated plea to a different offense. Whether that is possible in a particular case depends on the strength of the evidence, the legal issues identified, the views of the prosecution and the court, and the client’s goals and risk tolerance. Sometimes, careful examination of the facts and law may support arguments that lead prosecutors to reconsider how a case is charged. In other situations, negotiation may focus on sentencing recommendations or conditions of any plea. Our attorneys draw on decades of work in Massachusetts criminal courts when advising clients about potential paths to resolution. We discuss the risks and potential benefits of each option so that any decision about trial or plea is made with as much information as possible.

How do legal fees work in a serious felony case like this?

Legal fees in serious felony matters, such as manslaughter, are usually structured differently from minor cases because of the amount of work involved. At Gens & Stanton, P.C., we are committed to providing cost-effective legal solutions, which include being open about fee structures and anticipated work. Factors that can influence cost include the complexity of the case, the volume of evidence, the number of court appearances, and whether the case proceeds to trial. During an initial consultation, we can discuss how our firm typically approaches fees in serious cases and what options may be available. Our goal is to help clients and families understand the financial aspects of representation so they can plan realistically while still receiving thorough advocacy.

What should I avoid doing while my manslaughter case is pending?

While your case is pending, there are several general precautions that can help protect your interests. You should avoid discussing the facts of the case with anyone other than your attorney, including on social media, in text messages, or in casual conversations, because those statements may be discovered and used in court. It is also important not to contact potential witnesses or the family of the person who died, unless your lawyer advises otherwise, since such contact can create misunderstandings or additional legal issues. Following all conditions of release set by the court, such as no contact orders, curfews, or travel limitations, is critical to avoid further problems. Our attorneys provide more tailored guidance once we understand the details of your case, and we encourage clients to ask before taking any step that might affect the legal proceedings.

Talk With Our Manslaughter Lawyer Boston Team In A Confidential Consultation

A manslaughter accusation can change the course of your life, but you do not have to navigate the legal system on your own. The attorneys at Gens & Stanton, P.C. bring decades of criminal defense experience, a deep understanding of Massachusetts law, and a boutique approach that emphasizes personal attention to every case. When you contact us, we take the time to listen to your concerns, explain the process, and discuss how we can work with you to move forward.

Our firm has been based in the Boston area since 1991, and we are familiar with the courts, procedures, and pressures that shape serious felony cases here. We know that reaching out to a lawyer can feel daunting at a time like this. We aim to provide clear answers, realistic guidance, and a steady presence as you confront the charges against you. If you or a loved one is facing a manslaughter allegation, we encourage you to seek legal advice as soon as you can.

To speak confidentially with our manslaughter attorney Boston team at Gens & Stanton, P.C., call (617) 206-4675.