Involuntary Manslaughter

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Involuntary Manslaughter

In order to critically discuss whether the law governing involuntary

manslaughter is in a satisfactory state, I must first look at the

current law, outlining the problems, and then look at proposed

changes.

Involuntary manslaughter –

* This is where death occurs as a result of conduct by the

defendant.

* It has similar AR to murder, but lacks the MR of murder.

* It can include a very wide set of circumstances.

* The maximum sentence is life, but the judge has discretion in

sentencing.

* There are three types of involuntary manslaughter, as well as a

newer area which is emerging. These are;

* Constructive manslaughter (unlawful act manslaughter)

* Gross negligence manslaughter

* Subjective recklessness manslaughter

* And the newer area, corporate manslaughter.

Constructive Manslaughter

This is made up from an unlawful and dangerous act where death is the

consequence, even though death may never have been contemplated by the

defendant.

AR

* The defendants’ unlawful and dangerous act caused the death of

another human being.

MR

* It must be proved that D had the MR for the unlawful act, but it

is not necessary to prove that D foresaw any harm from his act.

An omission is not enough to create unlawful act manslaughter, as

shown in the case of Lowe where the defendant was charged with

neglecting his child. This could be seen as slightly unfair, as an

omission causing death may be just as bad, as or even worse than an

act causing death. For instance, flicking a cigarette in a petrol

station, as it is an unlawful act, littering, and a dangerous act, and

if a death occurred could amount to constructive manslaughter. Neglect

to a child could be seen as more serious than this, but does not

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