What charges will a person face if they murder someone in Minnesota? Is it murder charges or manslaughter charges? If a person causes the death of another person in Minnesota, they will be charged with either murder or manslaughter. Wondering what sets these two types of charges apart? Read on as we discuss the differences between murder and manslaughter in Minnesota.
Understanding Minnesota Murder vs. Manslaughter Statutes
So, what is the difference between murder and manslaughter? The simple answer to this question is the perpetrator’s perceived intentions. Is there evidence proving that the accused went out of their way to kill the victim? Was there any reckless activity that led to the death of the victim? Was it a crime of passion?
Here is a simple analysis of murder and manslaughter charges in Minnesota.
Murder
There are three degrees of murder charges in Minnesota: first-degree murder, second-degree murder, and third-degree murder.
- First-degree murder: If a person is charged with first-degree murder in Minnesota, they are accused of the gravest form of homicide offense. For a person to be proven guilty of this charge, they must have intentionally caused the death of the victim with premeditation and an unequivocal intent to take a life.
- Second-degree murder: Second-degree murder happens when an individual causes the death of another with the intent to kill but without premeditation. What distinguishes this charge from first-degree murder is the element of premeditation.
- Third-degree murder: While less severe compared to first and second-degree murder charges, third-degree murder is still classified as murder in Minnesota. You may face third-degree murder charges when your actions lead to the death of the victim through eminently dangerous actions.
Manslaughter
Manslaughter charges in Minnesota are divided into two degrees: first-degree manslaughter and second-degree manslaughter.
- First-degree manslaughter: This charge applies when an individual intended to cause the death of another person and was provoked by words or actions that would provoke any ordinary person under similar circumstances. First-degree manslaughter is often referred to as a “crime of passion,” typically arising from events in the heat of the moment.
- Second-degree manslaughter: In Minnesota, this charge is classified as involuntary manslaughter. It arises when an individual’s reckless or negligent actions result in the unintentional death of another person. This charge is commonly associated with cases involving fatal accidents where the accused’s actions displayed carelessness or disregard for the safety of others.
Experienced Legal Defense
Understanding the key differences between murder and manslaughter in Minnesota is crucial for anyone involved in these cases. Given the potentially harsh penalties associated with these charges, it is vital to work with an experienced Minneapolis criminal defense attorney. Reach out to Lynne Torgerson Criminal Defense Attorney, today for more information.