Murder Sentencing Guidelines – Minimum to Maximum for Every State

Skip to State by State Overview of Murder Sentences

The minimum and maxiumum sentence for murder varies depending on the jurisdiction and the specific degree or classification of the murder charge. In the United States, for example, minimum sentences can differ significantly among states and even within different degrees of murder (e.g., first-degree, second-degree, and third-degree murder).

What is the minimum sentence for 1st degree murders?

Arkansas has the smallest potential sentence for 1st degree murders with a minimum sentence of 10 years.

What is the minimum sentence for 2nd degree murders?

Illinois has the smallest potential sentence for 2nd degree murders with a minimum sentence of 4 years.

Alabama Murder Sentencing Guidelines

Mandatory sentencing for various homicide offenses includes a range of 2 to 20 years for manslaughter, while second-degree murder carries a sentence of 10 to 99 years, or life with a minimum of 15 years if a deadly weapon was used. For capital or first-degree murder, the possible sentences include the death penalty, life without parole, or life with parole eligibility after 30 years, the latter being an option only if the defendant was under 18 at the time of the crime.

Alaska Murder Sentencing Guidelines

Second-degree murder carries a sentencing range of 5 to 99 years, while first-degree murder typically results in a sentence of 20 to 99 years. However, if an aggravating factor is present in a first-degree murder case, the convicted individual may face a more severe penalty of 99 years without parole. After serving 49.5 years, the individual may apply for a one-time reduction in their sentence. For juveniles convicted of first-degree murder with an aggravating factor, a judge has the authority to sentence them to 99 years, but the governor holds the power to grant them parole.

Arizona Murder Sentencing Guidelines

Negligent homicide carries a mandatory sentence ranging from 1 to 3.75 years for a first-time violent felony offense. Manslaughter, also considered a first-time violent felony offense, requires a sentence of no less than 7 years and no more than 21 years. For second-degree murder, the mandatory sentencing for a first violent felony offense is not less than 10 years and not more than 25 years. In cases of felony first-degree murder, the punishment may include the death penalty (if there are aggravating circumstances), natural life imprisonment, or 25 years to life, with the latter being an option only if the defendant was under 18 at the time of the crime. For premeditated first-degree murder, the sentence may involve the death penalty (in the presence of aggravating circumstances), natural life imprisonment, or 25 years to life. The last option is applicable only if the murder took place before August 2, 2012, or the defendant was under 18 at the time of the crime.

Arkansas Murder Sentencing Guidelines

Second-degree murder sentences range from 6 to 30 years, while first-degree murder convictions result in a sentence of 10 to 40 years or life without parole. Defendants under 18 at the time of the crime may be eligible for parole after serving 25 years. Capital murder convictions lead to either the death penalty or life without parole, with the latter allowing parole eligibility after 30 years if the defendant was under 18 when the crime was committed.

California Murder Sentencing Guidelines

Vehicular manslaughter, depending on the level of negligence, has different penalties. For standard negligence, the punishment is up to one year in county jail. In cases of gross negligence, the penalty can be up to one year in county jail as a misdemeanor or 2, 4, or 6 years in state prison as a felony. Vehicular manslaughter for financial gain results in 4, 6, or 10 years in state prison.

Involuntary manslaughter is punishable by 2, 3, or 4 years in state prison, and a strike under California’s Three Strikes Law if a firearm was used. For voluntary manslaughter, the sentence ranges from 3 to 11 years in state prison.

Second-degree murder sentences include 15 years to life imprisonment, with specific conditions leading to life without parole for prior murder convictions. In cases of second-degree murder of a peace officer, the penalty is 25 years to life imprisonment or life without parole under certain circumstances. Second-degree murder involving shooting from a motor vehicle with intent to cause great bodily injury carries a sentence of 20 years to life imprisonment.

First-degree murder generally results in a sentence of 25 years to life imprisonment. Assault causing the death of a child under 8 years of age carries a sentence of 25 years to life imprisonment as well. First-degree murder that constitutes a hate crime or involves an operator or driver carries a life sentence without parole, with parole eligibility after 25 years for defendants under 18. First-degree murder with special circumstances may result in the death penalty or life without parole, with parole eligibility after 25 years for defendants under 18.

Colorado Murder Sentencing Guidelines

Second-degree murder convictions carry a sentence of 16 to 48 years in prison, followed by a mandatory parole period of 5 years. If the defendant was under 18 at the time of committing first-degree murder, they receive a life sentence with the possibility of parole after serving 40 years. In other first-degree murder cases, the convicted individual faces life imprisonment without the possibility of parole.

Connecticut Murder Sentencing Guidelines

Second-degree manslaughter convictions result in a maximum sentence of 10 years, with a minimum of 1 year if a firearm was used in the commission of the crime. First-degree manslaughter carries a sentence ranging from 1 to 20 years, which increases to 5 to 40 years if a firearm was involved. Murder convictions typically lead to a sentence of 25 to 60 years without parole. In cases involving murder with special circumstances, the defendant faces life imprisonment without the possibility of parole; however, individuals under 18 cannot be charged with murder with special circumstances.

Delaware Murder Sentencing Guidelines

Second-degree murder convictions carry a minimum sentence of 15 years and a maximum of life imprisonment without parole. For first-degree murder committed by defendants under 18, the sentencing range is 25 years to life, with the possibility of a sentence review after 30 years. In other first-degree murder cases, the convicted individual faces life imprisonment without the possibility of parole, capital punishment was outlawed in Delaware in 2016.

Florida Murder Sentencing Guidelines

Manslaughter convictions carry a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison, which increases to a maximum of 30 years if the offense was committed with the intent to facilitate or further terrorism. Aggravated manslaughter of a child results in a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison, which could be enhanced to life imprisonment if the offense had the intent to facilitate or further terrorism. For juveniles convicted of this offense with a terrorism-related intent, a judge sets a 40-year sentence, and they are eligible for a review after serving 25 years.

Second-degree murder carries a maximum sentence of life in prison or 40 years if life imprisonment is deemed inappropriate or the defendant was under 18. If a firearm was used in the crime, the minimum sentence is 25 years, while a minimum of 10 years applies under sentencing guidelines for individuals with a clean record.

First-degree murder convictions lead to either the death penalty (in cases with aggravating circumstances) or life imprisonment without parole. If the defendant was under 18, the judge sets a mandatory 40-year prison sentence with the possibility of a review after serving 25 years.

Georgia Murder Sentencing Guidelines

Involuntary manslaughter convictions result in a sentence ranging from 1 to 10 years in prison for a felony, or up to 1 year in county jail if considered a misdemeanor. Voluntary manslaughter carries a sentencing range of 1 to 20 years in prison.

Second-degree murder convictions lead to a prison sentence of 10 to 30 years. Felony murder is punishable by either life imprisonment without parole or life imprisonment with the possibility of parole eligibility after serving 30 years.

Malice murder convictions can result in the death penalty, life imprisonment without parole, or life imprisonment with the possibility of parole eligibility after serving 30 years.

Hawaii Murder Sentencing Guidelines

Second-degree murder convictions result in life imprisonment with the possibility of parole. Enhanced sentencing applies to repeat offenders as specified in HRS 706-606.5. First-degree murder convictions lead to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole. However, the governor may commute the sentence to life imprisonment with parole eligibility after serving 20 years. Juveniles convicted of first-degree murder are eligible for parole. Enhanced sentencing for repeat offenders is also applicable in first-degree murder cases, as outlined in HRS 706-606.5.

Idaho Murder Sentencing Guidelines

Second-degree murder convictions carry a minimum sentence of 10 years and a maximum of life imprisonment without parole. In cases of first-degree murder, the convicted individual may face the death penalty under aggravating circumstances, life imprisonment without the possibility of parole, or a life sentence with eligibility for parole after serving no less than 10 years.

Illinois Murder Sentencing Guidelines

Second-degree murder convictions result in a sentence ranging from 4 to 20 years, with up to 4 years being probational. Certain factors can increase the maximum sentence to 30 years, with up to 4 years remaining probational.

In the case of first-degree murder convictions, the sentence ranges from 20 to 60 years without parole. If a firearm was used in the commission of the crime, the sentence ranges from 45 years to life imprisonment, also without parole. Under certain aggravating circumstances, the sentence can be increased to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole.

Indiana Murder Sentencing Guidelines

Murder convictions carry a sentence ranging between 45 and 65 years. In cases involving murder with aggravating circumstances, the convicted individual may face either the death penalty or life imprisonment without parole. However, defendants under the age of 16 cannot be sentenced to life without parole.

Iowa Murder Sentencing Guidelines

Second-degree murder convictions result in a 50-year sentence with parole eligibility after serving 35 years. If the defendant was under 18 at the time of the crime, there is no minimum time required for parole eligibility. In cases of first-degree murder, the convicted individual faces life imprisonment without parole or life imprisonment with parole eligibility, with the latter option available only if the defendant was under 18 at the time of the offense.

Kansas Murder Sentencing Guidelines

For second-degree murder (unintentional), the sentence ranges from 9 to 41 years. In cases of second-degree murder (intentional), the sentence spans from 12.5 to 54 years.

Felony first-degree murder convictions result in life imprisonment with a minimum of 25 years, or 20 years if the crime was committed before July 1, 2014.

Premeditated first-degree murder committed before July 1, 2014, carries a sentence of life imprisonment with a minimum of 25 years or life with a minimum of 50 years, with the latter being imposed only if the judge finds compelling reasons warranting a harsher sentence.

For premeditated first-degree murder committed on or after July 1, 2014, the sentence is life imprisonment with a minimum of 50 years or life with a minimum of 25 years, with the more lenient option available only if the judge finds compelling reasons to do so.

Capital murder convictions may result in the death penalty, life imprisonment without parole, or life imprisonment with a minimum of 25 or 50 years, with the latter option available only if the defendant was under 18 at the time of the offense.

Kentucky Murder Sentencing Guidelines

Murder with aggravating circumstances can result in the death penalty, life imprisonment without parole, or life imprisonment with parole eligibility after serving 25 years, with the latter option available only if the defendant was under 18 at the time of the offense.

Murder without aggravating circumstances carries a sentence of life imprisonment with a minimum of 20 years, or a sentence ranging from 20 to 50 years.

For first-degree manslaughter convictions, the sentence ranges from 10 to 20 years imprisonment. In cases of second-degree manslaughter, the sentence ranges from five to ten years imprisonment.

Reckless homicide convictions result in a sentence ranging from one to five years imprisonment.

Louisiana Murder Sentencing Guidelines

Manslaughter convictions carry a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison, with parole eligibility after 25 years for defendants who were under 18 at the time of the offense.

Manslaughter of a child under 10 carries a sentence ranging from 10 to 40 years in prison without parole, with parole eligibility after 25 years for defendants who were under 18 at the time of the offense.

Second-degree murder convictions result in life imprisonment without parole, with the possibility of parole after 25 years for defendants who were under 18 at the time of the offense.

First-degree murder convictions can result in the death penalty or life imprisonment without parole for adults. For defendants who were under 18 at the time of the offense, the sentence is life imprisonment without parole or life with the possibility of parole after 25 years.

Maine Murder Sentencing Guidelines

Manslaughter convictions carry a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison.

Felony murder convictions carry a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison.

Murder convictions carry a sentence of life imprisonment without parole, or a minimum of 25 years in prison.

Maryland Murder Sentencing Guidelines

Involuntary manslaughter convictions carry a maximum sentence of 10 years, with up to 5 years of no parole.

Voluntary manslaughter convictions also carry a maximum sentence of 10 years, with up to 5 years of no parole.

Second-degree murder convictions carry a maximum sentence of 40 years, with up to 20 years of no parole.

First-degree murder convictions carry a sentence of life without parole, or life with parole eligibility after 20 years. The judge has the option to suspend part of the sentence.

Massachusetts Murder Sentencing

Second-degree murder convictions carry a sentence of life, with a minimum of 15-25 years. If the crime was committed before July 25, 2014, the minimum sentence is 15 years.

If the defendant was under 18, first-degree murder convictions carry a sentence of life with parole eligibility after 20-30 years.

First-degree murder convictions for adult defendants carry a sentence of life without parole.

Michigan Murder Sentencing Guidelines

In Michigan, Second Degree Murder carries a sentence of life, which is eligible for parole after 15 years. For offenses committed before October 1, 1992, the eligible period for parole is after 10 years.

First Degree Murder carries a life sentence without parole for adults. For juveniles, the judge may set a minimum term of between 25 and 40 years before parole eligibility with a maximum term of at least 60 years, provided that mitigating factors exist. NOTE: There is a bill that aims to remove Juvenile life without parole and shorten the minimum term of 25-40 years to 10 years, while keeping the maximum of 60 years.

Minnesota Murder Sentencing Guidelines

In Minnesota, the maximum sentence for second-degree manslaughter is 10 years in prison, with a 5-year minimum for those with a clean record. First-degree manslaughter carries a maximum sentence of 15 years, with a 7-10 year minimum for those with a clean record. Third-degree murder has a maximum sentence of 25 years, with a 12.5 year minimum for those with a clean record. For second-degree murder, the maximum sentence is 40 years in prison, or 12.5 years for a person with a clean record. If the murder was intentional, the sentence could be up to 25.5 years.

For first-degree murder, the sentence is life in prison with a minimum of 30 years, or 17 years if the crime was committed before August 1, 1989. If the murder was premeditated or involved rape, kidnapping, or terrorism, or if the victim was a law enforcement or prison officer, or if the defendant has one or more previous convictions for a “heinous crime,” then the sentence is life without parole. Defendants under 18 years old must serve 30 years before becoming eligible for parole, and for those who committed the crime before August 1, 1989, they must serve 17 years before becoming eligible for parole.

Source- Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines

Mississippi Murder Sentencing Guidelines

In Mississippi, the maximum sentence for manslaughter is 20 years in prison. For second degree murder, the maximum sentence is life imprisonment with the possibility of conditional release at age 65 and having served at least 15 years, or 20 to 40 years in prison. For first degree murder, the maximum sentence is life imprisonment with the same possibility of conditional release as second degree murder. Capital murder carries a sentence of death, life without parole, or life with the possibility of parole for defendants under 18 sentenced to life in prison, although this is not mandatory.

Missouri Murder Sentencing Guidelines

In Missouri, second-degree murder carries a sentence of 10 to 30 years in prison or life, with a minimum of 25.5 years to be served. For first-degree murder where the defendant was under 18 years old, the sentence ranges from 30 to 40 years in prison or life, with a minimum of 25 years, and any term of years for aggravating circumstances. First-degree murder carries a penalty of either death for aggravating circumstances or life without parole.

Montana Murder Sentencing Guidelines

In Montana, the maximum sentence for Negligent Homicide is 20 years in prison. For Mitigated Deliberate Homicide or Second-Degree Murder, the sentence can range from 2 to 40 years. The sentence for Deliberate Homicide or First-Degree Murder can be death for aggravating circumstances, life without parole, life with a minimum of 30 years, or 10 to 100 years. If the defendant was under 18 at the time of the offense, the only options for sentencing are life or 10 to 100 years. If the defendant is sentenced to 100 years, they will be eligible for parole.

Nebraska Murder Sentencing Guidelines

For Second Degree Murder in Nebraska, the mandatory sentencing ranges from a minimum of 20 years to a maximum of life without parole, with eligibility for parole if the defendant was under 18. First Degree Murder carries a mandatory sentence of death in cases involving aggravating circumstances, or life without parole, which is reviewed by the Nebraska State Parole Board. In cases where the defendant was under 18, the mandatory sentence can be 40 years to life.

Nevada Murder Sentencing Guidelines

Second Degree Murder in Nevada carries a sentence of life imprisonment with the possibility of parole after 10 years or 25 years with parole eligibility after 10 years.

First Degree Murder can result in death (for cases with aggravating circumstances), life imprisonment without parole, life with a minimum of 20 years, or 50 years with parole eligibility after 20 years. Juveniles cannot be sentenced to life imprisonment without parole, even in cases with more than one death. In such cases, the guidelines apply the same.

New Hampshire Murder Sentencing Guidelines

Negligent Homicide: The sentence for this offense is imprisonment for a term of not less than 3 1/2 years and not more than 7 years.

Causing or Aiding Suicide: The sentence for causing a suicide or suicide attempt is imprisonment for a term of up to seven years in prison. For aiding or assisting in a suicide or suicide attempt without causing the suicide or attempt, the sentence is up to one year in jail.

Manslaughter: The sentence for this offense is imprisonment for a term of not more than 30 years.

Second Degree Murder: The sentence for this offense is life with parole or any number of years. Typically the general sentence range in New Hampshire is 20 to 40 years.

First Degree Murder: The sentence for this offense is life without parole or life with parole. Note that this is only an option if the defendant was under 18.

Capital Murder: The sentence for this offense is life without parole or life with parole. Note that this is only an option if the defendant was under 18.

New Jersey Murder Sentencing Guidelines

New Jersey Murder convictions carry significant penalties, with a minimum sentence of 30 years and a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. In cases where aggravating circumstances are present, the convicted individual faces life without parole as their punishment. It is important to note that if the defendant was under 18 at the time of the crime, they must serve at least 30 years before being eligible for parole, and life without parole is the only sentencing option available to them in such circumstances.

New Mexico Murder Sentencing Guidelines

Involuntary manslaughter is a less severe form of homicide, and those convicted of this crime face a maximum sentence of 4 years in prison. Voluntary manslaughter, which is more serious, carries a maximum sentence of 6 years in prison. Second-degree murder, another level up in terms of severity, has a maximum prison sentence of 15 years.

First-degree murder, results in a life sentence with a minimum of 30 years served before parole eligibility. When aggravating circumstances are present in a first-degree murder case, the convicted individual may face life without parole or life with parole eligibility after 30 years. However, if the defendant was under 18 at the time of the crime, they may only become eligible for parole after serving a minimum of 30 years in prison.

New York Murder Sentencing Guidelines

Second-degree murder convictions result in a life sentence with a minimum term of 15 to 25 years before parole eligibility. First-degree murder, carries a sentence of life imprisonment with a minimum of 20 to 25 years served before parole eligibility or life without parole, depending on the specific circumstances of the case.

Aggravated murder, leads to a sentence of life without parole. In this case, the convicted individual will spend the rest of their life in prison without the possibility of release.

Note: Defendants under the age of 18 cannot be charged with first degree or aggravated murder.

North Carolina Murder Sentencing Guidelines

Involuntary manslaughter convictions carry a maximum sentence of 59 months, with a sentence of 10 to 20 months for those without a criminal record. Voluntary manslaughter has a maximum sentence of 204 months, and for individuals without a criminal record, the sentence ranges between 38 and 80 months.

Second-degree murder, when committed as an inherently dangerous act or by the unlawful distribution of certain illicit substances, has a maximum sentence of 484 months. For those without a criminal record, the sentence ranges from 94 to 196 months. In other cases of second-degree murder, the maximum sentence is life without parole, and for individuals without a criminal record, the sentence can range from 144 to 300 months.

First-degree murder convictions can result in a variety of sentences, including the death penalty if aggravating circumstances are present, life without parole, or life with parole eligibility after 25 years. The option for parole eligibility after 25 years is only available if the defendant was under 18 at the time of the crime.

North Dakota Murder Sentencing Guidelines

Manslaughter convictions carry a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison. For murder committed under “extreme emotional disturbance,” the maximum prison sentence is 20 years.

Murder convictions have various sentencing options, which include life without parole, life imprisonment with a minimum of 30 years served before parole eligibility, or any number of years determined by the court. It is important to note that defendants under the age of 18 cannot be sentenced to life without parole.

Ohio Murder Sentencing Guidelines

Ohio has different sentencing guidelines for those under the age of 18:

1. For one or more homicide offenses, the maximum parole eligibility is set at 25 years.
2. If a defendant is the principal offender in at least two of multiple homicide offenses, the maximum parole eligibility increases to 30 years.
3. In cases of aggravated homicide, which is considered the purposeful killing of three or more people when the defendant is the principal offender in each offense, or when murder (second-degree murder) or aggravated murder (first-degree murder) is associated with terrorism, the maximum parole eligibility is also 30 years.

For defendants over the age of 18 the sentencing guidelines are as follows:

• Involuntary Manslaughter: If the underlying offense is a felony, the mandatory sentencing ranges from 4.5 to 16.5 years, with adjustments for crimes committed before 2021 (3 to 11 years) or before 2019 (3 to 10 years). If the underlying offense is a misdemeanor, the mandatory sentencing ranges from 9 months to 3 years.
• Voluntary Manslaughter: Mandatory sentencing ranges from 4.5 to 16.5 years, with adjustments for crimes committed before 2021 (3 to 11 years) or before 2019 (3 to 10 years).
• Murder (Second-Degree Murder): Mandatory sentencing is life imprisonment with parole eligibility after 15 years.
• Murder (Second-Degree Murder) involving a victim under 13 years old and committed with a sexual motivation: Mandatory sentencing is life imprisonment with parole eligibility after 30 years.
• Murder (Second-Degree Murder) committed with a sexual motivation and the defendant has a sexually violent predator specification, or involving terrorism: Mandatory sentencing is life without parole, or eligible for parole after 30 years if the defendant was under 18.
• Aggravated Murder (First-Degree Murder): Mandatory sentencing is life without parole or life with parole eligibility after 20, 25, or 30 years. If the victim was under 13 years old and the murder was committed with a sexual motivation, the minimum sentence is life with parole eligibility after 30 years.
• Aggravated Murder (First-Degree Murder) with capital specification for certain aggravating factors such as special victims, murder-for-hire, multiple victims, witness as victim, or committed in the course of another serious felony offense: Mandatory sentencing options include death, life without parole, life with parole eligibility after 25 or 30 years. If the victim was under 13 years old and the murder was committed with a sexual motivation, the minimum sentence is life with parole eligibility after 30 years.
• Aggravated Murder (First-Degree Murder) involving terrorism or committed with a sexual motivation and the defendant has a sexually violent predator specification: Mandatory sentencing is death or life without parole, with parole eligibility after 30 years if the defendant was under 18.

Oklahoma Murder Sentencing Guidelines

Second-degree murder convictions carry a sentence of life imprisonment with the possibility of parole, or a prison term not less than 10 years.

First-degree murder convictions can result in various sentences, depending on the circumstances. In cases with aggravating circumstances, the death penalty may be imposed. Other sentencing options include life without parole or life imprisonment with parole eligibility after 38 years. It is important to note that a portion of the sentence can be suspended at the judge’s discretion.

Oregon Murder Sentencing Guidelines

Second-degree murder convictions result in a life sentence, with a minimum of 25 years for adults and 15 years for defendants who were under 18 at the time of the crime.

First-degree murder convictions carry a sentence of life without parole, or life imprisonment with a minimum of 30 years for adults. If the defendant was under 18 at the time of the crime, the minimum sentence is 15 years, and life imprisonment is the only sentencing option.

Aggravated murder convictions can lead to various sentences, including the death penalty, life without parole, or life imprisonment with a minimum of 30 years for adults. If the defendant was under 18 at the time of the crime, the minimum sentence is 15 years, and life imprisonment is the only sentencing option.

Pennsylvania Murder Sentencing Guidelines

Third-degree murder convictions carry a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison, with parole eligibility not exceeding more than half the maximum sentence.

For second-degree murder, the sentencing varies depending on the defendant’s age at the time of the crime:

1. If the defendant was under 15, the sentence is life imprisonment with parole eligibility after no less than 20 years.
2. If the defendant was between 15 and 17, the sentence is life imprisonment with parole eligibility after no less than 30 years.
3. In other cases, the sentence is life without parole, with eligibility for commutation by the governor if there is a unanimous recommendation by the Board of Pardons.

For first-degree murder, the sentencing also varies depending on the defendant’s age:

1. If the defendant was under 15, the sentence is life imprisonment with parole eligibility after no less than 25 years.
2. If the defendant was between 15 and 17, the sentence is life imprisonment with parole eligibility after no less than 35 years.
3. In other cases, the sentence can be the death penalty (if aggravating circumstances are present) or life without parole. Eligibility for commutation by the governor is possible if there is a unanimous recommendation by the Board of Pardons.

Rhode Island Murder Sentencing Guidelines

Second-degree murder convictions result in a life sentence, with parole eligibility after 25 years, or 20 years if the crime was committed before July 1, 2015. Alternatively, the sentence can be no less than 10 years, with parole eligibility after serving half the sentence.

First-degree murder convictions carry a sentence of life without parole, or life imprisonment with parole eligibility after 25 years, or 20 years if the crime was committed before July 1, 2015.

South Carolina Murder Sentencing Guidelines

Involuntary manslaughter convictions carry a maximum sentence of 5 years in prison. Voluntary manslaughter sentences range from 2 to 30 years in prison.

Murder convictions can result in various sentences depending on the circumstances of the case. In cases with aggravating circumstances, the death penalty may be imposed. Other sentencing options include life without parole, or a prison term of no less than 30 years.

South Dakota Murder Sentencing Guidelines

First-degree manslaughter convictions carry a maximum sentence of life without parole. However, defendants under the age of 18 cannot be sentenced to life without parole.

Second-degree murder convictions result in a life sentence without parole. If the defendant was under 18 at the time of the crime, they are sentenced to any number of years determined by the court.

First-degree murder convictions can lead to various sentences depending on the circumstances of the case. In cases with aggravating circumstances, the death penalty may be imposed. Alternatively, the sentence can be life without parole. If the defendant was under 18 at the time of the crime, they are sentenced to any number of years determined by the court.

Tennessee Murder Sentencing Guidelines

Second-degree murder sentences vary depending on the offender’s range classification:

1. Range I offender: 15–25 years
2. Range II offender: 25–40 years
3. Range III offender: 40–60 years

Sentence Ranges – Tennessee

For first-degree murder without aggravating circumstances, the sentence is life imprisonment with a minimum of 51 years. If the defendant was under 18 at the time of the crime, they are eligible for parole after 20 years.

First-degree murder with aggravating circumstances carries a range of sentencing options, including the death penalty, life without parole, or life imprisonment with a minimum of 51 years. If the defendant was under 18 at the time of the crime, they are eligible for parole after 30 years, and life imprisonment is the only sentencing option available.

Source – Tennessee Code Section 39-13-202

Texas Murder Sentencing Guidelines

For second-degree murder convictions, the sentence ranges from 5 to 99 years. Defendants are eligible for parole after serving half the sentence or 30 years, whichever is less. Alternatively, the sentence can be life imprisonment with a minimum of 30 years.

Capital murder, or first-degree murder, convictions result in either the death penalty or life without parole. If the defendant was under 18 at the time of the crime or has been sentenced to life before September 1, 2005, they are eligible for parole after serving 40 years.

Source

Utah Murder Sentencing Guidelines

Utah is unique in that it doesn’t have degrees of homicide. There are only two charges – Murder and Aggravated Murder.

Murder convictions carry a sentence ranging from 15 years to life imprisonment.

Aggravated murder convictions can lead to various sentences, including the death penalty, life without parole, or a prison term of 25 years to life. It is important to note that defendants under the age of 18 cannot be sentenced to life without parole.

Vermont Murder Sentencing Guidelines

In Vermont, sentencing for second-degree murder varies depending on the presence of mitigating or aggravating factors:

1. If mitigating factors outweigh any aggravating factors, the sentence is life imprisonment with a minimum of 10–20 years.
2. In standard cases, the sentence is life imprisonment with a minimum of 20 years.
3. If aggravating factors outweigh any mitigating factors, the sentence is life imprisonment with a minimum of any number of years (but not less than 20 years), which is only an option for defendants under 18, or life without parole.

First-degree murder sentencing also varies based on mitigating or aggravating factors:

1. If mitigating factors outweigh any aggravating factors, the sentence is life imprisonment with a minimum of 15–35 years.
2. In standard cases, the sentence is life imprisonment with a minimum of 35 years.
3. If aggravating factors outweigh any mitigating factors, the sentence is life imprisonment with a minimum of any number of years (but not less than 35 years), which is only an option for defendants under 18, or life without parole.

Aggravated murder convictions carry a sentence of life without parole. However, if the defendant was under 18 at the time of the crime, they are eligible for parole after serving 35 years.

Virginia Murder Sentencing Guidelines

Second-degree murder and felony murder convictions carry a sentence ranging from 5 to 40 years.

First-degree murder convictions result in a sentence between 20 years and life imprisonment. If the crime was committed before January 1, 1995, parole eligibility for life sentences is 15 years or 20 years if sentenced to more than one life sentence. If the victim was under the age of 8, parole eligibility is 25 years. Prisoners become eligible for geriatric parole when they turn 60.

Aggravated murder convictions lead to life imprisonment without parole. Geriatric parole is not available for these prisoners. However, if the defendant was under 18 at the time of the crime, they can be eligible for parole. Judges have the discretion to suspend a portion of the life sentence, except in cases where the victim was a police officer.

Washington Murder Sentencing Guidelines

Washington state is unique in that it utilizes sentence enhancers and separates defendants into 3 age categories for first-degree murder sentencing. Under 18, 18-20, and 21+.

Sentence enhancers for various convictions include the use of a firearm, which adds 5 years to the sentence or 10 years for subsequent convictions; the use of another deadly weapon, which adds 2 years or 4 years for subsequent convictions; and sexual motivation, which adds 2 years or 4 years for subsequent convictions.

Second-degree murder sentencing differs depending on the defendant’s age:

1. If the defendant is under 18, the maximum sentence is life with the possibility of parole after 20 years (10-18 years is the standard sentence without a criminal record).
2. If the defendant is 18 or older, the maximum sentence is life without parole (10-18 years is the standard sentence without a criminal record).

First-degree murder sentencing also varies based on the defendant’s age:

1. If the defendant is under 18, the maximum sentence is life with the possibility of parole after 20 years (20-27 years is the standard sentence without a criminal record).
2. If the defendant is 18 or older, the mandatory minimum sentence is 20 years, with a maximum of life without parole (20-27 years is the standard sentence without a criminal record).

Aggravated first-degree murder sentencing depends on the defendant’s age:

1. If the defendant is under 18, the mandatory minimum sentence is 25 years, with a maximum of life and the possibility of parole after 25 years.
2. If the defendant is between 18 and 20 years old, the mandatory minimum sentence is 25 years, with a maximum of life without parole.
3. If the defendant is 21 or older, the sentence is life without parole.

West Virginia Murder Sentencing Guidelines

Second-degree murder convictions carry a sentence ranging from 10 to 40 years. For first-degree murder convictions, the sentences can be life without parole or life imprisonment with a minimum of 15 years served.

Wisconsin Murder Sentencing Guidelines

First-degree reckless homicide or second-degree intentional homicide convictions result in a sentence ranging from 15 to 60 years. In the case of first-degree intentional homicide, the sentences can be life without parole or life imprisonment with a minimum of no less than 20 years served.

Wyoming Murder Sentencing Guidelines

The state of Wyoming has its own laws and penalties for the different degrees of murder.

In Wyoming, first-degree murder is punishable by the death penalty, life imprisonment without the possibility of parole, or life imprisonment with the possibility of parole after a minimum of 25 years.

Second-degree murder is punishable by a prison sentence of 20 years to life, while voluntary manslaughter carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison.

Manslaughter carries with it a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.

Additional Info

Shortest Murder Sentences by State

The minimum sentence for murder can vary widely depending on the state and the specific circumstances of the crime. In Arizona, for example, negligent homicide carries a minimum sentence of one year, while in Alabama, the minimum sentence for manslaughter is two years. In Illinois, second-degree murder carries a minimum sentence of four years, and in Arkansas, the minimum sentence for first-degree murder is 10 years. It’s important to note that these are minimum sentences and that the actual penalty for a murder conviction can be significantly more severe. Additionally, the precise definitions and penalties for murder and other homicide charges can vary widely from state to state, so it’s important to consult with a qualified criminal defense attorney to understand the specific penalties associated with these charges in your state. A criminal defense attorney can help you understand your legal options, build a strong defense, and work to minimize the potential consequences of a conviction.

Longest Murder Sentences by State

In the United States, the death penalty is still a legal punishment in some states, while others have abolished it. In states that have the death penalty, it is typically reserved for the most serious and heinous crimes, such as premeditated first-degree murder or murders committed during the commission of other serious felonies.

Life imprisonment without parole is another maximum sentence option for murder in many jurisdictions. This sentence means that the convicted individual will spend the rest of their life in prison with no opportunity for release.

For second-degree or third-degree murder, the maximum sentences may be lower, often involving lengthy prison terms but not necessarily the death penalty or life imprisonment without parole.

It is important to note that sentencing guidelines and maximum penalties for murder can vary from one country or jurisdiction to another. For accurate information on maximum sentences for murder in a particular jurisdiction, consult an attorney or legal expert familiar with the local laws.

What is Homicide?

A homicide is a broad term encompassing any killing of another person by an individual. This broad term covers both intentional and unintentional killing which means that all murders are homicides, but not all homicides are murders.

What is Manslaughter?

Manslaughter occurs when there is an unintentional killing of another person. A manslaughter conviction results in much less serious criminal charges than a murder charge. Within the category of manslaughter there are 3 common subcategories – Vehicular, Voluntary, and Involuntary Manslaughter.

• Voluntary Manslaughter: Typically the most serious of the 3, a voluntary manslaughter charge involves intent, but not planning. Most often voluntary manslaughter occurs in crimes that are in the ‘heat of passion’. The intent was to cause harm/murder the other person, but the act was not premeditated (other than in that moment). The difference between a case of second-degree murder and one of voluntary manslaughter comes down to whether an ordinary person would have had a similar response. Killing someone in a barfight over a perceived slight is much more likely to result in a second-degree murder charge than if that same death was the result of an infidelity discovered in the moment.

“The killing of a human being in which the offender acted during the heat of passion, under circumstances that would cause a reasonable person to become emotionally or mentally disturbed to the point that they cannot reasonably control their emotions”

• Involuntary Manslaughter: This occurs when someones death is the result of gross negligence or conscious disregard for life. The intention in an involuntary manslaughter case was never to have someone die, but it was a result of cutting corners/disregarding safety/taking unneccesary risks/lacking the proper credentials. Examples of involuntary manslaughter include (but aren’t limited to) are unlawfully practicing medicine, accidental discharge, unsafe work conditions, selling tainted drugs, and not controlling an animal with a history of attacking people.

Note that intoxication in most states is a negligent act. Meaning it is not a defense for manslaughter.

• Vehicular Manslaughter: If you need state-specific advice on vehicular homicide, we recommend going through state hit and run laws here. This type of manslaughter occurs when a person’s death is a result of a drivers gross negligence. Examples include driving under the influence, falling asleep at the wheel, ignoring traffic signs, safety violations, and road rage resulting in the death of another human being. State laws on vehicular manslaughter vary. In some states, it is a felony, and in others, a misdemeanor.

Learn more about voluntary and involuntary manslaughter.

Consult a criminal defense attorney to find the best defense for you or your loved one.

• How Long is a Life Sentence? State by State Overview
• How Many Years for First Degree Murder?
• How Many Years for Second Degree Murder?
• Manslaughter Laws Explained: What is the difference between first, second, and third degree manslaughter?
• Murder Sentencing Guidelines – Minimum to Maximum for Every State
• What is 2nd Degree Murder?
• What is the difference between first-degree, second-degree, and third-degree murder?
• What is the Difference Between Murder, Homicide, and Manslaughter?