Involuntary Manslaughter Jail Time in Michigan: The Facts
In Michigan, involuntary manslaughter is a misdemeanor offense that can result in significant jail time. Unlike voluntary manslaughter, which typically carries a longer sentence range, involuntary manslaughter is when a person unintentionally commits a crime that results in another person’s death, often due to reckless actions or negligence. In this article, we will explain the jail time for involuntary manslaughter in Michigan and examine the factors that influence sentences.
How Much Jail Time for Involuntary Manslaughter in Michigan?
The maximum sentence range for involuntary manslaughter in Michigan is up to ten years in prison [1]. However, courts often impose sentences at or near the minimum end of the range, typically for first-time offenders or for those who show remorse or cooperate with authorities.
**• minimum:** 0-360 days (0-13 days); **
• median: 0-360 days (0-13 weeks); **
• maximum: 10 years (840 months)
**Factors Influencing Jail Time**
Several factors can influence the jail sentence for involuntary manslaughter in Michigan, including:
• Prior criminal record: **felony convictions** can add to the sentence, ranging from 5-18 days jailtime on consecutive occasions [2]
• Recidivism: Repeat offense can lead to longer term sentences
• Degree of recklessness: More violent or reckless behavior may lengthen the sentence
* Age and background of perpetrator: Younger offenders tend to receive shorter sentences
Health and mental state of person: **Substance-induced impairment** may reduce offense severity
**Sentencing Guidelines**
In Michigan, the sentencing guidelines for involuntary manslaughter are based on Michigan Sentencing Guidelines Manual MCL 777.38. The guidelines take into account the following factors: [3]
• Mitigating factors:
° Minerva offense occurred [***]
° Victim was <18 years old
° Victim was ≥51 years old
° Previous convictions for **mislconduct** (non-aggravated) offenses under MCL 769
° Previous convictions for an **offense** relating to **dangerous intoxicated operation** under MCLA 257.625)
• Aggravating factor:
° Death resulted [***] as a consecutive or concurrent term of MCL 777. 38
**Penalty Enhancements**
Michigan adds penalty enhancements for certain crime combinations, such as for **dangerous intoxicated** operation (MCLA **957 ** or death attributable due to **negligently** or **reckless** behavior [4 ]
**Involuntary Manslaughter Examples**
Here is a breakdown of possible legal scenarios and the potential jury verdicts for involuntary manslaughter sentences within:
o Shooting deaths
o Traffic accidents – speeding, DUI, & reckless driving
o Fires – accidental, negligence, or reckless conduct
O Workplace accidents – employer, employee, or third person liability
**Conclusion**
