If you have been charged with DWI involving someone’s death, it is imperative to seek immediate legal counsel.
Texas is tough on drunk driving to begin with, but penalties for DWI leading to death can be particularly devastating.
As with most criminal offenses, the penalties for DWI leading to someone’s death vary greatly depending on the unique circumstances of the offense and whether or not the individual has a prior criminal record.
When serious bodily injury is involved in a DWI, the victim(s) sometimes succumb to injuries after a period of time in critical condition or on life support.
In other cases, loss of life is immediate.
Charges will depend on the severity of injuries suffered, as well as many other circumstances surrounding the DWI.
Houston Aggravated Battery While DWI
If a DWI results in an accident that causes serious bodily injury, the driver may be charged with Aggravated Battery While DWI.
In many cases, this is the initial charge when the victim is in critical condition or placed on life support.
A conviction for this felony offense could cost you thousands and put you behind bars for years.
If you have been charged with any type of DWI, a Kingwood DWI attorney can help you determine how to proceed.
Houston Intoxication Manslaughter
If DWI leads to someone’s death, whether immediately or after a period of hospitalization, intoxication manslaughter charges may follow.
It’s important to note that you don’t even have to have been at fault for the accident; if you were drunk and someone was killed, you can be charged with intoxication manslaughter.
While murder requires a motive or premeditation, manslaughter is not an intentional act.
Rather, the victim’s death must be due to “criminal negligence,” which is loosely defined as extremely reckless behavior performed without regard for the safety of others.
Driving while intoxicated falls into the category of criminal negligence.
Penalties for Intoxication Manslaughter in Houston
It should come as no surprise that a conviction of intoxication manslaughter in Texas carries penalties that are significantly more severe than those for regular DWI without aggravating circumstances.
As a second-degree felony in Texas, intoxication manslaughter carries a fine of up to $10,0000, a community service requirement of a minimum of 240 hours, and a prison sentence of up to 20 years.
Contact the Law Office of Andrew J. Williams Today
If you have been charged with intoxication manslaughter or any other DWI-related offense, the skilled legal team at the Law Office of Andrew J. Williams can help.
We have successfully defended countless clients against these and similar charges, and we have an impressive track record of getting clients’ charges reduced.
Do not make the mistake of trying to cut costs when hiring a lawyer to defend you against intoxication manslaughter or aggravated assault while DWI.
When it comes to drunk driving offenses in Kingwood, the right legal counsel can make all the difference in the world.
Contact the Law Office of Andrew J. Williams today at 281-358-9111 for a free and confidential consultation about your case.
