Negligent homicide is one offense which has been subject to a number of legislation changes over the past few years, and in many cases this can make it confusing to understand what the charge even is, as well as what the maximum penalties may be. When one person’s reckless or negligent driving causes the death of another person, serious criminal penalties can result. Previously, these offenses were punished as “negligent homicide” which was a serious misdemeanor. Now, negligent homicide offenses can be punished under laws for moving violation causing death, or reckless driving causing death, which could lead to either misdemeanor or felony conviction. The specific details of a Detroit negligent homicide case will largely determine what laws and legal issues are in play, but no matter what it is always essential to work with an experienced Detroit violent crimes defense lawyer who knows what it takes to protect clients in even the most serious cases. Grabel & Associates is committed to protecting the accused in motor vehicle homicide cases, and we have dealt with negligent homicide, reckless driving, and moving violation charges. Contact our firm now for a free initial case consultation and learn more about how your specific case could be affected by Detroit law.
With trial lawyer Scott Grabel on your side, you instantly gain access to a wealth of knowledge surrounding criminal law and the Detroit justice system. For over a decade, Scott Grabel has worked alongside a skilled team of defenders to provide premier defense to clients who are facing all types of misdemeanor or felony charges. We know what it takes to achieve exceptional case outcomes and are committed to doing everything in our power to guide you or your loved one to a beneficial result. Contact our team as soon as possible so that we can begin protecting your rights and advising you on the best next steps to take in your fight for justice. Our Detroit negligent homicide defense lawyers are available 24/7 to begin working with clients who are facing charges of moving violation or reckless driving causing death.
Under the now repealed law pertaining to negligent homicide, anyone who operated a motor vehicle upon any public or private property at an immoderate rate of speed or in an otherwise negligent or reckless manner and thereby unintentionally caused the death of another person could face up to 2 years in prison and a $2,000 fine. This section was repealed in 2010, and these offenses are now grouped into either moving violation causing death or reckless driving causing death legislation.
According to Section 257.601d of the Vehicle Code, anyone who commits a moving violation that causes the death of another person can face up to a year in prison and a $2,000 fine, along with a misdemeanor record. Causing impairment of a body function but not death can lead to 93 days behind bars and a $500 fine. As defined by this section, a moving violation refers to any act prohibited under the vehicle code or municipal law which involves the operation of a motor vehicle, and for which a fine might be assessed. This excludes motor vehicle offenses that would be otherwise punished under criminal law, and result in more than just a fine.
Under Section 257.626 of the Vehicle Code, anyone who operates a vehicle in any public place (including parking lots) in willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property and who thereby causes the death of another individual is guilty of a felony which could lead to up to 15 years behind bars and a fine of between $2,500 and $10,000. This section is distinct from moving violation law, and includes the stipulation that the jury shall not be instructed regarding the crime of moving violation causing death in these cases.
The attorneys at Grabel & Associates are committed to doing whatever it takes to protect those accused of serious motor vehicle crime offenses, including reckless driving and moving violations causing death, formerly referred to as negligent homicide. Contact our firm right away and begin to receive guidance concerning your unique situation.
Call 1-800-342-7896 now for a free initial case consultation, and learn more about the steps you need to take in order to protect yourself or your loved one from serious criminal penalties. We are also available through the online contact form. Fight back now with the experienced team at Grabel & Associates on your side, call or contact us online to learn more.