Georgia's Vehicular Homicide Penalties

The charge of homicide by automobile — also known as vehicular homicide in Georgia — occurs when a motor vehicle driver inadvertently causes an accident that results in the death of another person. A conviction for vehicular homicide carries severe penalties. It is critical to have the representation of a competent defense attorney who understands the statutes and case law and is familiar with local practices and processes.

Vehicular Homicide Penalties

First and second-degree vehicular homicide penalties include jail or prison sentences. The minimum jail sentence for a felony 1st-degree conviction is three years, and the maximum is fifteen years. A misdemeanor 2nd-degree conviction can result in up to 12 months in jail and a $1,000 fine, depending on the judge's discretion. In addition to jail or prison time and a fine, a conviction for 1st or 2nd-degree vehicular murder results in a three-year (1st-degree) or 12-month (12th-degree) driver's license suspension (2nd-degree).

If numerous people are killed in a single accident, each fatality results in a separate charge. The charges are not combined. A Georgia judge can impose consecutive sentences for several counts of the same accident. Moreover, a felony or misdemeanor vehicular homicide conviction on your record can have far-reaching consequences in your life that go beyond the criminal and administrative punishments. The implications can include trouble finding work, housing, and even obtaining financial credit. Anyone facing vehicular homicide prosecution should seek the advice of an experienced Vehicular Homicide Attorney in Atlana, GA. So, they would help you thoroughly while considering minute details.

Defending Against a Charge of Vehicular Homicide

The prosecution must prove a vehicular homicide case beyond a reasonable doubt, just like any other criminal allegation. Based on the facts and the required elements of the case, an experienced defense attorney can devise tactics for defending against a vehicular homicide allegation. The evidence showing the causal link between the victim's death and the defendant's driving behavior is frequently contested.

Also, the underlying traffic violation must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. For example, if a DUI arrest provides the basis for the vehicular homicide charge, a counsel can challenge the evidence and thereby negate the basis for the vehicular homicide charge. The facts and circumstances of the individual case always determine defenses. Having an experienced defense attorney who knows DUI and other traffic violations, as well as vehicular homicide charges, provides you with the best chance of a successful defense.

Plea bargaining may also play a role in successfully fighting against a vehicular homicide allegation. Your lawyer should be aware with local practices and processes, as well as the prosecution's position on plea bargains in vehicular homicide cases. In some situations, reducing the charge might significantly impact the fines and repercussions of the offense.

Speak with an Expert in Georgia Vehicular Homicide Defense.

Our attorneys have the proper combination of experience, expertise, and knowledge to defend against a vehicular homicide charge and any connected traffic infraction, including DUI. So, if you are facing vehicular homicide penalties then please contact us as soon as possible so that we can start working on your case.

Article source: https://article-realm.com/article/Finance/43567-Georgias-Vehicular-Homicide-Penalties.html