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Are You Facing Charges For Vehicular Manslaughter?

Considered a crime in most of the United States, vehicular manslaughter can be charged as either a felony or a misdemeanor manslaughter offense in North Carolina.

If you were the driver of a car involved in an accident that resulted in the death of another human being, you could be held liable for that death. This includes the death of a passenger in your car, another driver or their passenger, a motorcyclist, bicyclist or pedestrian.

The actual charges will depend on the facts of the accident. You could be facing charges based on whether the accident was due to a traffic violation, such as speeding, running a red light or overtaking another vehicle, or criminal negligence, such as driving under the influence. Hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney is critical to protecting your rights to due process.

Laws Vary From State To State

In some states, the death of an unborn fetus due to vehicular manslaughter is equally punishable by law. Vehicular manslaughter is most often charged against individuals who, while driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, cause the death of another individual.

While it is clear that vehicular manslaughter is a crime, there is room for controversy. In some states, vehicular manslaughter is a separate offense from intoxication manslaughter and carries different penalties and distinctions. Additionally, other states do not carry vehicular manslaughter laws, and efforts have been made in other states to lessen the sentences of those who unwittingly cause the death of individuals in car accidents. A knowledgeable criminal defense attorney alone understands the specifics of vehicular manslaughter laws and charges.

Vehicular manslaughter laws allow for the vehicle to be viewed as a potentially deadly weapon in various cases, so it is possible for the court to allow an easier conviction and even press for more severe penalties than those allowed in typical vehicular manslaughter cases. Because of this, it is essential for individuals accused of vehicular manslaughter to seek a highly skilled criminal defense attorney to represent them. Individuals charged with vehicular manslaughter should seek the immediate advice of a criminal lawyer who can discuss the details of the law in state-specific terms and determine the best course of action necessary to pursue available options.

Studies have found that people convicted of vehicular homicide are often given shorter sentences than those guilty of other types of homicide. And while gender does not appear to affect the length of the prison sentence, race does sometimes appear to affect sentences, according to statistics. It is important to hire a criminal defense attorney who can navigate the law and ensure that the accused is treated fairly.

Contact Stewart, Schmidlin, Bullock & Gourley, PLLC, Now For Knowledgeable Legal Representation

If you have been accused of vehicular manslaughter, you may send us an email or call our office in Smithfield at 919-989-8900 any time, day or night, for a free and confidential consultation. We are experienced, compassionate defense attorneys who will treat you with respect. We serve clients throughout Johnston County.