Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs or in a reckless manner can result in an arrest for vehicular manslaughter if you cause an auto accident that results in someone’s death.
If you operate a motor vehicle, you have a duty to act in a safe manner, follow all laws, and not put others at risk on the road. Getting behind the wheel after drinking or while under the influence of drugs can put you at a greater risk of injuring or killing someone. However, driving under the influence is not the only way you can be charged with vehicular manslaughter or vehicular homicide. Driving recklessly, drag racing, or killing a highway construction worker in a posted construction zone could also land you in jail. If you have been charged with a crime after an auto accident, it is imperative that you speak with an experienced Manchester, TN criminal defense attorney right away.
The sentence for vehicular manslaughter can include jail or prison time, which is why it is necessary to prepare the best defense possible. At the Law Offices of Burch & Stewart, our team of criminal defense attorneys have over 20 years of experience representing clients in Middle Tennessee.
Tennessee Vehicular Manslaughter Categories
There are a few types of vehicular manslaughter charges and each will carry different sentences. There are fine lines between criminally negligent homicide and vehicular homicide by intoxication. There is also another category, aggravated vehicular homicide, which is even more of a serious charge. The prosecution may go for aggravated vehicular homicide if you were driving on a revoked or suspended license at the time of the accident, or if you have certain other prior convictions.
Just because you have been charged with vehicular manslaughter, it does not mean you are definitely convicted. Choosing the best Manchester criminal attorney can make all the difference in your case. We provide all our clients with the best representation possible, no matter what the charges are. You need someone who will aggressively defend your rights and be there to answer all your questions throughout the process.
How We can Defend You in a Tennessee Vehicular Manslaughter Case
We understand how scary it is to face serious criminal charges resulting from a motor vehicle accident. Through our years of experience and time in the courtroom, we have strategies to exploit weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. This can raise reasonable doubt for the jury. To defend you against these charges, we will start by launching a comprehensive investigation and use all the tools necessary. This may include:
- Conducting a biochemistry analysis;
- Analyzing crash dynamics;
- Hiring an accident reconstructionist; and
- Analyzing toxicology reports.
In some cases, we may be able to uncover evidence that leads to a dismissal before the case even goes to trial. In the event your case moves forward, rest assured that we will have a solid defense prepared.
Contact a Manchester Vehicular Manslaughter Attorney Today
Being charged with vehicular manslaughter is a serious offense. It is a Class B felony and can carry a sentence of anywhere from eight to 30 years in prison. You may even find yourself ineligible for probation if the charge stems from driving while intoxicated. Do not leave your future to chance, let our criminal attorneys help. Contact the Law Offices of Burch & Stewart today to schedule an initial consultation.
Our Practice Areas