Being accused of murder or a homicide offence is one of the most serious and stressful situations a person can encounter, with profound impacts on both life and reputation.
At TV Edwards, our solicitors, recognised by Chambers and Partners (2026) for excellence, provide expert, compassionate support to individuals and organisations across London and the UK.. We are here to guide you through every step of this stressful ordeal, from the initial police investigations to the later court proceedings, to achieve the best possible outcome for our clients.
Understanding Murder & Manslaughter Charges
Murder and manslaughter, collectively known as homicide, are among the most serious criminal offences, carrying severe sentences like life imprisonment or unlimited fines in the case of organisations. Our expert solicitors defend cases including:
- Murder: Unlawfully killing another person with the intent to kill or cause grievous bodily harm.
- Attempted Murder: Acting with the intent to kill.
- Voluntary Manslaughter: Killings with partial defences like loss of control or diminished responsibility.
- Involuntary Manslaughter: Unlawful killings without intent, due to gross negligence or dangerous acts.
- Corporate Manslaughter: Organisational negligence causing death, under the Corporate Manslaughter and Homicide Act 2007.
These charges involve complex investigations and severe consequences. However, our solicitors act as quickly as possible to challenge evidence, explore defences, or negotiate resolutions, helping clients to regain control.
Contact us to learn more.
When to Seek Legal Advice
In order to build a robust case when defending against a murder or manslaughter charge, we recommend contacting our solicitors immediately after you have been arrested.
Early action will likely preserve essential evidence and maximise your chances of a favourable outcome. Our solicitors are available 24/7 to offer clear and empathetic tailored to your case.
Contact us for advice.
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Our Approach to Murder & Manslaughter Cases
Our solicitors aim to approach each case with empathy, while defending our clients with precision and care. We work with the very best barristers and expert witnesses to build robust defences, ensuring you feel supported throughout the process.
- Case Assessment: We will review the allegations against you, analyse the evidence and assess any available defences such as self-defence, diminished responsibility or loss of control.
- Court Representation: We instruct skilled barristers to advocate strongly in court.
- Negotiation: We will negotiate with the prosecution and pursue alternative lesser charges.
- Clear Communication: We provide regular updates and transparent cost estimates.
Our solicitors ensure their approach is tailored to each client.
Collaborative Expertise
Our solicitors work with experts such as forensic scientists, cell site specialists, psychiatrists, and psychologists to support the preparation of their client’s defence.
By blending legal expertise with a genuine commitment to the wellbeing of our clients, we deliver strategies to protect your freedom or business.
Why Choose TV Edwards?
- Highly ranked in legal directories – recognised by Legal 500 and Chambers UK both named solicitors and the department as a whole
- Immediate emergency support – call us on 0844 880 7588 for round-the-clock advice
- Specialist representation – police station advisors, solicitors, and higher court advocates
- Hardworking problem-solvers – we fearlessly challenge evidence, protecting your interests
- Honest and down-to-earth – we explain your options compassionately and in plain English
Our Accreditations
TV Edwards is recognised in the Times Best Law Firms 2026, with Lexcel and Cyber Essentials accreditations. We uphold the highest standards of professionalism and client trust. Our drug offences expertise means your case will be handled with precision, empathy, and integrity.
You can learn more about our Partners and Management Team here.
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Murder & Manslaughter Frequently Asked Questions
What are the types of manslaughter?
Voluntary manslaughter occurs where all of the elements to prove murder are present, including an intention to cause death or grievous bodily harm, but a partial defence such diminished responsibility or loss of control, is successfully raised.
Involuntary manslaughter usually involves gross negligence or a dangerous act, and is without the intent to kill.
Both are distinct from murder and carry different sentencing ranges depending on culpability and circumstances.
What happens during a murder or manslaughter investigation?
Investigations involve police interviews, forensic analysis, and evidence gathering, often by specialist units.
Our solicitors challenge allegations early to limit any escalation. We provide clear guidance to ease your concerns and strengthen your defence.
How can I defend a murder or manslaughter charge?
When it comes to defending a murder or manslaughter charge, you can challenge evidence, prove lack of intent, or argue partial defences like diminished responsibility.
In order to robustly defend a murder or manslaughter charge, it is important to instruct expert solicitors from the earliest opportunity.
Can a murder charge be reduced to manslaughter?
Yes, in some cases a murder charge may be reduced to manslaughter if partial defences such as diminished responsibility, loss of control, or a suicide pact apply.
Our experienced solicitors carefully examine evidence and legal arguments to pursue the most favourable outcome for you.
To see how we can help you, contact our team.
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