Being accused of taking the life of another person can be a difficult predicament. There are situations in which this may lead to an involuntary manslaughter charge. Even though this isn’t a murder charge, it’s still a serious matter.
Anyone who’s facing an involuntary manslaughter charge in Maryland should ensure they understand a few specific points about this charge. Involuntary manslaughter involves killing someone by criminal negligence or recklessness. Interestingly, assisting a suicide is classified as involuntary manslaughter in Maryland. It carries up to a year in prison and is a felony charge.
Vehicular homicide is involuntary manslaughter
One form of involuntary manslaughter that some people may be familiar with is vehicular homicide. This occurs when someone is killed because a driver isn’t driving safely. Maryland criminal laws specifically address these types of vehicular manslaughter:
- While under the influence of alcohol
- Criminal negligence
- Gross negligence
- While impaired by a controlled dangerous substance
- While impaired by drugs
- While impaired by alcohol
With the exception of vehicular manslaughter due to criminal negligence, all those charges are felonies. All of those charges carry the possibility of up to at least three years in prison. Some have a maximum penalty of five years and others carry up to 10 years.
Facing an involuntary manslaughter charge must be taken seriously because of the possibility of considerable penalties if there’s a conviction. Working with someone who can assist with a defense strategy must be a priority for anyone who learns they’re facing this charge.