The Difference Between Wrongful Death & Manslaughter

A wrongful death case is a death that should have been avoided. Manslaughter applies to the same thing, but the two terms indicate what kind of court is hearing the case.

A manslaughter case is heard in a criminal court, and the court may issue jail time, fines, or both as punishment. On the other hand, wrongful death is heard in a civil court, and the court may award financial damages to the family and friends of the deceased.

It’s rare for a criminal court to require the convicted to pay the family of the deceased. If you’re struggling after the loss of your loved one, or you disagree with what a criminal court has decided, you should contact a New Orleans wrongful death attorney to get the real justice you deserve.