Tacoma, WA Vehicular Homicide Defense Attorney

Aggressive Defense Lawyer for People Facing Vehicular Homicide Charges in Tacoma

A death connected to a car accident in Washington state could lead to criminal charges. If you have been accused of causing the death of another person through your conduct behind the wheel, you need a strong defense. Consider working with a Tacoma, Washington vehicular homicide defense lawyer who can review your case and advise you of your options.

At The Law Office of Michael Austin Stewart Criminal Defense Lawyer, we have experience representing clients accused of vehicular homicide and similar crimes like felony DUI. Attorney Michael Austin Stewart has represented clients in criminal cases for over 30 years, giving him keen insights into how to fight these charges, pursuing reduced charges or dismissals in each case.

Defining Vehicular Homicide in Washington State

Vehicular homicide is one of the most serious driving-related offenses in Washington. The charge applies when the state claims that a person caused another person's death while operating a motor vehicle under circumstances the law treats as criminal.

A person may face vehicular homicide charges if prosecutors allege that the death occurred while the driver was under the influence of alcohol or drugs, drove in a reckless manner, or drove with disregard for the safety of others. These cases may arise after crashes involving cars, trucks, motorcycles, pedestrians, cyclists, or passengers.

What Are the Penalties for Vehicular Homicide?

Vehicular homicide is a Class A felony in Washington. A conviction can carry up to life in prison and a fine of up to $50,000. When the allegation involves driving under the influence, prior qualifying offenses may add additional prison time.

The actual sentence depends on the facts of the crash, the person's criminal history, the theory pursued by prosecutors, and whether aggravating factors are alleged. A case involving alcohol or drugs may be treated differently from one based on reckless driving or disregard for safety, but every version of the charge carries severe consequences.

A conviction can also affect employment, housing, professional licensing, immigration status, firearm rights, and family stability. In a case involving a death, prosecutors often pursue charges aggressively. Early defense work can make a meaningful difference in how evidence is preserved, reviewed, and challenged.

Will I Lose My License for a Vehicular Homicide Conviction?

A vehicular homicide conviction can lead to a two-year driver's license revocation in Washington. The Department of Licensing process is separate from the criminal case, which means license consequences may continue even after sentencing issues are addressed in court.

The loss of driving privileges can affect a person's ability to work, care for family, attend treatment, or meet court obligations. In some cases involving alcohol or drugs, a person may be eligible for an ignition interlock license, but eligibility depends on the facts and driving record. Our defense lawyer can help explain the criminal and licensing consequences tied to the charge.

How to Fight a Vehicular Homicide Charge in Washington

A defense against vehicular homicide should begin with causation. Prosecutors must prove that the accused person's driving caused the death. If another factor caused or contributed to the crash, that issue may become central to the defense.

Other strategies may include challenging toxicology results, disputing claims of impairment, questioning accident reconstruction conclusions, reviewing vehicle data, examining roadway conditions, and identifying witness inconsistencies. The defense may also look at whether police followed proper procedures during the investigation, search, arrest, or chemical testing process.

A strong defense does not minimize the tragedy of a fatal crash. It demands that the state prove the charge with reliable evidence, not assumptions, grief, or pressure for a conviction.

Meet With a Tacoma, Washington Defense Lawyer

At The Law Office of Michael Austin Stewart Criminal Defense Lawyer, we defend clients facing serious felony charges after fatal crashes in Tacoma. We examine the evidence, challenge weak conclusions, and build a defense based on the facts. Call 123-456-7890 or contact our Tacoma, WA defense attorney to schedule a free consultation.