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Criminal charges

aiding a suicide

Most states have laws against aiding a suicide or assisted suicide. These laws are usually found in the state’s statutes, and sometimes in the state’s court opinions or case law (common law). The severity level of these crimes range from misdemeanors to felonies.

In New York, assisting in a suicide is considered a criminal offense. Under New York Penal Law Section 120.30, a person is guilty of promoting a suicide attempt when he or she intentionally causes or aids another person to attempt suicide. This is classified as a class E felony. Furthermore, if the assistance results in the actual suicide of the person, the charge escalates to manslaughter in the second degree under Section 125.15, which is a class C felony. New York does not have a Death with Dignity statute or similar laws that allow for medically assisted suicide, which means that any form of assisted suicide, regardless of the circumstances or the consent of the individual who wishes to die, is illegal in the state. These laws are reflective of the state's interest in preserving life and preventing undue influence or coercion in the decision to end one's life.

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Michelle Carter and the Death of Conrad Roy

In a case that shocked the nation, Michelle Carter was charged for encouraging her boyfriend's suicide via text. People still have questions — and opinions.

State Statutes

New-York State Code

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