Criminal Charges? Know Your Rights.
In most DUI cases in Maryland, the charges filed will be for a misdemeanor. There are, however, situations in which a DUI charge can be escalated to a felony. Not only is a felony much more serious in terms of the penalties you’ll face, but also for the impact it may have on you and your future.
One of the more common ways to escalate a DUI misdemeanor to a felony is if your drunk driving results in the death of another, known as vehicular manslaughter. The charges for vehicular manslaughter in Maryland are very severe. If you’ve been charged with such, you should seek the immediate counsel of a Maryland DUI defense lawyer.
What Is Vehicular Manslaughter?
In short, vehicular manslaughter is when your driving results in the death of another driver, passenger, or pedestrian. Vehicular manslaughter in Maryland can be charged both to drivers under the influence as well as those driving with negligence and is a serious crime.
In these cases, the prosecution will often work to show that the defendant was aware of the risk but consciously disregarded it. In other cases, they may work to show that the defendant wasn’t aware of their conduct, despite the fact that they should have been.
No matter how you’re accused, vehicular manslaughter in Maryland requires the expertise of an experienced defense lawyer to help build your case.
Vehicular Manslaughter and Drunk Driving
Homicide by motor vehicle while under the influence is a quick way to increase the typical DUI misdemeanor into a felony with serious maximum penalties. Whether a driver under the influence kills one of their passengers, a driver or passenger in another car, or a pedestrian, they could be tried for vehicular manslaughter in addition to a DUI.
Penalties for Vehicular Manslaughter in Maryland
Vehicular manslaughter in Maryland carries these possible penalties:
- Up to 10 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $5,000
- 12 points on your license with the potential of revocation of driving privileges
Vehicular manslaughter while under the influence can carry even more significant penalties. Anyone charged with either of these crimes should immediately seek the counsel of a Maryland criminal defense attorney.
How Can a Maryland Defense Lawyer Help You?
In all types of vehicular manslaughter and DUI cases, a Maryland defense lawyer will be key to building your side of the case. Your lawyer can also help you understand what the charges mean and what types of defenses you may have. Equally important, an experienced Maryland criminal defense attorney can help teach you what resources and options you may have post-conviction to get your life back on track as best as possible.
Hire Our Experts to Defend Your Case
Albers & Associates has years of experience in Maryland DUI and vehicular manslaughter defense cases and is here as your resourceful lawyer. With excellent care and attention to our clients, we’ll work for you from your first inquiry to the end of your case.
Give us a call today for a free consultation.
