SB 611
Codifying common-law definition of involuntary manslaughter
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House of Delegates
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
Senate Bill 611 aims to formally establish the legal definition of involuntary manslaughter in West Virginia. Currently, the definition is based on common law. The bill clarifies that a person can be convicted of involuntary manslaughter if their actions, even unintentionally, lead to another person’s death and are considered proximately caused. It also specifies that this offense applies when death occurs during the commission of a crime not classified as a felony or during an otherwise lawful act performed unlawfully.
Key provisions
- Codifies the common-law definition of involuntary manslaughter.
- Specifies that a defendant’s actions must proximately cause the death of another.
- Applies to deaths resulting from unlawful acts not classified as felonies.
- Applies to deaths resulting from unlawful acts performed in a lawful manner.
Who is affected
- Defendants accused of involuntary manslaughter
- Victims of unintentional deaths
- The judicial system in West Virginia
Notable changes
- Provides a more explicit legal definition of involuntary manslaughter.
- Reinforces the requirement of proximate cause for a conviction.
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