Manslaughter Attorney in Newport News

Penalties and Collateral Consequences of a Manslaughter Conviction in Virginia

A conviction for manslaughter carries consequences that are swift, severe, and long-lasting.

Direct Penalties and Sentencing

Both Voluntary and Involuntary Manslaughter are classified as a Class 5 Felony in Virginia.

• Incarceration: The punishment ranges from one to ten years in a state correctional facility, or, at the jury or court's discretion, confinement in jail for not more than 12 months.
• Fines: A fine of up to $2,500.
• Aggravated Involuntary Manslaughter: This crime elevates the stakes significantly. It is punishable by a term of imprisonment of not less than one nor more than 20 years, with a mandatory minimum term of one year of active imprisonment.

As your manslaughter attorney in Newport News, our primary goal is to prevent a felony conviction entirely or, failing that, to achieve a reduction to a misdemeanor or a sentence limited to local jail time instead of state prison.

Lifetime Collateral Consequences

A felony conviction for manslaughter triggers the loss of core rights and opportunities:

• Loss of Civil Rights: You will lose the right to vote, the right to serve on a jury, and the Second Amendment right to possess firearms. Restoring these rights is a lengthy and uncertain legal process.
• Professional and Employment Barriers: Being a convicted felon, especially for a violent crime, severely restricts your ability to secure employment or maintain professional licenses. This is particularly relevant in the Newport News area, where many jobs require security clearances or involve positions of trust.
• Immigration Status: A homicide conviction is often classified as an aggravated felony under federal law, leading to mandatory deportation for non-citizens.
• Financial Liability: In addition to criminal penalties, a conviction almost always leads to a separate, multi-million-dollar wrongful death civil lawsuit, compounding the financial disaster.

The Virginia Criminal Defense Process for Homicide Charges

Our experience as former prosecutors means we guide your defense with precision, knowing exactly what steps the Commonwealth will take next.

• Immediate Investigation and Preservation of Evidence: Upon engaging our firm, we secure the crime scene or accident site (if possible), preserve evidence from your vehicle or property, and interview witnesses before police can secure biased statements. For vehicular manslaughter, we immediately hire accident reconstructionists to challenge the police's version of events.
• Challenging Probable Cause at the Preliminary Hearing: This hearing is the most crucial stage outside of a jury trial. We use our detailed understanding of homicide case law to argue that the prosecution has not established probable cause for the malice element required for murder, or the gross negligence required for involuntary manslaughter, aiming for the charges to be dismissed or reduced before they reach the Circuit Court.
• Extensive Discovery and Motion Practice: We meticulously analyze every piece of evidence, including 911 calls, body camera footage, forensic reports, and toxicology results. As former prosecutors, we know where corners are cut and where constitutional rights are violated, allowing us to file aggressive Motions to Suppress illegally obtained statements, blood tests, or search evidence.
• Trial Strategy Focused on Mental State: When we go to trial, our focus is singular: to prove that the defendant lacked the required malice for murder and, in manslaughter cases, lacked the criminal negligence required for a conviction. We use witness testimony and expert opinions to paint a picture of non-criminal negligence, self-defense, or accident.

What Sets Our Manslaughter Criminal Defense Attorneys Apart

A manslaughter charge in Virginia carries serious, lasting consequences. We understand the criminal justice system in Newport News and have represented clients through local courts for years. Our commitment to personalized service means you receive direct, candid communication and knowledgeable guidance whenever you need it. Because Attorney Ehrenworth previously worked as a prosecutor, our defense team anticipates prosecutorial strategies and adapts your defense plan proactively.

Attorney Scott Ehrenworth’s background as a former prosecutor in the region shapes how we approach each case. This experience means our team recognizes common prosecution tactics and actively prepares responses. With in-depth knowledge of Newport News legal practices, we position your case to address these unique factors while keeping you informed and involved at every turn.

• Background as a former prosecutor: We bring insight from both sides of the courtroom to your manslaughter defense.
• Decades of experience: Our legal perspective helps us build sound defense strategies tailored to state and local law.
• After-hours availability: We offer appointments outside of regular business hours for your convenience and peace of mind.
• Superb Avvo Rating: Our reputation for client satisfaction shows our commitment to dependable counsel during high-stakes cases.
• Tailored legal strategies: We explain every option and help you make informed decisions about your legal defense.

Every detail matters if you face manslaughter charges. Our attorneys carefully review every element of your case to protect your future. We also understand the unique pressures of criminal defense in Newport News and stay accessible for urgent questions or developments. By combining deep local knowledge with years of experience, we provide the support and preparation you need to move forward confidently.

Benefits of Experienced, Local Representation

Our clients value the direct, understandable communication we provide at every stage. We break down complex legal concepts and Virginia statutes into language that makes sense for you and your loved ones. People facing manslaughter charges in Newport News often feel overwhelmed by the process. Our role as your criminal defense attorneys is to clarify those challenges and help you focus on making informed decisions.

Our deep roots in the Hampton Roads area give us a real advantage. We understand the expectations of local judges and the styles of area prosecutors. This homegrown insight helps us prepare your defense for potential moves by the prosecution and gives you honest, practical guidance based on our real courtroom experience.

No matter when you learn about the charges against you, our team helps you navigate every step of this challenging time. Our priority is to ensure you always know your rights, options, and probable outcomes—so you can confidently plan your next move with a trusted manslaughter defense attorney by your side.

Protect Your Future—Contact a Newport News Manslaughter Defense Lawyer Today

Seeking guidance from a trusted manslaughter defense attorney in Newport News right away gives you a crucial advantage. The earlier you connect with a criminal defense attorney who understands the Newport News court system, the more confidently you can make decisions about your case, your future, and your family’s well-being. With the right legal support, you don’t have to interpret legal documents or court procedures alone. You gain clarity—and a clear direction forward—during an uncertain time.

Turn to Ehrenworth Law, PLLC for reliable advocacy, flexible appointments, and candid advice when you need it most. Our years of experience, former prosecutor’s perspective, and commitment to honest communication set us apart when it matters most. Call (757) 663-4477 to schedule a confidential consultation with a dedicated manslaughter lawyer in Newport News and start developing your defense.