If you have been charged with a DUI in Oklahoma that resulted in a fatality, you are facing one of the most serious criminal charges possible. At Fabian & Young, we understand the significance of your situation. Our Oklahoma DUI defense lawyers have decades of experience successfully representing clients with DUI accident charges, including those that resulted in a fatality.
We are here to provide experienced, compassionate legal representation through this frightening legal process. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case, understand your options, and get started building your best defense strategy.
Understanding DUI Homicide Charges in Oklahoma
A homicide is defined as the killing of one human being by another. In Oklahoma, a DUI that results in homicide is typically charged as either First Degree Manslaughter or Second Degree Murder, depending on the circumstances.
First Degree Manslaughter: This charge usually applies when a death occurs during the commission of a misdemeanor DUI (generally a first offense). While called “manslaughter,” this is still a felony charge carrying severe penalties. A manslaughter DUI defense attorney in Oklahoma can help you with this.
Second Degree Murder: If you have a prior DUI conviction within the past 10 years and are involved in a fatal DUI accident, you may face second degree murder charges instead. This is because a subsequent DUI is considered a felony in Oklahoma. A felony DUI defense lawyer in Oklahoma can help you navigate this.
Potential Consequences
The penalties for DUI homicide in Oklahoma are extremely severe:
First Degree Manslaughter:
- Minimum 4 years in prison (no maximum specified)
- Up to $10,000 fine
- 85% of sentence must be served before parole eligibility
- Felony record
Second Degree Murder:
- 10 years to life in prison
- Up to $10,000 fine
- 85% of sentence must be served before parole eligibility
- Felony record
Both charges also result in:
- Driver’s license revocation
- Mandatory alcohol education and treatment
- Potential civil lawsuits from the victim’s family
Why You Need an Experienced DUI Homicide Defense Attorney in Oklahoma
DUI homicide cases are complicated and require a complex legal approach. The prosecution will aggressively pursue conviction, often seeking maximum penalties. Without skilled, experienced legal representation from a DUI homicide defense lawyer in Oklahoma, you risk facing the harshest possible consequences.
At Fabian & Young, we have extensive experience defending clients against complicated DUI charges. We understand the prosecutorial tactics used in these cases and know how to build strong defenses to protect your rights and freedom.
Potential Defense Strategies
While every case is unique, some potential defense strategies we have used in DUI homicide cases include:
- Challenging the DUI Evidence: We will scrutinize the validity of field sobriety tests, breathalyzer results, and blood tests. Improper administration or faulty equipment can lead to evidence suppression.
- Causation Defense: We may argue that factors other than impairment caused the accident, such as road conditions, vehicle malfunctions, or actions of other drivers.
- Constitutional Violations: If law enforcement violated your constitutional rights during the arrest or investigation, we will fight to have evidence thrown out.
- Accident Reconstruction: When appropriate, we work with expert witnesses to analyze the crash and potentially demonstrate that impairment was not the primary cause.
- Mitigation: In cases where the evidence is overwhelming, we focus on presenting mitigating factors to seek reduced charges and more lenient sentencing.
The Importance of Immediate Action
Time is extremely important in DUI homicide cases. The prosecution begins building its case immediately, and essential evidence can be lost if not preserved quickly. It is vital that you contact an experienced Oklahoma homicide DUI defense attorney as soon as possible after your arrest.
When you hire Fabian & Young, we take immediate action to protect your rights. We will advise you of your rights and options and on how to interact with law enforcement.
Your Fabian & Young attorneys will conduct their own investigation into the accident scene and actions taken by the police. We interview potential witnesses and determine what motions we need to file to preserve vital evidence.
We immediately get to work building your best defense strategy.
What to Expect When Working with an Oklahoma Homicide DUI Defense Lawyer From Fabian & Young
When you choose our firm, you will receive compassionate representation. We understand the emotional toll of these charges and provide supportive, judgment-free counsel.
Our aggressive DUI defense attorneys fight tirelessly to protect your rights and pursue the best possible outcome. We have extensive DUI law knowledge and stay on the cutting edge of the latest developments in Oklahoma law.
We are skilled negotiators with a strong track record of working with prosecutors to reduce charges or secure favorable plea agreements when appropriate. If your case goes to trial, our Oklahoma homicide DUI defense attorneys have the courtroom skills to present your most compelling case.
Contact Fabian & Young Today
Facing DUI homicide charges is undoubtedly one of the most challenging experiences of your life. While the potential consequences are severe, it is important to remember that being charged is not the same as being convicted.
With the right legal representation, it may be possible to have charges reduced, secure acquittal, or minimize penalties. At Fabian & Young, we are committed to supporting you and fighting for you throughout this difficult process. We will work tirelessly to protect your rights, freedom, and future.
If you or a loved one has been charged with DUI homicide in Oklahoma, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact Fabian & Young immediately for a confidential consultation. We will review your case, explain your options, and begin building your strongest defense strategy.