What is the Sentence For Killing Someone While Drunk Driving?
Getting behind the wheel of a vehicle when you are intoxicated is considered a serious offense. The punishment for a DUI may vary greatly depending on the circumstances of the case. Typically, DUI drivers are punished more severely than non-DUI drivers. In addition, many states have specific laws regarding DUI-related killings. In some cases, the prosecution will seek to charge the driver with intoxication manslaughter or second-degree murder. These charges are very serious and should be handled by an experienced attorney.
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In California, vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated is a felony. This charge is filed when the prosecutor believes that the defendant acted with reckless disregard for the safety of others. This charge is different from gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, which is a more serious charge. A conviction of gross vehicular manslaughter while drunken driving will result in a prison sentence of up to ten years. The maximum penalty will increase if the death involved gross negligence.
Vehicular manslaughter is a class A felony. If you are charged with vehicular manslaughter, you will face fines, jail time, and license suspension. The exact sentence will vary based on your circumstances, but in most cases, DUI drivers are convicted of vehicular manslaughter in a jail cell for at least eight years. A DUI driver is also subject to a license suspension for at least six months to two years. If you are charged with DUI manslaughter, you may also be required to complete community service or substance abuse treatment.
If you have a prior DUI conviction, you may be charged with gross vehicular manslaughter while Intoxicated. This is a felony charge that can result in a prison sentence of up to six years. You will also be required to pay a fine of up to $1,000. You will also be required to pay your license renewal fee for three years after you are convicted of DUI manslaughter. If you are charged with gross vehicular manslaughter, you must hire an experienced attorney.
If you have a prior DUI, you may be charged with second-degree murder. A conviction of second-degree murder requires the prosecutor to prove that you killed someone while driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. You can also be charged with intoxication manslaughter, which is a misdemeanor. Those charges are based on your BAC level, which is the amount of alcohol in your blood. If you have a prior DUI, you are also considered a habitual violator. This means that you have been arrested three or more times within five years.
If you have a prior DUI, your license may be suspended for at least fifteen years. You will also be subject to a license renewal fee of at least $2,000 each year. You will be required to complete substance abuse treatment or community supervision. Depending on the circumstances of the case, you may also be required to pay a fine of at least $10,000.
If you are charged with a DUI, you should contact a skilled DUI defense attorney as soon as possible. Your attorney can explain your legal options and help you determine the best course of action.