Ellijay Vehicular Homicide Lawyer

Vehicular Homicide Attorney in Ellijay

A vehicular homicide charge is one of the most life-altering allegations a person can face. The consequences of a vehicular manslaughter conviction in Ellijay can be devastating due to lengthy sentences, heavy fines, and a lasting criminal record. If you or a loved one is facing such charges, do not wait to seek legal counsel from a skilled Ellijay vehicular homicide lawyer.

Sevcech Law: Your Ellijay Criminal Defense team

At Sevcech Law, our team has comprehensive knowledge of Georgia’s criminal laws and extensive courtroom experience. We understand just how much is at stake when you’re facing charges as severe as vehicular homicide and are prepared to put our experience, knowledge, and passion to use for you. We work tirelessly to ensure each of our clients receives personalized, strategic defense services that advocate for the most ideal outcome in their situation.

Understanding Vehicular Homicide in Ellijay, Georgia

Vehicular homicide is not uncommon. Georgia sees over 1,500 traffic fatalities each year, the fourth highest in the U.S. A vehicular homicide charge may be a felony or misdemeanor, depending on what caused the death. Felonies (first-degree) carry harsher penalties than misdemeanors (second-degree).

The Two Main Types of Vehicular Homicide in Georgia

First-degree and second-degree vehicular homicide in Georgia are differentiated by the traffic violation or behavior that caused the death. A first-degree, or felony, charge is the result of killing someone when the at-fault driver:

• Was driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Left the scene after the accident (hit and run)
• Overtook a stopped school bus
• Fled or attempted to elude a police officer
• Was driving recklessly
• Was a habitual violator

An individual who was declared a habitual violator has committed three or more serious traffic crimes in the last five years. This could include vehicular homicide as well as crimes such as a DUI or reckless driving. A habitual violator will also face a longer sentence, which can range from five to 20 years for first-degree vehicular homicide.

Other than the violations listed for a first-degree charge, a second-degree charge, or misdemeanor, includes any traffic violation that results in unintentionally killing someone. This could include:

• Speeding
• Distracted driving
• Failing to yield the right-of-way
• Running a red light
• Improper lane changes

Penalties for Vehicular Homicide in Ellijay

Penalties that come with a vehicular homicide conviction in Ellijay are dependent on the severity of your case. While there are minimum mandatory penalties for both first and second-degree vehicular homicide, the consequences you receive will depend on factors such as:

• How reckless or negligent you were
• Whether you were committing a criminal act before the death occurred
• Whether you are a repeat offender
• The number of people who were harmed in the accident

First-degree vehicular homicide results in prison time between three and 15 years and a license suspension for 3 years. For second-degree charges, you can spend up to a year in jail and/or receive a $1000 fine. In addition, your license can be suspended for up to a year. Penalties are decided by a judge and vary from case to case, making it crucial that you have a legal advocate by your side who can fight for your future and reduce consequences.

Why Hire a Vehicular Homicide Lawyer in Ellijay?

Vehicular homicide cases in Ellijay come with high stakes, which can make the future seem daunting. Trying to navigate this process alone is not only overwhelming, but it could lead to penalties that impact the rest of your life. When you hire an experienced Ellijay vehicular homicide attorney from Sevcech Law, we can help build a powerful defense and advocate for reduced or dismissed charges by:

• Understanding Georgia and Federal Vehicular Homicide Laws. Your lawyer can help you better understand the charges against you and the potential legal avenues available to you. Our comprehensive understanding of state and federal laws can help us identify which legal defense strategy is right for you.
• Gathering and Examining Evidence. We can examine evidence and organize witness statements that can support your defense. We can also spot weaknesses in evidence that could be used against you, such as a unconstitutional blood or breath test.
• Negotiating on Your Behalf. Our team shares extensive negotiation skills and has worked through countless hearings both in and out of the courtroom. Our litigation skills allow us to advocate for our clients during trial, while our negotiation skills ensure you receive the optimal settlement.

FAQs

Will I Be Able to Drive After Being Charged With Vehicular Homicide in Georgia?

It is possible for you to drive again in Georgia after you are convicted of vehicular homicide. However, when you are able to drive again will depend on the severity of your offense. Generally, your license will be immediately suspended when you face charges such as these. If you are convicted of first-degree vehicular homicide, your license will be suspended for three years, and for second-degree vehicular homicide, suspensions may last 12 months.

Can I Be Charged With Vehicular Homicide in Georgia If the Other Driver Was Partially At Fault?

Yes, even if the other driver was partially at fault, if you were exhibiting a behavior like reckless driving, driving under the influence, or another traffic violation, you are still responsible and can be charged with vehicular homicide in Georgia. Comparative fault is not used to determine whether you should be charged if you are guilty of vehicular homicide. You should talk to a lawyer to understand your rights after being involved in an accident of such nature.

How Early Should I Contact a Vehicular Homicide Lawyer in Georgia?

If you are facing vehicular homicide charges in Ellijay or anywhere else throughout Georgia, you should contact a vehicular homicide lawyer as soon as possible. Contacting a lawyer early can help you protect your rights during the investigation, and they can speak to law enforcement and gather evidence and information that can be used in your defense. Having a lawyer advise you is invaluable, and contacting them early sets you up to secure a positive outcome.

Contact Sevcech Law Today

Our attorneys know that vehicular homicide charges require quick action and personalized, powerful defenses. Sevcech Law is committed to representing Ellijay drivers and helping them fight the charges against them, protecting their livelihoods and futures. Contact us today to learn how our team can help you through vehicular homicide charges.