
MANSLAUGHTER
Manslaughter Charges Demand a Proven Defense — Trust 50+ Years of Trial Experience
Charged with Manslaughter in Virginia? (Va. Code § 18.2-35 and § 18.2-36.1)
Manslaughter refers to the unlawful killing of another person without premeditation. It is divided into two categories:
Voluntary manslaughter: An intentional act committed in the heat of passion, often provoked.
Involuntary manslaughter: Unintentional killing resulting from reckless or criminally negligent conduct—commonly charged in DUI-related fatalities.
Penalties:
Both types are Class 5 felonies, punishable by up to 10 years in prison and fines up to $2,500.
DUI manslaughter carries enhanced penalties under § 18.2-36.1 and may include mandatory minimum prison time.
At Battlefield Law Group, our attorneys bring over 50 years of combined trial experience to the table. Our Partner, Steven L. Duckett, Jr., Esq., has handled numerous high-profile manslaughter and homicide cases over his 25+ year career. We know the science behind accident reconstruction, blood alcohol content (BAC) testing, and how to challenge key evidence and assumptions made by prosecutors.
Statistic: DUI-related manslaughter remains a leading cause of vehicular homicide prosecutions in Virginia. In 2023, over 240 fatal crashes involved alcohol-impaired drivers, according to the DMV.
Our team takes an aggressive and personalized approach to defending your case. We understand the legal and emotional toll these charges carry, and we’re here to protect your rights every step of the way.
Bilingual Legal Support We serve a large Spanish-speaking client base and have full-time bilingual staff to ensure every client understands their legal options.
Facing manslaughter charges? Contact Battlefield Law Group today to schedule your consultation.
CONTACT BATTLEFIELD LAW GROUP, PLLC

Areas of Practice
Our trial attorneys know Virginia law and understand how tough prosecutors can be. We make sure your voice is heard, your rights are protected, and your future is defended. With aggressive defense strategies tailored to your case, our mission is simple: to fight for the best possible outcome for you.
SERVING ALL COUNTIES IN NORTHERN VIRGINIA
Prince William | Fairfax | Culpepper | Fauquier | Stafford | Loudoun
Battlefield Law Group – Trusted Criminal & DUI Defense in Northern Virginia
Located in Old Town Manassas, Virginia, Battlefield Law Group is a trusted defense firm proudly serving clients across Northern Virginia. With a commitment to personalized attention and skilled representation, our experienced attorneys practice in a wide range of areas including: criminal defense, DUI/DWI, traffic tickets, reckless driving, protective orders, and much more... We are honored to assist individuals and families in the following counties: Prince William, Fairfax, Loudoun, Fauquier, and Stafford. Whether you’re navigating a complex legal issue or seeking guidance through a challenging time, Battlefield Law Group is here to provide strong advocacy and compassionate support every step of the way.
MEET THE TEAM
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Nicole H. Naum, Esq.
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Steven L. Duckett, Jr.,Esq.
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Lili M. O'Connell, Esq.
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Sarah Penone
SENIOR LEGAL ASSISTANT
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Jenifer Turcios Hernandez
CLIENT INTAKE SPECIALIST
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Nidia Hernandez
LEGAL ASSISTANT
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Melissa Portillo
LEGAL ASSISTANT