Negligent & Vehicular Homicide
Utah lawyer defending charges of accidental death
Charges of negligent homicide or vehicular homicide do not suggest that you intentionally caused a death, but that you should have known that a fatal outcome was possible or likely. Negligent homicide may involve a variety of scenarios, while vehicular homicide is limited to deaths caused by driving.
Defense of negligent homicide
To be convicted of negligent homicide, you must be shown to have caused the death of another person through criminal negligence. Many cases involve drivers who were not intoxicated but became distracted for some other reason. If you have an accident while you are changing the radio station and another person is killed, you may be charged with negligent homicide. You face up to a year in jail and the permanent loss of your drivers' license. Lawyer Harold Stone makes the case that you could not have reasonably foreseen the loss of life and your actions were therefore not criminally negligent.
Overcoming vehicular homicide
Vehicular homicide — technically called automobile homicide in Utah law — is the crime of causing a death while driving under the influence of drugs, alcohol or both. This is a separate charge from DUI. Vehicular homicide is a third-degree felony, with a potential penalty of 5 years in prison. Harold Stone begins your defense by challenging your DUI charges.
What to do if you are arrested after a fatal accident
Law enforcement can easily take advantage of your grief and confusion at a fatal accident scene. Try to stay composed, and do not:
- Describe your activities inside the car which may have distracted you
- Consent to roadside sobriety tests
- Admit fault for the accident or the death
Invoke your right to remain silent and speak to an attorney.
Get skilled defense for crimes involving accidental death
You deserve a criminal lawyer in Salt Lake City who will fight for the best possible outcome when you are charged with negligent or vehicular homicide. Call Harold Stone today at 1-801-913-7055, or contact the firm online to schedule your initial consultation.
