Vehicular manslaughter in New York County (Manhattan) is a serious felony under NY Penal Law § 125.12-125.13 carrying up to 15 years in prison; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in New York County (Manhattan).
Vehicular Manslaughter Lawyer in New York County (Manhattan), New York
Under New York law, vehicular manslaughter is defined under NY Penal Law § 125.12 (Vehicular Manslaughter in the Second Degree) and § 125.13 (Vehicular Manslaughter in the First Degree). Second-degree vehicular manslaughter occurs when a person operates a motor vehicle in a manner that causes the death of another person and either commits a traffic infraction or is under the influence of alcohol or drugs. First-degree vehicular manslaughter involves operating a vehicle while intoxicated and causing death, with aggravating factors such as a prior DWI conviction or a blood alcohol content of 0.18% or higher. These are Class D and Class C felonies, respectively. Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience.
Last verified: April 2026 | New York County Supreme Court | NY Penal Law § 125.12 (New York State Senate — official site)
For the full text of the statute, see NY Penal Law § 125.12 (New York State Senate — official site) and NY Penal Law § 125.13 (New York State Senate — official site).
In New York County Supreme Court, prosecutors routinely seek maximum penalties in vehicular manslaughter cases, especially those involving alcohol or drugs.
We have observed that early intervention and a thorough investigation of the accident scene can be critical to building a defense.
Challenging the admissibility of chemical test results and the reliability of witness statements is often a key strategy.
- Do not speak to police without counsel present.
- Preserve all evidence, including phone records and GPS data.
- Contact a vehicular manslaughter lawyer immediately.
- Do not discuss the case on social media.
- Attend all court appearances as scheduled.
- Follow your attorney’s advice throughout the process.
In New York County (Manhattan), vehicular manslaughter carries a penalty range of up to 15 years in prison for a Class C felony.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicular Manslaughter 2nd Degree (NY Penal Law § 125.12) | Class D Felony | Up to 7 years | Up to $5,000 | License revocation for at least 6 months | Probation, mandatory surcharge, victim impact panel |
| Vehicular Manslaughter 1st Degree (NY Penal Law § 125.13) | Class C Felony | Up to 15 years | Up to $5,000 | License revocation for at least 1 year | Probation, mandatory surcharge, victim impact panel, possible deportation for non-citizens |
Results may vary.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ. While specific case results for New York County (Manhattan) are not available, the firm maintains a favorable-outcome rate above 93% across all practice areas.
Results may vary.
Our location in Buffalo, NY is approximately 370 miles from New York County Supreme Court, with access via I-90 and I-87.
Vehicular manslaughter lawyer near New York County (Manhattan).
Serving the communities of Manhattan (Midtown, Lower Manhattan, Upper East Side, Upper West Side, Harlem, Greenwich Village, SoHo, Tribeca, Chelsea, Hell’s Kitchen, East Village, Financial District, Chinatown, Washington Heights, Inwood).
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Buffalo, NY
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142, Buffalo, NY 14202
(838) 292-0003
Frequently Asked Questions About Vehicular Manslaughter in New York
Should I fight a traffic ticket in New York County (Manhattan), New York?
Yes, if the charge carries demerit points or criminal exposure. Prepaying a ticket is a guilty plea — it adds points to your record, may raise insurance for years, and cannot be undone. At NYS Traffic Violations Bureau (TVB — NYC/Buffalo/Rochester) or New York County (Manhattan) local Justice Court, an attorney can negotiate reductions, present calibration and technical defenses, and in many cases avoid conviction entirely. Reckless driving, DUI, and suspended-license charges should never be paid without consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — (888) 437-7747.
Yes, if the charge carries demerit points or criminal exposure. Prepaying a ticket is a guilty plea.
What are the penalties for vehicular manslaughter in New York?
Penalties for vehicular manslaughter in New York depend on the specific charges, prior record, and circumstances. Under NY Penal Law § 125.12-125.13, consequences may include fines, jail time, probation, or other sanctions. Consult a New York traffic attorney for case-specific guidance.
How does a New York lawyer defend against vehicular manslaughter charges?
Defense strategies for vehicular manslaughter in New York may include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under NY Penal Law § 125.12-125.13 to build the strongest possible defense.
What should I do if I am facing vehicular manslaughter charges in New York?
If facing vehicular manslaughter charges in New York, contact a traffic attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer. Preserve all relevant documents and evidence. The statute of limitations and court deadlines under New York law require prompt action.
Last verified: April 2026