What is the difference between voluntary and involuntary manslaughter?

Voluntary and involuntary manslaughter are two different forms of criminal homicide, which is the unlawful killing of another person. In Washington, both voluntary and involuntary manslaughter are serious violent crime offenses, and both carry the potential of significant legal repercussions. Voluntary manslaughter is an intentional, non-premeditated killing of another person. This typically occurs as a result of extreme emotional or mental distress, or upon the sudden provocation of another person. Voluntary manslaughter is considered a lesser offense than murder because of the mental state of the perpetrator at the time of the killing. Involuntary manslaughter is a homicide that is unintentional and occurs without premeditation or malice. This type of manslaughter occurs when a person negligently kills another, or when death is the result of a DUI or reckless driving. In Washington, involuntary manslaughter is a gross misdemeanor offense, and is generally punished less harshly than voluntary manslaughter. Generally speaking, both voluntary and involuntary manslaughter are serious offenses that can have lasting legal consequences. Depending on the severity of the crime and the circumstances surrounding it, convictions for either can result in jail time, and sometimes even significant prison sentences.

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What is the difference between voluntary and involuntary manslaughter?

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