Question 1

What must a prosecutor prove to successfully convict a defendant on a charge of involuntary manslaughter:

Accepted Answer

Unlike most homicide crimes, involuntary manslaughter does not require proof of intent or knowledge. The state must generally show that the defendant acted recklessly, engaging in actions that posed a “substantial and unjustified” risk of causing the death of another person.

Question 2

Can a person be charged with involuntary manslaughter for causing a motor vehicle accident in which someone is killed?

Accepted Answer

Yes, under the right circumstances, a motor vehicle accident fatality may be charged as involuntary manslaughter. To obtain a conviction for involuntary manslaughter, the prosecution must prove that the driver who caused the accident acted recklessly, meaning they acted with a substantial and unjustified risk of killing someone. For example, evidence of driving while intoxicated may be sufficient to prove recklessness.

GETLEGAL^®ATTORNEY DIRECTORY

What Is Involuntary Manslaughter?

About GetLegal

List Your Law Firm in the GetLegal Attorney Directory

Newsletter Sign-Up

GETLEGAL®ATTORNEY DIRECTORY

About GetLegal

List Your Law Firm in the GetLegal Attorney Directory

Newsletter Sign-Up

GETLEGAL^®ATTORNEY DIRECTORY