DUI Vehicular Manslaughter Lawyer– Dod Law Aggressively Defends SoCal DUIs

San Diego DUI Vehicular Manslaughter Lawyer

A DUI vehicular manslaughter charge is one of the most serious criminal offenses a driver can face in California. When an accident results in a fatality and alcohol or drugs are involved, prosecutors often pursue harsh penalties — sometimes even trying to elevate the charge to murder.  Learn how Dod Law a DUI vehicular manslaughter lawyer aggressively defends SoCal DUIs.

At Dod Law, we understand that accidents happen, and not every tragedy is a crime. Our firm provides aggressive DUI defense for clients across San Diego and Southern California, defending those accused of DUI-related deaths with skill, compassion, and determination. We fight to ensure your side of the story is heard and your rights are protected every step of the way.

Understanding DUI Vehicular Manslaughter in California

Under California Penal Code §191.5, DUI vehicular manslaughter occurs when someone drives under the influence and unintentionally causes another person’s death. The severity of the charge depends on the driver’s level of negligence and prior criminal history.

There are several forms of this offense:

• Vehicular Manslaughter While Intoxicated – Ordinary Negligence (§191.5(b))
  This charge applies when a driver commits a lawful act in an unlawful manner or a negligent act while under the influence. It is typically a wobbler, meaning it can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony.
• Gross Vehicular Manslaughter While Intoxicated (§191.5(a))
  This more serious charge involves gross negligence, or a reckless disregard for human life. It is always a felony, carrying lengthy prison sentences.
• Second-Degree Murder (“Watson Murder”)
  If the driver has a prior DUI conviction and was previously warned about the dangers of impaired driving, prosecutors may file murder charges under the Watson precedent.

These cases are extremely complex, often involving accident reconstruction, toxicology analysis, and detailed investigation into the driver’s actions and intent.

Penalties for DUI Vehicular Manslaughter

The penalties for a DUI vehicular manslaughter conviction are severe and life-altering. Depending on the charge level, a conviction can result in:

• Up to 1 year in jail (for misdemeanor cases)
• 4, 6, or 10 years in state prison (for gross vehicular manslaughter)
• 15 years to life in prison (for DUI murder charges)
• Driver’s license revocation
• Heavy fines and restitution
• Permanent criminal record

Beyond legal consequences, these charges can deeply affect your family, career, and reputation. It is critical to have an experienced defense attorney who understands both DUI law and serious felony defense — and who can aggressively challenge the prosecution’s case.

How Dod Law Can Help

At Dod Law, we take an intensive, evidence-based approach to defending clients charged with DUI vehicular manslaughter. We know these cases demand more than routine DUI defense — they require skill, strategy, and compassion.

Our defense strategies often include:

1. Challenging BAC and chemical test results – Faulty equipment, contamination, or improper procedures can produce unreliable results.
2. Reconstructing the accident – We work with expert investigators to analyze crash dynamics and show the death may not have been caused by intoxication.
3. Disputing gross negligence claims – Not every mistake behind the wheel equals criminal negligence. We highlight evidence showing ordinary or unavoidable error.
4. Examining causation – The prosecution must prove intoxication directly caused the death. If other factors played a role, the charge may be reduced or dismissed.
5. Negotiating reduced charges or alternative outcomes – In some cases, we can reduce a vehicular manslaughter charge to a standard DUI or obtain a plea agreement that limits prison exposure.

Our goal is to protect your freedom, reduce penalties, and ensure fair treatment under the law.

Why Choose Dod Law

Dod Law has built a strong reputation across San Diego and Southern California for providing aggressive, high-stakes DUI defense. We have handled some of the toughest DUI cases — including those involving fatalities — and have the experience needed to challenge complex evidence and confront determined prosecutors.

Clients trust Dod Law because we offer:

• Extensive trial and negotiation experience
• Aggressive courtroom defense tailored to your case
• Personalized attention and direct attorney access
• Compassionate understanding during an emotionally difficult time
• Proven results in DUI and serious felony cases

We know what you are going through and what is on the line. We fight relentlessly to protect your rights and your future.

Call Dod Law | San Diego DUI Vehicular Manslaughter Lawyer

If you are facing DUI vehicular manslaughter charges in San Diego or anywhere in Southern California, you need immediate legal help. Contact Dod Law today for a free, confidential consultation. We will listen to your story, review the evidence, and build a powerful defense strategy designed to get results.

Dod Law – Strongly Defending SoCal DUIs with Experience, Strategy, and Aggressive DUI Defense.

To schedule a free consultation with a member of our first-class legal team, call us today at our San Diego office (619) 814-5110 | Orange County office 949-681-7020  | Vista office 760-814-6025 | or schedule an appointment by filling out our online contact form