Involuntary Manslaughter

Involuntary Manslaughter is the unlawful killing unintentionally caused by wanton or reckless conduct creating a high degree of likelihood that substantial harm will result to another.  It is also the unlawful killing caused by the commission of a battery in circumstances in which the person committing the battery knows or reasonably should know endanger human life.

In order to prove the crime of Involuntary Manslaughter, the prosecutor must prove, beyond a reasonable doubt:

1. That the defendant committed an unintentional and unlawful killing.  In other words, that the killing was unlawful and that the defendant intended the conduct that caused the death, but the prosecutor does not need to prove that the defendant intended the death that resulted from the conduct;
2. That the killing was caused by wanton or reckless conduct.  This means that the defendant's actions created a high degree of likelihood that substantial harm would result to another; and
3. The wanton or reckless conduct caused the death of the person.

Essentially, there are two aspects of the crime of Involuntary Manslaughter: one is the wanton and reckless conduct that results in death; the other is the unintentional killing resulting from a battery that doesn't amount to a felony which the defendant knew or should have known endangered human life.

Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 265, Section 13, provides for commitment to state prison for up to 20 years upon a conviction for the crime of Involuntary Manslaughter.

If you have been charged with the crime of Murder, you should immediately contact an experienced criminal defense lawyer who can explain and help protect your legal rights.  Boston Criminal Lawyer Lefteris K. Travayiakis is available 24/7 to discuss your criminal case with you. 

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