1. Understanding Indiana's
Homicide Laws
A PRESENTATION BY ZAKI ALI, ATTORNEY AT LAW

2. What are the differences between
homicide charges?
 Unlike other states, which distinguish between
various levels or degrees of murder, all murder
charges in Indiana fall under the same statute.
 However, there are other manslaughter charges that
will define a homicide that occurs accidentally or as
the result of a sudden emotional response.
 Learn the difference between homicide charges.

3. Murder
Indiana defines murder as any of the
following:
 Intentional homicide of another person
 Homicide while committing, or attempting
to commit, certain felonies
 Intentional homicide of a fetus which has
attained viability
Nearly everyone understands the dictionary definition of murder as the unlawful killing of another
human being. Legally, however, a homicide must meet certain criteria to be considered murder.

4. Voluntary Manslaughter
 A lesser (although still extremely serious)
homicide charge is voluntary manslaughter.
 Voluntary manslaughter is a very subjective
charge, as it must be proven that the
offender committed the homicide “in the
heat of emotion.”
 Common examples of voluntary
manslaughter include some self-defense
cases, as well as homicide committed after
an individual discovers a cheating spouse.

5. Involuntary Manslaughter & Reckless
Homicide
 Separate from both voluntary
manslaughter and murder charges,
involuntary manslaughter requires a lack
of intent to kill.
 A common example of involuntary
manslaughter, or the separate but related
reckless homicide, would be vehicular
homicide. Drunk or distracted drivers who
kill passengers, other drivers, or
pedestrians, could be found guilty under
these statutes.
 While a lesser charge than other forms of
homicide, involuntary manslaughter is still
a felony.

6. Charged with Homicide?
 Zaki Ali is an Indianapolis criminal defense lawyer
with a strong track record of successful results.
 He has aggressively defended residents of
Indianapolis and the surrounding counties for
more than 15 years and passionately advocates for
his client’s rights.
 Call our office today for reliable legal defense for
your case!

7. Contact Zaki Ali, Attorney at Law
Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Monday through Friday (After Hours and Weekends Available
by Appointment Only)
Phone Numbers:
(765) 697-9002
(765) 649-1254
Indianapolis Office:
127 East Michigan Street, Suite 201
Indianapolis, IN 46204