DeSoto County DUI Manslaughter Lawyer 

Fighting DUI Manslaughter Charges in Mississippi 

At Hayes Law Firm, our dedicated team of legal professionals stands ready to provide you with expert representation if you face DUI manslaughter charges in Mississippi. We understand the gravity of your situation and are committed to protecting your rights and defending your case vigorously. 

Call Hayes Law Firm today at (662) 503-8409 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our DUI manslaughter lawyer in Desoto County!

What is DUI Manslaughter?

DUI manslaughter, also known as vehicular homicide in some jurisdictions, is a grave criminal offense that involves causing the death of another person while operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. In Mississippi, the law treats DUI manslaughter as a distinct and severe crime, separate from regular DUI (Driving Under the Influence) charges. To secure a conviction for DUI manslaughter, the prosecution must establish that:

• The defendant was operating a motor vehicle while under alcohol or drugs.
• While under the influence, the defendant caused an accident that resulted in the death of another person.

It is crucial to note that Mississippi has a strict stance on DUI offenses, especially those involving fatalities. Prosecutors will aggressively pursue DUI manslaughter cases; you may face severe consequences if convicted.

What are the Penalties for DUI Manslaughter in Mississippi? 

If you are convicted of DUI manslaughter in Desoto County, Mississippi, the penalties are severe and can have a lasting impact on your life. These penalties may include:

• Imprisonment: A conviction for DUI manslaughter can result in a lengthy prison sentence. Your sentence length will depend on various factors, including your criminal record and the case's circumstances. You may sometimes be sentenced to several years or even decades in prison.
• Fines: You may be ordered to pay substantial fines besides imprisonment. These fines can place a significant financial burden on you and your family.
• Probation: In some cases, the court may impose probation as part of your sentence. While on probation, you will be subject to strict conditions and supervision.
• License Suspension: A DUI manslaughter conviction will almost certainly result in the suspension of your driver's license. The length of the suspension will vary, but it can be substantial, making it difficult to maintain employment and meet daily responsibilities.
• Criminal Record: A conviction for DUI manslaughter will result in a permanent criminal record. This can have long-lasting consequences, affecting your employment prospects, housing opportunities, and more.
• Restitution: You may be required to pay restitution to the victim's family to compensate them for their losses, including medical expenses, funeral costs, and other damages.
• Ignition Interlock Device: The court may require installing an ignition interlock device on your vehicle, which measures your blood alcohol content (BAC) before allowing the vehicle to start.

Defenses Against DUI Manslaughter Charges

Facing DUI manslaughter charges can be overwhelming, but it's essential to remember that potential defenses can be explored to challenge the allegations. Some common defenses include:

• Lack of Evidence: Your attorney may challenge the prosecution's case by questioning the sufficiency and reliability of the evidence against you. This could include challenging the accuracy of blood alcohol tests or the chain of custody of evidence.
• Procedural Errors: Your lawyer can review the procedures followed during your arrest and the subsequent investigation. If law enforcement officers violate your rights or fail to follow proper procedures, it may lead to the suppression of evidence or dismissal of charges.
• Alternative Explanations: Your attorney may present alternative explanations for the accident, such as challenging the causation element of the DUI manslaughter charge.
• Mistaken Identity: In some cases, mistaken identity can be a defense if it can be shown that you were not the driver responsible for the accident.

Contact Our Desoto County DUI Manslaughter Attorney

DUI manslaughter charges are severe and can have life-altering consequences. At Hayes Law Firm, our Desoto County DUI manslaughter lawyers are committed to providing you with the strong defense you need during this challenging time. We will explore every possible avenue to protect your rights, challenge the evidence against you, and seek the best possible outcome for your case. If you or a loved one is facing DUI manslaughter charges in Mississippi, do not hesitate to contact our experienced legal team. 

Contact Hayes Law Firm today to schedule a consultation with our DUI manslaughter attorney in Desoto County!