SentenceCalc

Second-Degree Murder Sentence Calculator

This page covers cases where a person killed someone on purpose or with extreme recklessness, but unplanned. Federal sentences for second-degree murder are calculated under §2A1.2 of the Sentencing Guidelines, which starts at offense level 38 and adds levels for the facts of the case. At the starting level alone, someone with no criminal history points who pleads guilty scores 168–210 months under the guidelines.

Verified Checked against the manual text in at least five AI-assisted review rounds. Not yet reviewed by an attorney. Guidelines Manual effective November 1, 2025Updated October 4, 2026

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Starting level and typical ranges

These ranges use the starting level alone, before any adjustments, for someone with no criminal record unless the column says otherwise. Most real cases add levels.

Starting pointLevelTrialGuilty pleaPlea + zero-pointCategory IV, plea
Second-degree murder, the starting point38235–293 months168–210 monthsn/a235–293 months

The 2-level zero-point reduction is not available for this kind of offense (§4C1.1).

Important details

  • Attempted murder is covered by §2A2.1, and conspiracy or solicitation to commit murder by §2A1.5, so the usual 3-level attempt reduction is not used here.
  • The calculator does not apply mandatory minimum sentences set by statute for this offense. If the statute of conviction requires one and it is higher than the range shown, the minimum controls; check the statute or ask a lawyer.

Frequently asked questions

What is the base offense level for second-degree murder?

The guideline for second-degree murder is §2A1.2 of the federal Sentencing Guidelines. Its starting level is 38, before any adjustments.

What is the guideline range for second-degree murder with no criminal history points and a guilty plea?

Using the starting level alone, a person with no criminal history points who pleads guilty scores 168–210 months (14 years to 17 years, 6 months). Adjustments such as role in the offense or obstruction can change the level, and the judge can sentence outside the range.

Is probation possible for second-degree murder?

Not under the guidelines. Even at the starting level with a guilty plea the range is in Zone D, where the minimum must be served in prison, though a judge may vary below it.

Is the calculator accurate for second-degree murder?

It follows §2A1.2 of the Guidelines Manual effective November 1, 2025. It passed 5 review rounds, each comparing every number, rule and label with the manual text, and its last round found nothing to correct. Those reviews were done with AI tools, not by lawyers, and it has not yet been reviewed by an attorney, so mistakes are possible. The guidelines are advisory, and a lawyer who knows the case can tell you what actually applies.