Commerce City Vehicular Assault/Homicide Defense Lawyer
Vehicular assault and vehicular homicide are serious criminal charges in Colorado, involving harm or death caused by reckless or impaired driving. These offenses can carry significant penalties, including incarceration, fines, and a permanent criminal record. If you are facing these charges, having an experienced Commerce City vehicular assault/homicide lawyer is crucial to protecting your rights and navigating the complex legal process.
Penalties for Vehicular Assault and Homicide
The penalties for vehicular assault and homicide depend on various factors, such as intent, level of negligence, and whether substances like alcohol or drugs were involved. Common penalties include:
- Vehicular Assault: Typically charged as a felony, punishments may include 2 to 6 years in prison and fines up to $500,000.
- Vehicular Homicide: A more severe offense, this may result in 4 to 12 years in prison and fines up to $750,000. Aggravating circumstances can lead to longer sentences.
These consequences can have long-lasting effects on your personal and professional life, making legal representation essential.
What to Do If You Are a Suspect
If you are suspected of vehicular assault or homicide, it is critical to take the following steps to protect yourself:
- Do Not Speak Without Legal Counsel: Avoid making statements to law enforcement without a lawyer present.
- Document Everything: Keep track of the incident details, including witnesses and any environmental factors that may have contributed to the accident.
- Contact a Lawyer Immediately: Reach out to an experienced defense attorney to guide you through the process and advocate for your rights.
How the Criminal Court Works in Vehicular Cases
Commerce City vehicular assault and homicide cases are handled in Colorado criminal courts. The process typically involves:
- Arrest and Charges: Law enforcement will formally charge you based on evidence.
- Arraignment: You will enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pretrial Motions and Hearings: Both sides present evidence and arguments, potentially negotiating a plea deal.
- Trial: If no plea agreement is reached, the case proceeds to trial where a judge or jury determines the verdict.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the court imposes penalties based on the circumstances of the case.
An experienced attorney can work to reduce charges, negotiate favorable outcomes, or present a strong defense in court.
Top 10 Neighborhoods in Commerce City
Here are some of the most popular neighborhoods in Commerce City:
- Reunion
- Buffalo Highlands
- Fronterra Village
- Turnberry
- Buckley Ranch
- Southlawn
- Eagle Creek
- Belle Creek
- Irondale
- Prairie Farm
How DeChant Law Can Help
DeChant Law has extensive experience defending clients accused of vehicular crimes. Whether you are facing charges for vehicular assault or homicide, our dedicated legal team will:
- Analyze evidence and identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case
- Advocate for reduced charges or alternative sentencing
- Represent you through every step of the legal process
If you or a loved one needs assistance, a Commerce City vehicular assault and homicide attorney at DeChant Law is ready to provide the skilled and compassionate representation you deserve. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.