Are you a defendant facing a vehicular manslaughter charge in Dayton, OH? Charges like these can change your life instantly and require experienced legal guidance. Call Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers for help right away. Our team brings over 100 years of combined experience and includes former police officers and prosecutors.
We have handled almost every type of criminal case and understand how both the law and the system work. Let us review your situation and fight for your rights when facing a criminal matter in Dayton, Ohio. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation at (937) 531-0435 with a Dayton vehicular manslaughter lawyer.
How Suhre & Associates Can Help if You’re Arrested For Vehicular Manslaughter in Dayton, OH
If you’ve been arrested for vehicular manslaughter, our team is here to help.
Here’s what we can do for you:
- We carefully review all details of your arrest, including accident reports, forensic evidence, and police procedures, to find anything that can be used to help defend you.
- Our legal team will speak with witnesses to challenge the prosecution’s version of events.
- We negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or consider options like treatment programs in appropriate situations.
Our attorneys are prepared to represent you in court and present a strong case on your behalf if your case goes to trial. Suhre & Associates has been recognized by groups like the National Trial Lawyers Top 100, and our attorneys carry a 10.0 Avvo rating.
If you need help in Dayton, Ohio, don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers to schedule a free consultation with a Dayton vehicular manslaughter lawyer.
Overview of Vehicular Manslaughter in Ohio
Vehicular manslaughter in Ohio is a serious charge that can have a lasting impact on your life. It occurs when a person causes another’s death while operating a vehicle, including cars, boats, or even aircraft, because of a minor traffic violation. This is usually a second-degree misdemeanor.
Upgraded to a First-Degree Misdemeanor
Certain factors can make the charge more serious. If you were driving without a valid license or if your license was suspended at the time, your case can be filed as a first-degree misdemeanor. It’s also automatically elevated if you have a past conviction for vehicular homicide, traffic-related manslaughter, or assault involving a vehicle.
Ohio law takes these cases seriously, and details like your driving history or license status can make the outcome much harsher
What Are the Penalties for Vehicular Manslaughter in Dayton, Ohio?
If you are convicted of vehicular manslaughter, the penalties you face can be serious and depend on the circumstances of the offense and your previous record.
Second Degree Misdemeanor
A standard vehicular manslaughter conviction, tied to a minor traffic violation, is usually considered a second-degree misdemeanor. This can lead to up to 90 days in jail. You will also lose your driver’s license for at least six months and possibly for as long as three years.
First Degree Misdemeanor (Enhanced Penalty)
If certain aggravating factors are present, such as driving without a valid license or having past convictions, the charge is increased to a first-degree misdemeanor. You could face up to six months in jail. In these cases, your license suspension will range from one to five years.
The consequences for vehicular manslaughter go beyond time in jail – they affect your ability to drive, your job, and your daily life. Make sure you reach out to a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible.
What Defenses Can Be Raised if I’m Arrested for Vehicular Manslaughter?
If you’ve been charged with vehicular manslaughter in Ohio, you may be able to use one or more of the following defenses to fight back:
Lack of Causation
You might be able to show that your driving did not actually cause the accident or the death. Sometimes, another driver or outside factor was mainly to blame.
No Traffic Violation
If there is not enough proof that you broke any traffic law, this can challenge the charge against you. Not every deadly accident is the result of a traffic offense. Sometimes, unfortunate accidents just happen.
Emergency or Unavoidable Accident
There are cases where something happens that no driver could have prevented, such as sudden medical emergencies or dangerous road conditions. If you can show this is the case, this could lead to a not guilty verdict.
Improper Procedure or Evidence Issues
If police or investigators made mistakes while handling evidence, conducting tests, or preserving the scene, that could raise questions about what really happened.
Speaking with an attorney is the best way to find out what defenses fit your case.
Facing a vehicular manslaughter charge can feel overwhelming and confusing. The steps you take after an arrest matter and can shape the rest of your life. If you need answers or guidance, we are here to listen and help. Contact Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers to schedule a free consultation with a Dayton vehicular manslaughter lawyer.
