If you need help now, call 612-436-3051
or
use our confidential form here
There are two degrees of manslaughter. Minnesota Statutes 609.20 (first degree manslaughter) and 609.21 (second degree manslaughter) govern these offenses.
Manslaughter in the first degree can be sentenced by up to 15 years imprisonment and/or up to a $30,000 fine. This offense consists of what you may know as the heat-of-passion killing. It also includes an unintentional killing relating to certain drug offenses or intentionally kills in self-defense or defense of others. See here.
Manslaughter in the second degree carries a sentence of up to 10 years in prison and/or up to a $20,000 fine. This offense includes killing by negligence, killing a person by mistaking them for an animal, killing a person by setting a dangerous trap like a snare or pit fall, and other such negligent acts. See here.
Federal manslaughter is murder without malice. This crime is governed by 18 U.S.C. § 1112. It can be either voluntary (such as heat of passion) or involuntary (such as during a non-felony crime). Voluntary manslaughter carries a sentence of up to 15 years in prison and/or a fine. Involuntary manslaughter carries a sentence of up to 8 years in prison and/or a fine. See here.
The preceding was a summary of the law. It does not describe all of the elements of the crimes. Laws are also constantly changing. You need to contact a skilled Manslaughter Attorney In Minneapolis to discuss the offenses in detail and with respect to your own particular case. Nothing in this description or anywhere on this site is legal advice.