In 2006, more than 1.4 million violent crimes were reported across the United States , and unfortunately thousands more go unreported each year. Manslaughter, which is quite common in the U.S. , is among these violent crimes. Manslaughter is the unlawful killing of one human being by another without advance planning. There are two levels of manslaughter including: voluntary and involuntary. Vehicular manslaughter is also a type of manslaughter crime.

Involuntary manslaughter, also called criminally negligent manslaughter, occurs when an individual is killed due to criminal negligence, or when someone is killed during another crime, where the intent was not to cause bodily injury or death. Manslaughter that is caused during another crime is referred to as “misdemeanor manslaughter.”

The punishment and penalties for involuntary manslaughter vary greatly from state to state and more importantly, case to case. The severity of the punishment and penalties will also depend on a wide variety of factors. For example, the punishment in the state of Vermont may differ slightly from the punishment in the state of California .

If you have been accused of involuntary manslaughter, whether you are guilty or not, you will need to hire a criminal lawyer or attorney. If you are suing a convicted criminal for damages resulting from involuntary manslaughter, you should hire a civil lawyer or attorney. If the person was not convicted and you still want to sue for damages, you should still hire a civil lawyer or attorney. Criminal lawyers and attorneys represent individuals who have been charged with crimes by arguing their cases in courts of law. A criminal lawyer or attorney will typically have a private practice concentrating on criminal law.

If you have been arrested for Involuntary Manslaughter, you should request an attorney at the time you are arrested or contact a private criminal lawyer or attorney immediately. A good criminal attorney will be familiar with involuntary manslaughter laws of the state in which the crime took place, they will be familiar with local court customs and procedures, and they will also have a clear understanding of the "hidden costs" of pleading guilty.

When searching for a criminal lawyer or attorney, visit the American Bar Association. The American Bar Association website features a lawyer locator which is an excellent tool you can use to help you find a criminal lawyer or attorney in your area. Access to the lawyer locator and the website is free.

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