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Virginia Homicide Attorney

If you are suspected of involvement in an altercation resulted in the death of another person in Virginia, there is a strong possibility that you will face a serious criminal offense. Whenever a person is killed, the facts and circumstances surrounding the death can lead to a number of different charges. In Virginia, charges for crimes of homicide may include different levels of murder, voluntary manslaughter, involuntary manslaughter or DWI manslaughter. You should consult with an experienced Virginia homicide lawyer soon if you have been arrested for any crime of homicide. In some cases, even the least serious crimes may result in long-term imprisonment. However, an increase in a homicide offense further increases prison time.

Most homicide cases proceed to trial because both the defense and prosecution have a tremendous amount at stake. Therefore, you will want a criminal defense lawyer in Virginia who is not only familiar with state laws, but one with extensive trial experience. This can help you have confidence that your attorney is ready to fight to protect your rights in court.

Elements of Murder

In general, the legal definition of murder is intentionally causing the death of another person with malice aforethought. The act can be towards one person but if another person falls victim to the crime, the actor can still be charged under the doctrine of transferred intent.

Moreover, a person may engage in reckless conduct that increases the risk of death and ultimately causes another person to die. Acts of “felony murder” may also occur during the commission of another crime such as kidnapping, arson, robbery, rape or burglary.

Proof that the victim has died and that the death resulted from a wound from the accused leads to murder charges. Other proof elements can vary based on the type of charge committed and can be addressed with the assistance of a Northern Virginia homicide attorney.

Second Degree Murder

In the Commonwealth of Virginia, second-degree murder charges, according to VA Code Section 18.2-32 is unlawfully killing another person with malice forethought. Proving intent is not required for a second-degree murder charge; behavior that is deemed extreme recklessness is sufficient. A person may receive between five and 40 years in prison from a guilty verdict of second-degree murder.

How is First Degree Murder Defined by Virginia Law?

Murder charges may elevate to first degree when a person uses poison, lays in wait, starves or imprisons his or her victim. Basically, behavior that is deliberate or premeditated and causes a person’s death receives a Class 2 felony first-degree murder charge. Punishment for this crime may receive a sentence 20 years to life plus a fine up to $100,000.

Capital Murder

VA Code Section 18.2-31 describes capital murder as a Class 1 felony where the killing of a person was willful, deliberate and premeditated. The act includes, but is not limited to, murder-for-hire, abduction, during the commission of a robbery or rape. Killing a public service official such as a fire marshal or a law enforcement officer may also receive capital murder charges. The accused may receive life in prison or a death sentence. Like first degree murder, the fine for capital murder is up to $100,000.

Felony Murder

When a death occurs while one person is committing another felony in NoVa, he or she could face felony murder charges. The underlying felony committed may lead to a felony murder charge of either first or second degree. For example, arson, robbery, burglary, abduction, rape, sexual penetration from an inanimate or animate object, or forcible sodomy will lead to a first degree murder charge.

How Does Virginia Law Define Manslaughter?

The state of Virginia considers the unlawful killing of another where no malice was found to be voluntary manslaughter. Typically, this type of murder occurs during the heat of passion where the accused reacts to some form of provocation. However, malicious intent did not cause the death.

Other circumstances may result involuntary manslaughter charges. Generally, voluntary manslaughter is classified as a Class 5 felony that carries a $2,500 fine and up to 10 years in prison making it important that a Virginia homicide lawyer is consulted.

Elements of Involuntary Manslaughter

On the other hand, involuntary manslaughter under VA Code Section 18.2-36 is accidentally killing someone during an unlawful act or improperly performing a lawful act. The latter is classified as criminal negligence such as handling a firearm recklessly and another person dies. Involuntary manslaughter has the same penalties as voluntary manslaughter with a fine of $2,500 and a prison sentence up to 10 years.

There are other forms of involuntary manslaughter that may result in criminal charges and require the attention of a Virginia involuntary manslaughter lawyer. A person may cause the death of another by throwing missiles or shooting at an automobile or train. Discharging a firearm within a house or other building is another example. Obstructing a railroad, power line or canal is also cause for involuntary manslaughter when a person dies.

DUI/DWI Manslaughter

Driving under the influence or while intoxicated is a crime in Northern Virginia. The charges are compounded when another person is killed from a person’s reckless disregard for human life. Virginia’s Va. Code 18.2-36.1 defines a special form of manslaughter under these circumstances.

Technically, any person that drives under the influence and unintentionally causes another person’s death receives a charge of DWI manslaughter, which is also classified as involuntary manslaughter. Gross or wanton behavior that disregards human life may lead to aggravated involuntary vehicular manslaughter. This charge includes a minimum mandatory one year sentence with as much as 20 years in prison.

Contact an Experienced Homicide Lawyer in Virginia

Being accused of murder is a serious crime that requires serious commitment from an attorney. Whether or not your situation leads to a trial, the focus should be on establishing facts. Following the right procedure regarding the technical aspects of your case is essential. Therefore, you want a homicide attorney who knows Virginia statutes.

If you or someone you know has been arrested and is facing murder charges, contact an experienced Virginia homicide lawyer as soon as possible. The best defense can be built early into the investigation process. Even if you are under criminal investigation, legal representation can help to ensure your legal rights are not violated.