Blog
18 U.S.C. § 1112 – Manslaughter within federal jurisdiction
18 U.S.C. § 1112 – Manslaughter Within Federal Jurisdiction
18 U.S.C. § 1112 is the federal statute that defines and prohibits manslaughter within U.S. federal jurisdiction. This law establishes two forms of manslaughter as unlawful killings without malice aforethought.
Background of Federal Manslaughter Laws
Most homicides and violent crimes are governed by state laws. But the federal government has jurisdiction over certain areas like federal lands, Native American territory, federal facilities, and U.S. vessels.
Section 1112 allows federal prosecution of manslaughter that occurs in these jurisdictions. It was enacted in 1948 as part of the original federal criminal code.
Key Provisions of 18 U.S.C. § 1112
There are two primary forms of manslaughter under 18 U.S.C. § 1112:
- Voluntary manslaughter – Killing upon a sudden quarrel or in the heat of passion.
- Involuntary manslaughter – Criminally negligent killing during a lawful act.
Both types involve an unlawful killing without malice aforethought, distinguishing manslaughter from murder.
Penalties for Federal Manslaughter
18 U.S.C. § 1112 sets maximum sentences for manslaughter:
- Voluntary manslaughter – Up to 15 years imprisonment
- Involuntary manslaughter – Up to 8 years imprisonment
Fines, restitution, probation, and supervised release may also be imposed. The penalties are less severe than for federal murder under 18 U.S.C. § 1111.
Comparison to State Manslaughter Laws
Most states also have manslaughter statutes very similar to 18 U.S.C. § 1112. But the federal law establishes jurisdiction over manslaughter within federal boundaries and territories.
This allows federal prosecution regardless of state law. Prosecutors have discretion whether to bring state or federal charges.
Possible Defenses to Federal Manslaughter Charges
There are some potential defenses that a defendant can raise against federal manslaughter charges:
- Self-defense – Lawful use of force to protect life
- Lack of negligence – Actions were not criminally negligent
- Provocation – Reasonable response to legally adequate provocation
- Insanity – Unable to understand actions or distinguish right and wrong
An experienced federal criminal defense attorney can advise on the viability of any defenses based on the circumstances.
Other relevant federal laws involving homicide include:
- 18 U.S.C. § 1111 – Murder within federal jurisdiction
- 18 U.S.C. § 1113 – Attempted murder or manslaughter
- 18 U.S.C. § 1112 – Murder/manslaughter of federal officials
But § 1112 specifically covers the distinct crime of manslaughter under federal law.
Conclusion
18 U.S.C. § 1112 prohibits voluntary and involuntary manslaughter within federal jurisdiction. Charges under this statute should be taken very seriously. Anyone facing such allegations should immediately consult an attorney to protect their rights.
References:
[1] 18 U.S. Code § 1112 – Manslaughter
[2] 18 U.S. Code § 1112 – Manslaughter
[3] 18 U.S.C. § 1112 – U.S. Code Title 18. Crimes and Criminal Procedure § 1112
[4] 16.4 Manslaughter—Involuntary (18 U.S.C. § 1112)
[5] Appendix 101 – The Law of Homicide
[6] Criminal Resource Manual 1510 – Murder, First Degree, 18 U.S.C. § 1111