Involuntary manslaughter is a Class F felony offense in North Carolina. Although it is not as serious as murder under the law, it is still a crime that is aggressively prosecuted in our state.
Specifics of Involuntary Manslaughter
Involuntary manslaughter differs from other crimes that result in death in that intention or malice are not involved. Rather, involuntary manslaughter is the unlawful killing of another human being under any of these circumstances:
By an unlawful act that is neither a felony nor inherently life-threatening
Through engaging in reckless or careless conduct with a disregard for the safety of others
By not performing one’s legal duty
Penalties for Conviction
If you are convicted of involuntary manslaughter, you could be sentenced to 10 to 20 months in prison, as well as having a felony conviction on your permanent criminal record. If you have any prior convictions, the time you may be sentenced to will be greater.
Voluntary Manslaughter
Voluntary manslaughter is a type of homicide that is not classified as seriously as first or second-degree murder. It is a felony under North Carolina law.
Voluntary manslaughter may occur in acts of self-defense or during a crime of “passion,” such as may occur when one spouse finds another committing adultery.
Prosecution and Punishment
In order to be convicted of voluntary manslaughter, the prosecution must prove that you:
Killed another human being
Without malice or intention
Voluntary manslaughter is a Class D felony, punishable by 38 to 160 months in prison.
