Losing someone to murder or manslaughter
Have you lost someone to murder or manslaughter?
Losing someone to murder or manslaughter is a devastating and life-changing experience. The shock, grief and trauma can be overwhelming.
If this has happened to you, we’re deeply sorry for your loss. Support is available to help you through this incredible difficult time.
What is murder and manslaughter in law?
Murder
Murder is when someone unlawfully kills another person with the intention to kill or cause serious harm.
Manslaughter
Manslaughter is when someone unlawfully kills another person but without the intention to kill or cause serious harm. There are different types:
Voluntary manslaughter – when someone intended to kill or seriously harm someone, but there are circumstances that reduce the severity (such as loss of control or diminished responsibility)
Involuntary manslaughter – when someone’s actions result in death, but they didn’t intend to kill or seriously harm anyone. This can include situations where someone acts recklessly or in a way that’s obviously dangerous.
The legal process following a murder or manslaughter can be complex and lengthy. Support is available to help you understand what happens and to guide you through the criminal justice process.
How you might be feeling
Losing someone to murder or manslaughter can affect you in profound ways. There’s no right or wrong way to grive.
You might feel:
- Shocked, numb or in disbelief
- Overwhelmed by grief or sadness
- Angry at what has happened
- Anxious, scared or unsafe
- Guilty or as though you could have done something to prevent it
- Isolated or unable to connect with others
- Confused by the legal process
- Traumatised by what has happened
You may also experience physical effects such as trouble sleeping, changes in appetite or feeling exhausted.
Grief can come in waves. Some days may feel more manageable than others. However you’re feeling is valid.
Get the help you need
If you would like information, advice or emotional support, call us on 0800 876 6155. We can listen to what has happened and provide specialist support for people who have lost someone to murder or manslaughter.
You can get support whether or not you’ve reported what happened to the police.
We can also help you:
- Understand the criminal justice process
- Access emotional support and practical support
- Connect with other specialist services
- Navigate the inquest and trial process
- Get help with financial or practical matters
Specialist support for families bereaved by homicide:
Support After Murder and Manslaughter (SAMM) – A national charity supporting families bereaved by murder and manslaughter.
Phone: 0121 472 2912
Text: 07342 888570
Victim Support Homicide Service – Specialist support for people affected by murder or manslaughter.
Phone: 0808 1689 111
Cruse Bereavement Support – Provides bereavement support and counselling.
Phone: 0808 808 1677
Additional support:
Inquest – Provides advice and support to bereaved people on the inquest process.
COPS (Concerns of Police Survivors) – Support for families bereaved through police or emergency service work.
The investigation and legal process
When someone dies as a result of murder or manslaughter, the police will investigate what happened. This investigation can take time, and the legal process that follows can be lengthy and complex.
What happens:
- The police will investigate and may make arrests
- There will usually be an inquest to establish how the person died
- If someone is charged, there will be a criminal trial
- You may be asked to provide a Victim Personal Statement, which allows you to explain how the crime has affected you
Your rights:
As a family member of someone who has been murdered or killed, you have rights within the criminal justice system. These include:
- The right to be kept informed about the investigation and any court proceedings
- The right to support from specialist services
- The right to make a Victim Personal Statement
- The right to ask questions at the inquest
We can help you understand these rights and what to expect at each stage.
Support through the process:
The legal process can be confusing and distressing. We can provide support and information to help you navigate:
- Police investigations
- Inquests
- Criminal trials
- Parole hearings (if relevant)
You don’t have to go through this alone.