Savannah GA Homicide Lawyer

Homicide in Georgia

 

There is often some confusion between the terms "murder" and "homicide," but the difference can by summed up rather simply. Homicide refers to the taking of a person's life by another, but it does not define the circumstances or the intent, and not all instances of homicide are crimes. For example, we have all heard of the term "justifiable homicide," and this may occur under a number of different circumstances, such as killing someone in self defense or to react to an intrusion on your personal property. There is also such a thing as "judicial homicide" which refers to instances when law enforcement officers have found it necessary to use lethal force to save their own lives or the lives of others who are being imperiled by a perpetrator.

 

The crime of murder is just that, a crime in all instances. It supposes the intention of a person to kill another before carrying it out. In terms of the Georgia criminal code, the term homicide is generally applied in matters of vehicular homicide, instances when an individual causes the death on another through an act of negligence or recklessness on the roadways. All criminal charges are devastating to one degree or another, but vehicular homicide is unique because it is not the realm of the "career criminal" and it can happen to anyone when you may least expect it as a result of a momentary loss of focus or lapse in judgment.

 

In Georgia there is such a thing as first and second degree vehicular homicide. First degree vehicular homicide is a felony, and it is leveled under circumstances such as a hit and run, an attempt to elude police, improperly passing a school bus, being under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and reckless driving. First degree vehicular homicide carries some serious consequences including up to fifteen years of incarceration. Second degree vehicular homicide is a misdemeanor, but it can result in a stiff fine and up to a year in jail.

 

Anytime you are involved in a homicide, whether you feel that it is justifiable, or if it is a case of vehicular homicide, it is crucial to contact a Georgia criminal defense attorney who is experienced with such matters. Proceeding on your own without qualified counsel can have devastating consequences.

 

If you are suspected of homicide in Georgia, then contact a Savannah lawyer today.