If you or someone you love has been involved in a DUI-related car crash that resulted in death to another person, you may be facing charges of vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated. It is important that you fully understand what you are being charged with, what the penalties are, and how a qualified DUI attorney can help defend you against your charges.
What is Gross Vehicular Manslaughter While Intoxicated?
In California, gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated (Penal Code 191.5(a) PC) is defined as the unlawful killing of a human being under the following circumstances:
- The defendant was driving with a BAC over the legal limit
- While driving under the influence, the defendant committed another misdemeanor that may cause death without malice aforethought
- That illegal act was committed with gross negligence
- The defendant’s gross negligent conduct caused the death of another person
Examples of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated include:
- Driving with a BAC exceeding .08%, a driver veers onto a sidewalk and strikes a pedestrian, killing him instantly.
- A driver driving under the influence of amphetamines drives over the speed limit, loses control of his vehicle, and crashes into the back of another car, killing the driver.
Penalties for Gross Vehicular Manslaughter While Intoxicated
Gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated is a felony in California punishable by a prison sentence of four, six, or ten years. A conviction will also result in a driver’s license suspension. In addition to these penalties, a person may suffer damage to their reputation, which could make it difficult to find employment, obtain a loan, and more. With so much at stake, it is critical to obtain the right representation as soon as possible.
How a DUI Attorney Can Help
If you are facing criminal charges for the death of another person in connection with DUI, it is absolutely imperative that you contact an experienced Orange County DUI defense attorney immediately. These types of cases require the guidance of a skilled and qualified attorney who knows how to formulate effective defenses. At the Law Offices of Virginia L. Landry, Inc., our lead attorney, Virginia L. Landry, is Board Certified in DUI Defense, a distinction shared by only a handful of attorneys in California. You can feel confident turning to our firm for the highest level of representation.
To schedule a case evaluation with an Orange County DUI lawyer at our firm, please call (877) DUI-QUEEN.
