Manslaughter Lawyer Arlington County — Defending Against Involuntary Manslaughter & Negligent Homicide Charges
Involuntary manslaughter in Arlington County is a Class 5 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-36, punishable by 1 to 10 years in prison. A negligent homicide lawyer Arlington County can challenge the prosecution’s claim of criminal negligence. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for these serious charges. Contact a manslaughter lawyer Arlington County at 703-589-9250 for a 24/7 consultation.
Virginia Manslaughter Laws & Penalties
Manslaughter in Virginia involves the unlawful killing of another person without malice aforethought. It is distinct from murder, which requires malice. The two primary forms are voluntary and involuntary manslaughter, with involuntary manslaughter being more common in cases arising from accidents or reckless conduct. The specific statute governing involuntary manslaughter is Va. Code § 18.2-36.
Last verified: April 2026 | Arlington County General District Court & Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience. We understand that a manslaughter charge is a life-altering event, and we build defenses focused on the specific facts of your case in Arlington County.
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code § 18.2-36 (Involuntary Manslaughter) – Official Virginia statute.
- Arlington County Circuit Court – Official court website for felony trials.
Arlington County Court Process for Manslaughter Charges
An involuntary manslaughter defense lawyer Arlington County must handle a two-tier court process. The case begins at the Arlington County General District Court (1425 N. Courthouse Rd) for a preliminary hearing to determine probable cause. If the judge finds probable cause, the case is certified to the Arlington County Circuit Court for a jury trial. Prosecutors must prove criminal negligence—a reckless disregard for human life—beyond a reasonable doubt.
- Arrest & Initial Appearance: You will be arraigned in General District Court, where the charge is formally read.
- Preliminary Hearing: Your attorney can cross-examine the state’s witnesses to challenge the evidence of criminal negligence.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: If certified, you will be re-arraigned in Circuit Court and enter a plea.
- Discovery & Motions: Your lawyer will file motions to suppress evidence and challenge the prosecution’s theory.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Most cases are resolved through negotiation, but we prepare every case for trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing arguments focus on mitigation to minimize prison time.
Potential Penalties for Manslaughter in Arlington County
In Arlington County, involuntary manslaughter is a Class 5 felony carrying 1 to 10 years in prison, or at the jury’s discretion, up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Involuntary Manslaughter (Va. Code § 18.2-36) | Class 5 Felony | 1–10 years in prison (or up to 12 months in jail at jury discretion) | Up to $2,500 | Driver’s license revocation possible if vehicle involved | Permanent felony record, loss of professional licenses, firearm rights, immigration consequences |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Manslaughter Defense
With a foundation built in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings a formidable combination of experience and insight to manslaughter cases. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, Bryan Block, whose 15 years of law enforcement experience provide an unparalleled understanding of accident investigation protocols and how the state builds its case. We have documented over 4,739 case results firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. In Arlington County, we have secured dismissals and favorable reductions in serious criminal matters.
Matthew Greene, Senior Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. 30+ years criminal defense. Death penalty certified (formerly). View Matthew Greene’s Profile
Case Results in Arlington County
Our firm has a documented record of achieving positive results for clients in Arlington County courts. While every case is unique, our approach is consistently thorough. For example, we have successfully argued for the dismissal of charges where the element of criminal negligence was not met. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, provides strategic oversight on complex cases. His multi-state practice and experience amending Virginia law bring a high level of experience to case strategy.
Manslaughter Defense Lawyer Near Arlington County, VA
Our Arlington location is strategically positioned to serve clients facing charges at the Arlington County Courthouse. We represent individuals from Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719
Arlington, VA 22209
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Manslaughter Lawyer Arlington County FAQ
What is the difference between murder and manslaughter in Virginia?
Murder requires malice aforethought, while manslaughter does not. Involuntary manslaughter involves an accidental killing that results from criminal negligence or reckless conduct, not an intent to kill.
What does “criminal negligence” mean in an involuntary manslaughter case?
It means conduct that is so reckless or careless that it shows a blatant disregard for human life. A negligent homicide lawyer Arlington County fights the prosecution’s attempt to prove this high standard by presenting alternative explanations for the accident.
Can I go to jail for a car accident where someone died?
Yes, if the Commonwealth’s Attorney charges you with involuntary manslaughter and proves criminal negligence. Not every fatal accident leads to charges, but if it does, you need an immediate and strong defense from a manslaughter lawyer Arlington County.
What are the defenses to an involuntary manslaughter charge?
Common defenses include lack of criminal negligence (the death was a true accident), challenging the causation link between your actions and the death, or presenting evidence of a superseding intervening cause. Each defense depends heavily on the specific facts.
Should I talk to the police if I’m involved in a fatal accident?
No. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Politely decline to give a statement until you have consulted with a manslaughter lawyer. Anything you say can be used to construct a case of criminal negligence against you.
Internal Resources: For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page, or learn about related services like Arlington County DUI defense. We also serve neighboring areas like Alexandria.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.