Some motor vehicle-related offenses, such as DUIs, can be charged as misdemeanors for first-time offenders. Vehicular homicide also referred to as Manslaughter with a motor vehicle is a more serious offense that can be charged as a felony in Connecticut. Those convicted of manslaughter with a motor vehicle face lengthy jail times, receive a lengthy driver’s license suspension or revocation, and significant fines. If you have been arrested for vehicular homicide, it is crucial that you contact an aggressive attorney as soon as possible who can begin fighting for your rights, freedom, and future.

At The Kaloidis Law Firm, LLC, we have decades of combined experience aggressively advocating for those charged with various crimes, including vehicular homicide and vehicular assault. After we thoroughly investigate the circumstances of the alleged offense, we will determine the best defense strategy possible. Vehicular homicide is often related to drunk driving, reckless driving, or aggressive driving. If you are facing these charges, you could face a significant prison sentence. Working with an experienced attorney can help you protect yourself. The attorneys at The Kaloidis Law Firm, LLC will negotiate aggressively on your behalf, pursuing the best possible outcome in your case.

Understanding Vehicular Manslaughter Charges in Connecticut

Under Connecticut Law, vehicular manslaughter is considered a type of second-degree manslaughter. According to Connecticut General Statutes § 53a-56b, an individual commits vehicular manslaughter when he or she “1) operates a motor vehicle under the influence of liquor drugs, or both and 2) causes the death of another due to the effect of the liquor or drugs.” According to this statute, a person who caused an accident which resulted in a loss of life who has any illegal substance in his or her blood can be a risk of being charged with vehicular manslaughter.

A motor vehicle can include any car, truck, motorcycle, or any other type of motorized vehicle. The definition of liquor is broad and does not solely include spirits but any alcoholic beverage, such as beer or wine. The term drugs is a catch-all term that includes marijuana, whether legal or illegal, illegal narcotics, and prescription medications that impair your ability to drive.

Defining the terms liquor, motor vehicle, and drugs is often an important aspect of a defendant’s legal defense. Our attorneys are always prepared to review, assess, and defend your case.

Defenses to Vehicular Manslaughter Charges in Connecticut

The best legal defense for your case will depend on the specific circumstances of the accident that resulted in the death. It will also depend on the police officer’s investigation of the accident. Defendants have a constitutional right to be free from illegal searches and seizures. Suppose the law enforcement officer violated your constitutional rights when taking a breathalyzer or blood test. In that case, your attorney might be able to move to suppress the evidence gained, leading to dismissal in your case. Your attorney may be able to prove that you were not under the influence of drugs or alcohol when the accident occurred. Our attorneys are trained in the administration of the Standardized Field Sobriety Tests and can attack the officers obscurely.

Additionally, you may be able to show that you are driving under the influence was not the direct or proximate cause of the death. In many cases, prosecutors will bring charges knowing they have shaky evidence or do not have enough evidence to prove every element of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. The attorneys at The Kaloidis Law Firm, LLC will work diligently to find conclusions any and all the holes in the prosecution’s case so we can negotiate the best outcome possible, whether that is a dismissal of the charges against you, a plea to reduced charges, or a great defense at trial.

Discuss Your Case with Experienced Trial Lawyers Who are Ready to Fight for YouThe penalty for vehicular manslaughter in Connecticut is serious and could result in a lengthy jail time. If you have been charged with vehicular manslaughter, The Kaloidis Law Firm, LLC attorneys are prepared to fight for you. We represent clients in Waterbury and throughout Connecticut. Contact The Kaloidis Law Firm, LLC, today to schedule an initial consultation.