Homicide And Manslaughter Defense Attorneys In Rapid City
Last updated on January 30, 2026
South Dakota laws regarding homicide and manslaughter are incredibly strict. Navigating these high-stakes felony charges requires the help of a trial-tested attorney.
Skinner Law Office, P.C., provides aggressive and dedicated legal representation for clients throughout Rapid City and the Black Hills region. Our founding attorney, Matthew L. Skinner, brings over 25 years of experience to every case he handles.
Distinctions Between Murder And Manslaughter In South Dakota
Murder requires premeditation, which means planning the act beforehand. On the other hand, manslaughter involves deaths that occur in the heat of passion or through reckless behavior.
Homicide charges can lead to Class A, Class B or Class 1 felony exposure. These penalties include decades in prison or life behind bars. When facing these charges, working with a homicide defense lawyer in Rapid City, a manslaughter attorney in South Dakota or a murder defense lawyer in the Black Hills can make a world of difference.
Defenses To Homicide Charges That Protect Your Freedom
Common defense strategies include:
- Self-defense or defense of others: You acted to protect yourself or someone else from serious harm or death.
- Lack of intent: The death was accidental, and you had no intention to kill.
- Insufficient evidence: The prosecution cannot prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt.
Our Rapid City manslaughter attorney, who knows how to challenge evidence, can make the difference in your outcome.
Why You Need A Local Trial Veteran
Matt Skinner and his criminal defense team have defended violent crime cases in the courts of Pennington and Meade counties for decades. He knows the judges, prosecutors and juries. Our violent crimes attorney in Pennington County is not afraid to take your case to trial if doing so means protecting your rights and freedom.
Call For A Free Consultation Because Your Future Depends On It
When someone dies and you face charges in South Dakota, our defense team at Skinner Law Office fights for your freedom with hands-on representation and customized legal strategies. We offer free initial consultations by phone at 605-519-5600 or online because we believe your side of the story deserves to be heard.