DUI Manslaughter in Minnesota

Minnesota is a state known for its outdoor adventures, world-class shopping, and much more. Unfortunately, the state is also known for having a lot of drivers who have been convicted of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Some of these individuals were charged with DUI manslaughter, also known as criminal vehicular homicide, after being involved in an accident that police believe was caused by their impairment and resulted in the death of someone else.

DUI manslaughter in Minnesota is an extremely serious charge that can lead to imprisonment, fines, and much more upon conviction. If you have been charged with this crime,  it is important to speak with an experienced DUI attorney who could help you understand your rights, explore potential defense strategies, and help you navigate the criminal justice process.

What Are the Consequences of DUI Manslaughter?

Vehicular homicide can be charged when officers have reason to believe that an individual was operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs, and their impairment directly led to an accident in which someone was killed. This charge typically carries a sentence of up to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $20,000. Other potential consequences for this felony charge include revocation of a person’s driver’s license and a permanent criminal record that can cause problems with college admissions, housing, and even employment in the future. Additionally, the conviction stays on the person’s driving record for ten years, and if they are convicted of another alcohol-related offense during that time, they face more severe consequences as repeat offenders.

Being convicted of DUI manslaughter can also leave an individual in Minnesota vulnerable to a lawsuit by the family members of the individual who died in the accident, as the conviction and court record can be used as evidence in a civil case. This can result in financial consequences. This is why it is crucial to enlist the help of a lawyer to increase your chances of avoiding a conviction.

How a Lawyer Can Help Individuals Charged with DUI Manslaughter

An experienced defense lawyer has an important role in a DUI manslaughter case in Minnesota. Not only are they a source of information and legal guidance for their client, but they can also provide services aimed at avoiding a conviction, if possible, and limiting the consequences of the charge.

One of the important services a lawyer and their legal team provide is an investigation of the investigators in the case. They look for irregularities or inconsistencies in the testing that was done and other evidence held by the police. Based on the facts of this investigation and the defendant’s personal goals for their case, they could determine the best way to proceed. In some cases, this may mean negotiating a plea bargain, while in other cases, it might mean seeking a dismissal of the case or even fighting the charge in a trial.

Hire a Minnesota Attorney If You Have Been Accused of DUI Manslaughter

The legal understanding, experience, and compassion of the lawyer you choose to defend you can make all the difference in a DUI manslaughter case. The legal team at BK Law Group has a client-centered approach, in which legal strategies are formed around the specific and unique facts of the case, as well as the client’s desired outcome. Let our team help ensure that you are treated fairly during the criminal process, help you understand your rights, and determine your next steps forward in your case. Contact us for a consultation today to learn more about how we could protect your freedom after being charged with DUI manslaughter in Minnesota.