Fort Collins Vehicle Manslaughter and Homicide Lawyer

EFFECTIVE CRIMINAL DEFENSE STRATEGIES
A vehicular homicide or vehicular assault charge can arise after a traffic accident involving drug or alcohol alcohol use or reckless driving. Being under the influence and having a minor fender bender will get you arrested for a DUI. However, if you’re under the influence and cause serious bodily injury or death to another in the accident, it now becomes a felony offense. These offenses can be problematic for individuals as there is significant public awareness not to drink and drive for the simple reason you may hurt someone. As a Fort Collins attorney experienced in vehicular assault and vehicular homicide cases, I am here to be your voice and advocate. If you or someone you love has been arrested for vehicular assault or vehicular homicide, please contact me at your earliest convenience so I can begin immediately assisting you with your case. I am Lee E. Christian and I am dedicated to providing experienced counsel and advocacy to criminal defendants involving vehicular homicide and vehicular assault.
What is vehicular assault or vehicular homicide?

What is Vehicular Assault or Vehicular Homicide?

Vehicular assault is a crime that involves serious bodily injury to another as a result of either reckless driving or driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. Vehicular homicide is a crime that involves death of another as a result of either reckless driving or driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. These are felony charges and are very serious. Both vehicular assault and vehicular homicide carry significant penalties both in court and with the Department of Motor Vehicles. As your attorney, I’m here to listen, understand your position and be your advocate in assisting you overcome this charge. I will complete an investigation on your behalf, review police reports, interview relevant witnesses and do my best to build a compelling defense for you. If relevant we will challenge the underlying DUI charge. Remember it is important to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible to preserve evidence in your case.

Complex Cases Demand Experienced, Thoughtful Advocacy

With 35 years of criminal law experience, I know how difficult these cases can be. Most clients are dealing with an array of emotions that leads them to feel confused, scared and frustrated with the criminal justice system. I will do what I can to ease your emotional trauma and work diligently on the legal matter. As your attorney, I will be here to answer your questions, guide you through the obstacles, protect your rights and be your advocate through the legal system. My goal is to give you the opportunity to live your life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Vehicular manslaughter involves causing the death of another person through reckless or negligent driving, but without intent to kill. Vehicular homicide, while also resulting in death, often involves more severe circumstances such as driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or with extreme recklessness. Both are serious felony charges, but vehicular homicide typically carries harsher penalties due to the aggravated nature of the offense. Understanding these distinctions can help in forming a defense strategy based on the specifics of the case. In Fort Collins, our defense attorneys specialize in these serious charges and work diligently to protect your rights and build a strong defense.
Hiring a defense attorney for a vehicular manslaughter charge is crucial as they can navigate the legal complexities and advocate on your behalf. We conduct thorough investigations, gather evidence, and interview witnesses to build a robust defense. Our attorney can challenge the prosecution's case, negotiate plea deals, and aim to reduce charges or penalties. Our expertise ensures your rights are protected throughout the legal process. Early consultation with an attorney is essential to preserve evidence and mount an effective defense. This professional support increases the chances of a favorable outcome, whether it's a reduced sentence or an acquittal.
In Colorado, penalties for vehicular homicide can include significant prison time, fines, and revocation of driving privileges. The severity of the penalties depends on whether the offense involved reckless driving or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. For example, vehicular homicide while under the influence is considered a Class 3 felony, which can result in 4 to 12 years in prison and fines up to $750,000. Additionally, there may be mandatory parole and other long-term consequences. Our defense attorneys in Fort Collins are dedicated to minimizing these penalties and protecting your future through skilled legal representation.
In Colorado, vehicular assault is typically charged as a felony if it involves reckless driving or driving under the influence. Prosecutors examine blood alcohol levels, driving behavior, and accident circumstances. The severity of the victim’s injuries also influences charges. Even without alcohol, reckless disregard for safety can lead to felony charges. A strong defense challenges the evidence of recklessness or intoxication. Reducing charges often hinges on disputing these elements.
Yes, but the prosecution must prove your driving caused or contributed substantially to the death. Even if the victim had medical issues, your actions may still be deemed the primary cause. Defense attorneys often argue that the death was unavoidable due to the victim’s condition. Medical experts may be called to testify about the true cause of death. This can create reasonable doubt in court. Establishing causation is critical in defending these cases.
Yes. Colorado law typically mandates ignition interlock devices for individuals convicted of DUI-related offenses, including those tied to vehicular assault. The length of use depends on the severity of the offense and prior history. These devices prevent a vehicle from starting if alcohol is detected on your breath. Failure to comply can result in further penalties or extended restrictions. While inconvenient, compliance is necessary to regain driving privileges. A defense attorney can advise on options to minimize restrictions.
A defense attorney in a vehicular manslaughter case can provide critical assistance by thoroughly investigating the incident, gathering and analyzing evidence, and identifying potential defenses. They can negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or plea deals, aiming to minimize penalties. The attorney will represent you in court, presenting a strong defense to challenge the prosecution's case. Our expertise ensures your rights are protected throughout the legal process, potentially reducing the impact of the charges on your life. In Fort Collins, our attorneys have the expertise to handle complex vehicular manslaughter cases, ensuring that your rights are protected and working towards the best possible outcome. If you need help, don't hesitate to reach out to us.

Additional Information in Fort Collins

Colorado Department of Transportation - Impaired Driving: Detailed information on the dangers and consequences of impaired driving, including statistics and safety campaigns like "The Heat Is On." It offers resources on planning sober rides and tips for hosting parties responsibly. The site also details DUI laws, BAC limits, and enforcement efforts to reduce impaired driving incidents. This information can be crucial in a vehicular homicide defense case by highlighting the importance of understanding impairment effects, legal limits, and the state's commitment to preventing impaired driving.
U.S. Department of Transportation - National Roadway Safety Strategy: Comprehensive approach to reducing serious injuries and deaths on U.S. roadways. It emphasizes the Safe System Approach, focusing on safer people, roads, vehicles, speeds, and post-crash care. It highlights the need for collaboration among various stakeholders and introduces measures like improved road design, advanced vehicle safety technologies, and better emergency response. This document aids in vehicular homicide cases by providing data, safety standards, and strategies that can be used to argue for safer road environments and practices.
National Safety Council - Motor Vehicle; Injury Facts: Comprehensive statistics and analysis on motor vehicle-related injuries and fatalities in the United States. It covers trends in motor vehicle deaths, injury costs, and comparisons over time. The site highlights the significant decrease in motor-vehicle-related fatalities per registered vehicle over the past century. This information can be instrumental in a vehicular homicide case by providing context on driving risks, trends, and the impact of safety measures, supporting arguments for safer driving practices and policies.
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Jon’s a good friend of mine. I hired him to handle my personal injury case. When I told him the insurance company hadn’t offered anything (including to pay my hospital bills), he was taken aback. He handled the case from beginning to end and we settled with the insurance company for $50,000.
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Contact A Fort Collins Attorney That Cares

Thank you for your interest and considering for using Lee E. Christian Law, for your legal representation needs. I encourage you to reach out to me with any questions you may have. As an attorney that cares, I want to see all of our clients’ lives move beyond the temporary pain of legal action.

If you'd like to schedule a free consultation, please give me a call using the contact information below. I look forward to helping you.

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(970) 484-0300
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WEEKENDS: By Appointment
Lee Christian Law
Helping clients in FORT COLLINS and throughout Northern Colorado.
Address:
415 Mason Ct,
Fort Collins, CO 80524, USA
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