Vehicular Assault Reckless Driving Charges

Vehicular Assault Reckless Driving Charges

Attorneys Will Build Your Defense Against Vehicular Assault, Vehicular Homicide or Manslaughter Charges.

It only takes a moment for everything to change forever.

This is especially true when it comes to vehicular crimes. It is rare that a defendant sets out to use a vehicle to harm another person. However, even when injury or death of one or more persons is deemed an accident, the result is no less devastating. New York State takes vehicular crimes very seriously.

Vehicular Crimes in New York State

In NY, a vehicular crime is a violent offense, and almost always charged as a felony. A charge does not always result in a conviction, especially when a qualified attorney that understands the charges is able to mount a strong defense.

A conviction will not only give you a criminal record and land you in prison for a considerable length of time; you could also face a civil suit filed by the injured, or their loved ones.

The first thing you should do when you, or a loved one are arrested for any vehicular crime is to hire an experienced criminal defense lawyer.

What is Vehicular Assault?

Vehicular assault is a crime where a motor vehicle is used as a weapon to cause harm to a person.

What is Vehicular Manslaughter?

Vehicular manslaughter is charged when a motor vehicle is used as a weapon to result in death.

DWI, DWAI, DUI, and Vehicular Crimes

A vehicle is essentially any motor-driven mode of transportation; car, truck, motorcycle, snowmobile, boat, or other modes of transportation.

Primary offenses under New York State Traffic Law include the driver of a vehicle found to be under the influence of alcohol, drugs or controlled substances, DWI, DWAI, or using mobile communications such as phone calls and texting while driving.

Penalties for Vehicular Crimes in New York State

In NY State, the sentencing of a vehicular crime conviction will depend on a variety of factors, including but not limited to; prior arrests or convictions of any felony or DWI/DWAI charges.

Sentencing for a conviction will likely be impacted by predicate (previous) charges and convictions. The possibility of additional charges and potential impact on your life makes hiring an experienced, local criminal defense lawyer incredibly important.

E. Stewart Jones is an award-winning law firm comprised of experienced and compassionate lawyers and professional legal staff ready to fight for you in every phase of vehicular charges.

Deciding Whether to Plead Guilty or Not Guilty to Vehicular Assault or Manslaughter

In a vehicular assault case, the prosecution (NY State) must prove that the defendant caused serious bodily injury to another person while operating a motor vehicle in violation of New York Vehicle and Traffic Law Section 1192 (accusing the defendant of operating a vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, texting or talking on the phone).

In a vehicular manslaughter case, the prosecution (NY State) must prove that either the defendant was operating a motor vehicle in violation of Section 1192 and, as a result, caused the death of another person; or that the defendant otherwise met the requirements of Section 125.12 (accusing the defendant of intoxication and reckless operation of a vehicle, snowmobile or a vehicle weighing an excess of 18,000 pounds transporting hazardous materials). This would include death caused by driver distraction while texting or making phone calls while driving.

An experienced Criminal Defense Attorney will guide you through the plea process, advising you to make the correct statement, and being prepared to mount a strong defense to support that plea.

Our attorneys work very hard to negotiate toward charges being dismissed or reduced to a lesser charge. If a conviction is unavoidable, they will fight to reduce prison time, fines, and penalties.

Discovery

Vehicular assault and manslaughter cases are typically products of lengthy forensic inspections of the vehicle. Now that texting and cellphone conversations that are not hands-free being illegal in the State of New York, it may also be necessary for phone records and inspections of wireless devices to be ordered.

The information collected, and its legal presentation to the court can have a significant impact on your case. An experienced defense attorney knows the laws of discovery and will work hard to ensure the information collected and shared does not exceed the parameters of the law, and will be able to identify flaws or inconsistencies of that data in your defense.

Witnesses

Expert and witness testimony of injury or death of a person can be extremely powerful. A witness can be helpful to the prosecution or the defense. An experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer will have the ability to present a compelling defense that will successfully outline the witness testimony for the judge or jury.

Preserve the Future

With the future on the line, you will want to hire the best attorney you can afford to represent you.

As one of the most respected law firms in New York State, Hacker Murphy Law offers quality legal representation and reasonable fees. Hiring our firm is usually comparable to most other criminal defense lawyers in the region, who may have a less criminal defense or court-room experience. When doing your research, make sure to ask questions, get fee quotes, and compare everything “apples-to-apples” in the end. You may be surprised to learn that more experience doesn’t always mean more expensive.

Facing Vehicular Assault or Manslaughter Charges? Speak with our attorneys today.

Hacker Murphy also represents clients with the following criminal charges:

Request a Free Phone Consultation or a confidential in-person meeting with an attorney at one of our convenient Capital Region offices in Albany, Schenectady, Troy, and Saratoga Springs.

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I utilized the services of James Knox to help on a complaint against my license. This was my first time ever needing an attorney and he was open and honest throughout the proceedings. He explained how the process works and made sure I understood each step as it went on. The entire process lasted over 3 years, and James kept in touch with me as updates rolled in. Ultimately I was exonerated and I have James to thank as a big reason why.

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Mr James Knox was my criminal attorney. I made a simple but stupid mistake which unbeknownst to myself, broke the law and was a felony which got reduced to a misdemeanor. He was confident from start to finish that he could keep me out of jail, He did. I ended up paying a fine. I highly recommend this firm and Mr. Knox, especially. He knows what he is doing. He is highly practiced and he cares. He was always happy to speak with me during his months working with me.

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Ms. Julie Nociolo provided exceptional legal representation and demonstrated unparalleled expertise and dedication. Ms. Nociolo possesses a deep understanding of the law, which she leverages with a strategic and thoughtful approach. Her ability to navigate complex legal challenges with ease and confidence was remarkable and gave me a sense of security during a tumultuous time. Ms. Nociolo's commitment to my case was evident in her meticulous attention to detail, thorough preparation, and proactive communication. She consistently kept me informed of developments in my case, ensuring that I was fully aware of my options and the potential implications of each decision. Her guidance was invaluable, enabling me to make informed decisions with a clear understanding of the legal landscape. Moreover, Ms. Nociolo's compassion and empathy provided comfort and support. She recognized the emotional toll legal proceedings can take and went above and beyond to ensure I felt heard, understood, and respected throughout the process. I am deeply grateful for Ms. Nociolo's tireless efforts on my behalf. Her exceptional legal acumen and genuine concern for clients set her apart as a distinguished attorney. I strongly recommend Ms. Nociolo to anyone in need of legal representation. Her expertise, dedication, and compassion are commendable, and I am immensely thankful for her support and guidance.

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Have Questions?

If I hire an attorney but do not want to go to trial, can I settle?

In the course of preparing a case for trial, your personal injury attorney will work with the defense attorneys and insurance companies in an effort to secure a fair settlement for you and your family. The final decision to accept an offer of settlement or go to trial is yours alone to make.
Contact us now to discuss your case with one of our experienced attorneys.
If arrested, what steps can I take on my behalf?

1. Do not discuss your situation with anyone except your attorney.
2. Unless your attorney says otherwise, do not discuss your case with law enforcement.
3. Request to have your attorney present if you are to be put in a lineup or subjected to testing.
4. Remain calm and courteous. Allow your attorney to speak for you to ensure that your rights are protected and you are given all the benefits afforded to you under the law.
Contact us now to discuss your case with one of our experienced attorneys.
What is the difference between criminal procedure and civil procedure?

When a crime has been committed, action is taken by a government agency against the person, persons, organization or other entity that violated the law. The first purpose of a criminal prosecution is punishment, which frequently consists of a fine or jail time. In a civil matter, the dispute is between two or more individuals or entities. The first purpose of a civil prosecution is obtaining compensation for the wronged person or entity. Settlement in a civil matter is generally an award of a money judgment. A criminal sentence is not imposed in a civil matter.
Contact us now to discuss your case with one of our experienced attorneys.

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