Alabama Vehicular Homicide Defense Attorney

For experienced criminal defense, call Simms & Associates in Birmingham, Alabama. We are available 24 hours a day/7 days a week. Lawyer Derek B. Simms is available by telephone at 205-453-9700, and you may request a free initial consultation in our offices.

Attorney Simms established the practice in 1999 with the goal of representing clients who have been accused of drunk driving, criminal activity or drug violations. Being arrested does not result in an automatic conviction. In America, you are considered innocent until proven guilty — our job is to defend you diligently and vigorously, not to judge you.

Defending You Against Vehicular Homicide Charges

Vehicular homicide or "homicide by car" charges in Alabama are very serious. You may be charged with causing a fatal car accident while driving under the influence, or DUI, killing either a driver, a passenger or both. Vehicular homicide charges may also stem from reckless driving or excessive speed.

You may be charged in one of the following ways:

• Murder: Under circumstances manifesting extreme indifference to human life, recklessly engaging in conduct that creates a grave risk of death and thereby causing the death of another
• Manslaughter: Recklessly causing the death of another person. A Class B felony, punishable by up to 20 years in prison
• Unintentionally causing the death or another while violating any law regarding operation of a vehicle or vessel; punishable by up to 5 years in prison
• Criminally Negligent Homicide: Causing the death of another by criminal negligence, a misdemeanor, unless arising out of DUI, in which case it is a Class C felony

Confused? You're not alone. Many of these cases result in mistrial, as juries cannot unanimously agree on a verdict.

Free Initial Consultation

Since opening the practice in 1999, attorney Simms has focused on criminal defense. We understand that unfortunate events often happen quickly, leaving affected parties little time to act. That is why we return calls 24 hours a day/7 days a week. When you call us at 205-453-9700, you won't be connected to an answering service. You will speak directly to an experienced criminal defense lawyer who can advise you of your rights, and help you plan your defense. Contact us today.