Quote:
Originally Posted by schteve_d
Yes, I think so, but not being any sort of expert on the Amercian trial process, couldn't he be charged with second degree murder, then if the judge or jury decide that he is not guilty of that but still convict him of third degree? Or have I just watched too much American television?
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Im not sure but my guess is there can only be onedegree of a murder charge and then a lesser charge such as manslaughter.
Which is why the manslaughter was added on to the 3rd degree as it was...just in case.
Like i said they have experience in getting the 3rd degree against a cop already so im sure they are positive they can get there again. Go any higher and the burden on the prosecution goes up exponentially and they must think there
could be enough reasonable doubt among a jury to see him acquitted.