I Crashed My Car into Another Car After a Night of Drinking and Now Someone is Dead – What Are My Options in Marietta, Georgia?

There is no doubt that for virtually every driver in Marietta, being involved in a fatal car accident after a night of drinking is a life-altering event. Indeed, if you were behind the wheel and another person lost their life in a crash that occurred under the influence of alcohol, you are likely facing not only criminal charges but also deep emotional consequences, including regret, guilt, and despair. The plain and simple fact is that In Marietta, Georgia, DUI-related fatal crashes are treated with the utmost seriousness, and the legal penalties can be extremely harsh. However, understanding your options and acting quickly can make a difference in the outcome of your case. To help individuals in Marietta who have been involved in deadly, DUI-involved car accidents better understand their rights and options, we explain more about vehicular homicide under Georgia laws, and where to turn for legal help here.

The Legal Framework of Vehicular Homicide in Marietta Under Georgia Criminal Laws

It is important for individuals in Marietta to know that in Georgia, causing a death while driving under the influence may lead to a charge of vehicular homicide, specifically first-degree vehicular homicide. Under O.C.G.A. § 40-6-393(a), “Any person who, without malice aforethought, causes the death of another person through the violation of [Georgia’s DUI laws] commits the offense of homicide by vehicle in the first degree and, upon conviction thereof, shall be punished by imprisonment for not less than three years nor more than 15 years.” Critically, this charge can apply when someone causes a fatal crash while committing a serious traffic offense such as DUI, reckless driving, or fleeing police. It is a felony and carries severe penalties, including a possible prison sentence of three to 15 years per count. In addition, if more than one person was killed or injured, the potential prison time could increase significantly.

Getting Legal Help in Marietta – Marietta DUI Defense Lawyer

As demonstrated, there is no question that DUI offenses, and especially those resulting in the death of another person, are treated with great seriousness by Marietta courts. Accordingly, the first step you should take if you were charged with a DUI in Marietta is to speak with an experienced Marietta DUI defense lawyer who has handled serious DUI and vehicular homicide cases. An experienced Marietta DUI defense lawyer can help you understand the charges you are facing, protect your rights, and begin building a defense strategy in your case. They can also advise you on how to handle interactions with police and prosecutors and may explore whether your constitutional rights were violated during the investigation, or if there are other defenses.

If you are in the Marietta area and you need legal help with your Marietta DUI case, contact the experienced Marietta DUI defense lawyers at Arca Law. Contact Arca Law today and speak to a lawyer about your case now.