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For Minnesotans Facing Criminal Charges

Empathetic Criminal Vehicular Homicide Lawyer In St. Paul

Last updated on April 29, 2025

Criminal vehicular homicide is a serious charge that can change your life forever. It involves causing someone’s death while driving recklessly, carelessly, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Knowing what you’re up against and how to protect your rights is vital if you face these charges.

At Gerlach Law, I bring over 25 years of experience in criminal defense and have handled more than 120 jury trials as a former prosecutor. I take a practical, straightforward approach to cases, always aiming to resolve them quickly and in your favor. When we work together, I’ll treat you like a friend – caring and easy to talk to – and I’m even willing to meet you at your home to make this process as easy as possible.

What Is The Difference Between Criminal Vehicular Homicide And Vehicular Manslaughter?

Criminal vehicular homicide and vehicular manslaughter are two different charges that vary in intent and carelessness.

Criminal vehicular homicide typically involves extreme carelessness or impaired driving that leads to someone’s death.
Vehicular manslaughter usually refers to causing death through ordinary carelessness without factors like substance impairment.

Knowing the difference is key because the penalties and defenses for these charges vary greatly. I aim to help you understand these differences and build a defense suited to your case.

How Do Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) Levels Affect Criminal Vehicular Homicide Charges And Penalties?

Blood alcohol content (BAC) levels can significantly impact criminal vehicular homicide charges and the penalties that follow.

If you have a BAC of 0.08 or higher and your impairment causes a fatal accident, the charges against you may increase.
Higher BAC levels often result in harsher sentences, making it crucial to address this evidence well.

As your criminal vehicular homicide lawyer, I’ll carefully review your case details, including BAC results, and fight to protect your rights.

How Do Prosecutors Prove Criminal Intent In Vehicular Homicide Cases?

Prosecutors work hard to prove criminal intent in vehicular homicide cases by focusing on cause and carelessness.

They’ll try to show that your actions directly caused the fatal accident.
They will likely use evidence such as witness statements, accident reports, and BAC tests against you.

I know how prosecutors build their cases because I used to be one myself. Now, I use that insight to craft strong defenses for my clients. Whether it’s a DUI homicide defense or a death-by-vehicle defense, I’ll stand by you every step of the way.

Possible Defenses To Criminal Vehicular Homicide Charges

When facing criminal vehicular homicide charges, several defenses may be available to challenge the prosecution’s case.

Lack of intent: Demonstrating no intention to cause harm can be crucial.
Faulty evidence: If authorities improperly administer the BAC test or obtain inaccurate results, it may weaken the prosecution’s case.
Emergencies: If an unforeseen emergency forces you to act in a way that causes the accident, you may have a valid defense.

By exploring these potential defenses, I aim to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of your options and the best strategies for your case.

Let’s Talk About Your Case Today

If you’re facing criminal vehicular homicide charges in St. Paul or the Twin Cities, call Gerlach Law today at 952-952-9723 or email me for a free consultation. Let me help you navigate this tough time with care and determination – you don’t have to face this alone.