The Law Offices of Scott David Stewart
Phoenix Vehicular Homicide Defense Lawyers
Car accidents that result in death may lead to a charge of vehicular homicide or manslaughter. In cases where a driver tests positive for drugs or fails a DUI test, prosecutors will usually enter a charge of either negligent homicide or manslaughter. As your criminal defense attorneys, the Law Offices of Scott David Stewart immediately investigates the scene of an accident, conducts its own lab tests on blood available blood samples, and gathers eye-witness testimony. We carefully review police reports and, consulting with accident reconstructionists, identify inconsistencies between available evidence and reports filed by law enforcement officers.
We aggressively defend our clients using legal tools and expert resources that undermine the prosecution’s claims. To discuss your case and schedule a free consultation, contact a vehicular homicide defense lawyer at the Law Office of Scott David Stewart today. Located in Phoenix, we represent clients in Tempe, Mesa, Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Chandler, and throughout Maricopa County.
When Car Accidents Result in Loss of Life
The criminal defense attorneys at the Law Offices of Scott David Stewart represent clients charged with the following:
- Negligent homicide
- Second degree murder
- Vehicular manslaughter
Understanding Intent
While the dividing line isn’t always clear, the difference between a charge of homicide and manslaughter typically depends on whether prosecutors believe a driver engaged in life-threatening or reckless behavior they should have reasonably known to be a threat to others. In cases involving second degree murder, the prosecution must prove that a driver knowingly and intentionally caused the death of another person, exhibiting an indifference to life and the well-being of others.
In cases involving vehicular manslaughter, prosecutors must establish the existence of reckless behavior which a driver should have reasonably known was a threat to others. That’s why when drugs or alcohol are involved in an accident a charge of manslaughter or negligent homicide often results: a reasonable person knows drinking and driving or using drugs decreases their ability to drive safely.
Defending Our Clients
Our criminal defense attorneys not only analyze the specifics of an accident but thoroughly address the issue of intent because the degree of homicide or manslaughter charged will depend on establishing intent. Even though we may not be able to have the charges against you dismissed or prevent you from going to jail on a lesser charge, we may be able to reduce the severity of a charge and the penalties entered against you.
Whatever the circumstances of your case, we aggressively defend your rights and seek the best results for you. To learn more about our practice and how we can help you, contact a Phoenix vehicular homicide defense lawyer at the Law Offices of Scott David Stewart today.
