Being charged with vehicular manslaughter is an incredibly serious matter—our experienced California defense attorneys will stand by your side to protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome.
The Elements of Vehicular Manslaughter
Vehicular manslaughter involves the unintentional killing of another person due to the negligent operation of a motor vehicle. This negligence can be defined in several different ways and is not solely restricted to DUI collisions. Careless driving that results in the death of another person while unimpaired can also be classified as vehicular manslaughter.
Examples of vehicular manslaughter include fatal collisions caused by:
- Texting while driving
- Speeding
- Insurance fraud
- Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol
The punishments for this offense are largely based on the level of negligence that allegedly caused the accident. As the highest and most serious type, gross vehicular manslaughter can result in six years in prison. Ordinary negligence is classified as a misdemeanor in California, leading to a maximum of one year in county jail. At The Law Offices of Bamieh & De Smeth, we understand that this can be an intensely stressful time. We are committed to providing our clients with excellent legal counsel and pursuing the most desirable outcome for each case.
You have the right and the means to defend yourself, and we are eager to stand by your side until your case is resolved. Securing your future is always a top priority for us, and we are ready and willing to provide you with the knowledgeable legal assistance that you need.
Fill out a free case evaluation form today to start moving towards securing your future. Scenarios that can be classified as second degree murder include:
- An impulsive killing without premeditation
- A killing resulting from another action intending to cause harm
- A killing showing lack of care for the lives of others
Both of these classifications are serious offenses that can lead to lengthy prison sentences. For a second degree murder conviction, 15 years to life in prison is typical. First degree murder can result in a 25 year to life sentence. Either way, aggressive legal representation is necessary in order to attempt to achieve a desirable outcome.
