What is the difference between voluntary and involuntary manslaughter?

Voluntary and involuntary manslaughter are two different types of criminal homicides. Voluntary manslaughter occurs when the perpetrator takes the life of another person intentionally, but without premeditated planning. This means that the killing was done in the heat of the moment, in response to provocation or in a “crime of passion.” In North Carolina, voluntary manslaughter is charged as a Class D felony and is punishable by up to 197 months in prison. Involuntary manslaughter, on the other hand, occurs when a person unintentionally takes the life of another person without premeditated planning. This could occur, for instance, if a person is driving recklessly and causes a fatal car accident. In North Carolina, involuntary manslaughter is charged as a Class F felony and is punishable by up to 41 months in prison. The main difference between voluntary and involuntary manslaughter is that voluntary manslaughter involves an intentional act while involuntary manslaughter involves a negligent act. Also, voluntary manslaughter typically carries a harsher penalty than involuntary manslaughter since it involves more deliberate intent. However, in both cases, the offender may be held legally and financially responsible for any resulting wrongful death.

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What is the difference between voluntary and involuntary manslaughter?

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