Las Vegas Vehicular Manslaughter Lawyer
Aggressive Defense for Clients Facing Serious Charges
A moment’s mistake on the road can lead to a lifetime of consequences. In Nevada, if a driver’s negligence or simple carelessness causes a fatal crash, prosecutors may file vehicular manslaughter charges under NRS § 484B.657. Though this offense is less severe than vehicular homicide or DUI resulting in death, a conviction can still mean jail time, loss of your driver’s license, and a permanent mark on your criminal record.
Attorney Ross C. Goodman, who leads Goodman Law Group, is a Las Vegas native and trial-tested defense attorney who understands how the local justice system handles fatal accident cases. He has defended drivers in complex vehicular crime cases throughout Clark County, including many that are referred to him by other attorneys.
When the stakes are this high, you need a lawyer who knows how to navigate the local courts, challenge the state’s evidence, and fight relentlessly for your future.
Call (702) 825-7854 to speak with our Las Vegas vehicular manslaughter attorney.
Vehicular Manslaughter Under Nevada Law
Vehicular manslaughter is defined in NRS § 484B.657 as the unlawful killing of another person through simple negligence while driving. Simple negligence sets this charge apart from more serious offenses like vehicular homicide or DUI causing death, which require proof of reckless disregard or intoxication.
Vehicular manslaughter applies when a driver unintentionally causes a fatal accident by failing to use reasonable care, such as by being distracted, speeding, or making a careless driving decision.
Unlike DUI-related fatalities, vehicular manslaughter cases don’t hinge on intoxication or deliberate wrongdoing. Prosecutors only need to prove that the driver’s ordinary negligence directly caused someone’s death. This rule means even an otherwise law-abiding driver could face criminal prosecution for what might have been a tragic accident.
Attorney Goodman understands how easily these cases can be overcharged and how prosecutors sometimes push for a conviction even when the evidence of negligence is weak or circumstantial.
Penalties for Vehicular Manslaughter in Nevada
Vehicular manslaughter is typically charged as a misdemeanor in Nevada, but the penalties can still have life-changing effects. The court’s judgment often depends on the facts of the crash, the driver’s prior record, and whether aggravating factors were involved.
Even without prior offenses, a conviction means facing criminal punishment and administrative consequences from the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
A vehicular manslaughter conviction can carry the following penalties:
- Up to 6 months in jail
- Fines of up to $1,000
- Court costs and other administrative fees
- Suspension or revocation of your driver’s license by the Nevada DMV
- Possible civil liability for damages in a separate wrongful death lawsuit
While some misdemeanor offenses may be resolved without jail time, vehicular manslaughter is treated far more seriously because of the loss of life involved. Prosecutors in Clark County often push for incarceration or significant license restrictions. Attorney Goodman knows how to challenge those penalties and present mitigating evidence that humanizes you in court and demonstrates that the crash was a tragic accident, not a criminal act.
Defending Against Vehicular Manslaughter Charges
Every vehicular manslaughter case is different, and no attorney can guarantee which defenses will apply or succeed in a particular case. However, Attorney Ross C. Goodman has developed a wide range of strategies to protect clients facing serious traffic-related criminal charges in Las Vegas courts. His approach often begins with an in-depth review of the crash investigation, accident reconstruction reports, witness statements, and police procedures to expose weaknesses in the prosecution’s narrative.
Depending on the circumstances, your defense may involve one or more of the following strategies:
- Challenging the finding of negligence, arguing that your actions were reasonable under the conditions.
- Disputing the reliability of witnesses or evidence, especially if the prosecution relies on biased or inconsistent statements.
- Attacking flaws in the accident investigation, such as missing data, improper evidence handling, or failure to consider alternative explanations.
- Negotiating for reduced charges or dismissal based on insufficient evidence or procedural errors.
Attorney Goodman can also examine whether law enforcement overstepped boundaries during questioning or evidence collection. He is known for aggressive courtroom representation and precision in cross-examining expert witnesses, including accident reconstructionists and medical examiners. His trial record and reputation for meticulous preparation often give prosecutors reason to hesitate.
Call Goodman Law Group Today
If you’ve been accused of vehicular manslaughter in Las Vegas, every decision you make from this point forward matters. Even a misdemeanor conviction can damage your life, your freedom, and your future opportunities. You need a defense attorney who understands both the legal complexities and the local court dynamics of these cases.
Attorney Ross C. Goodman has earned his reputation as one of Las Vegas’s most tenacious criminal defense lawyers. He has spent years representing clients in high-profile vehicular crime cases. He knows the prosecutors, the judges, and the “lay of the legal land,” and he uses that insight to defend clients vigorously.
Call (702) 825-7854 to schedule an initial case review with our vehicular manslaughter attorney in Las Vegas.
Why Choose Us: Expertise, Dedication, Results
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Comprehensive Criminal DefenseWhether facing charges for DUI, violent crimes, or white-collar offenses, Goodman Law Group provides aggressive representation with a focus on achieving the best possible outcomes for clients in both state and federal courts.
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Local Expertise, National ImpactAs a lifelong Las Vegas resident, Ross C. Goodman’s deep knowledge of local laws, courts, and legal professionals gives his clients a distinct advantage, while his nationally recognized legal skills elevate his reputation beyond the state.
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Proven Track RecordWith nearly 30 years of experience and a history of high-profile victories, Ross C. Goodman is a top-tier criminal defense attorney, known for securing dismissals, "Not Guilty" verdicts, and favorable resolutions.
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Personalized, Successful DefenseEvery case at Goodman Law Group is handled with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring personalized strategies that have resulted in reduced sentences, acquittals, and alternative legal resolutions for thousands of clients.
Client Success Stories
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"Thanks to Mr. Goodman, my situation was resolved with the best possible outcome, and in record time! If you're looking for a criminal defense lawyer in Vegas, he's THE guy."I cannot say enough good things about Mr. Goodman. After being arrested at EDC, I contacted him to represent me in the resulting case. I was terrified of the potential consequences, but he worked his magic and got the case completely DISMISSED - an outcome that I never even dreamed of!
After consulting with a few other lawyers in the Vegas area, Mr. Goodman's professionalism was a breath of fresh air. He clearly knows the law and is very well connected in the city. Above all else, he relentlessly projects power and confidence in his conversations, a critical trait that every lawyer should have. I can't think of anyone I'd rather have negotiating on my behalf.
Thanks to Mr. Goodman, my situation was resolved with the best possible outcome, and in record time! If you're looking for a criminal defense lawyer in Vegas, he's THE guy.
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"You don't find lawyers like him every day."If someone wants competence, experience, straightforwardness, and results along with a great personality then they need Ross Goodman. He's the only attorney I would recommend. The quality I received with Ross cannot be overstated. He's the best!
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"This is the kind of attorney you don’t just recommend — you insist people hire. Worth every penny."Ross Goodman is, without question, in a league of his own. From our very first meeting, it was clear this wasn’t just another defense attorney — Ross is the real deal. He knows the system, commands respect in the courtroom, and he knows how to get results when it matters the most.
To be completely honest, we didn’t hire Ross right away — and that was our first mistake. We initially went with another well-known law firm, thinking we were getting a specific high-profile attorney. But when it came time for court, instead of the person we were promised, they sent in a junior lawyer we’d never met. I couldn’t even get straight answers to basic questions, and it quickly became clear that we were just another file on someone’s desk.
That experience made me double down and insist that we bring Ross Goodman onto the case. I had already met with him in person and had done my homework. After spending an entire afternoon watching interviews, YouTube clips, and reading about his background (and his incredible family — yes, I’m now also a fan of his dad, Oscar Goodman), I knew this was the attorney we had to have. Thankfully, we made the switch — and everything changed.
He took a very serious situation and turned it into a manageable, strategic resolution. He negotiated a plea that avoided a felony conviction — something we honestly didn’t think was possible. That outcome didn’t happen by chance — it happened because he knows how to talk to prosecutors, how to protect his clients when the stakes are high, and how to be the very best at what he does.
He’s not the cheapest attorney in town — and that’s exactly the point. If you’re gambling with your freedom, your record, or your future, you want someone with real experience and a proven reputation. You don’t hire Ross to hope for a good outcome , you hire him because you want the best possible one.
This is the kind of attorney you don’t just recommend — you insist people hire.
Worth every penny. -
"He got me an excellent result, better than I could have expected."I can't say enough good things about Ross and his team. He kept me fully informed, answered my questions promptly and personally, and was just there for me. I'd definitely recommend him without any hesitation.- Howard R.
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"Thanks to Ross C. Goodman, my case was successful!"
Gracias a Ross C. Goodman mi caso ha sido satisfactorio y confiaré en el en todo mi proceso. Muy buena atención y dedicación una persona agradable y honesta
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Thanks to Ross C. Goodman, my case was successful, and I will trust him throughout my entire process. Very good attention and dedication, he is a pleasant and honest person.
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"His professional and knowledge of Las Vegas law is impeccable."Ross Goodman has got to be the best attorney in the Las Vegas area. When we needed a lawyer to represent our son, Ross appeared in court on his behalf and had his DUI reduced to reckless driving. His professional and knowledge of Las Vegas law is impeccable. I would recommend Ross to anyone who want excellent representation.- Avis A.
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"Thank you from the bottom of my heart!"
To say thank you doesn't seem like it's enough but thank you so much. Lonnie and I appreciate all you did to get the desired results for Jonathan. Am sure he is appreciative as well.
Thank you for being there when we needed you. It's been my pleasure to have worked with you. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Sincerely,
Pam K.
- Pam K. -
"Attorneys of Ross Goodman’s caliber are few and far between and certainly hard to find."He fights for his clients and I truly thank him for that. I feel fortunate to have made his acquaintance and had his representation. The outcome he was able to secure was a blessing in my life.
