When there is a fatal car accident and one driver is accused of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, there may be charges of a felony DUI or vehicular manslaughter filed against the accused driver.
An experienced criminal defense attorney can help you if you have been arrested for felony DUI or vehicular manslaughter. Contact Portner & Shure, P.A. to discuss your legal rights and options with a Maryland, Virginia, or Washington, D.C. felony DUI defense lawyer at our firm. We have over 30 years of experience and a track record of success.
Call (410) 995-1515 today or contact us online to get started with your free case evaluation.
How Is One Convicted?
In order to be convicted of vehicular manslaughter, the prosecuting attorney must prove that:
- The driver was intoxicated
- He violated a traffic law or acted negligently
- This violation of the law or negligence was the reason for the death
What Are the Consequences?
If the accused driver is convicted of these charges, he may face up to 4 to 10 years in prison, depending on the circumstances of the accident. Not only will the driver be a convicted felon, but the points for the accident will remain on his license for 11 years, which will make it difficult for him to restore his right to drive.
Preliminary Hearings
In Virginia, anyone arrested and charged for a felony criminal offense has the right to a preliminary hearing. The accused can waive the preliminary hearing as long as it is in writing.
Contact Portner & Shure, P.A. for a Free Consultation
Experienced Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. felony DUI defense attorneys at Portner & Shure, P.A. are ready to act on your behalf.
