The thought of making a mistake and critically, or even fatally, injuring someone as a result, is devastating. That said, cases involving vehicular homicide are not entirely rare, and if you are someone who is currently facing a homicide DUI charge in the state of Pennsylvania, you’re most likely overwhelmed at the potential impact a conviction could have on your future. That said, everyone is entitled to representation, and our seasoned Allegheny County DUI lawyer is here to fight for your future, every step of the way. Read on and reach out to the Law Offices of George Heym to learn more about these charges and what we can do for you. Here are some of the questions you may have:
How long could I go to jail for a homicide DUI charge in PA?
The first thing you should understand is that if you are accused of causing the death of another person due to being impaired by drugs or alcohol, you will likely face Homicide by vehicle while DUI charges. This is a second-degree felony. Upon conviction, you will face a three to six-year mandatory minimum prison sentence and anywhere up to ten years of incarceration, as well as a potential $25,000 fine.
You should also note that if you are convicted of causing the death of multiple people as a result of vehicular homicide while under the influence, the district attorney presiding over your case can bring a separate count of homicide while under the influence for each case, which will result in you facing even harsher penalties.
What about if I injured someone while driving under the influence?
While injuring someone while under the influence of drugs or alcohol isn’t always prosecuted quite as harshly as causing the death of another person due to driving while intoxicated (since there is no minimum required amount of jail time), you can still expect to face significant consequences. To start, you will not be charged with vehicular homicide, but you will likely face an aggravated assault charge, which can also warrant a maximum of 10 years of incarceration and a potential $25,000 fine.
The bottom line is that if you’re currently facing DUI charges of any kind, even those not involving the injury or death of another person, it is of paramount importance that you have a competent attorney in your corner to defend you. The Law Offices of George Heym is a dedicated legal representative of all those facing DUI charges in the state of Pennsylvania, and we are here to help you as well. Contact us today so you can tell us your story and so we can get working on your case.
