Involuntary manslaughter is a criminal offense defined as the unintentional killing (homicide) of another person as a result of criminal negligence, recklessness, or during the commission of a misdemeanor (driving while intoxicated), infraction (speeding), or a felony crime that was not inherently dangerous. Involuntary manslaughter is usually a felony offense and often includes significant jail or prison time as potential punishment.
Involuntary manslaughter laws vary from state to state and are generally located in a state’s statutes—often in the penal or criminal code.
In Montana, involuntary manslaughter is addressed under the Montana Code Annotated (MCA) as 'Negligent Homicide' (Section 45-5-104). This statute defines the offense as causing the death of another human being through an act of negligence that constitutes a gross deviation from the standard of care that a reasonable person would observe under similar circumstances. Negligent homicide in Montana is considered a felony. The punishment for negligent homicide can include imprisonment in the state prison for up to 20 years, a fine of up to $50,000, or both. The specific circumstances of the case, such as the level of negligence and the presence of any aggravating factors, can influence the severity of the sentence. It is important to note that Montana law distinguishes negligent homicide from deliberate homicide, which involves intentional or knowingly caused deaths, and carries more severe penalties.