Burlington County Vehicular Homicide Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Vehicular homicide in Burlington County is a severe criminal offense under N.J.S.A. 2C:11-5, potentially classified as a first or second-degree crime with decades in prison. If you are facing these charges at the Superior Court of NJ, Burlington Vicinage, you need an experienced vehicular homicide lawyer Burlington County. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Burlington Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
New Jersey Vehicular Homicide Law
In New Jersey, vehicular homicide is defined under N.J.S.A. 2C:11-5. The statute makes it a crime to cause the death of another person while operating a vehicle. The severity of the charge depends on the driver’s state of mind and conduct. A second-degree charge applies if the death results from reckless driving. The charge elevates to a first-degree crime if the death occurs while the driver was committing a violation for which points are assessed, such as DWI, or while fleeing law enforcement. A conviction for a first-degree crime carries a sentence of 10 to 20 years in state prison and a fine of up to $200,000. Founded in 1997, our firm understands the gravity of these charges and the need for immediate, experienced legal intervention.
Local Court Process & Defense Strategy in Burlington County
All vehicular homicide cases in Burlington County are prosecuted in the Superior Court, Criminal Division, located at 49 Rancocas Road in Mount Holly. These are indictable offenses, meaning the case begins with a presentation to a grand jury. If an indictment is returned, the case proceeds to trial in Superior Court. The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that your driving caused the death and that you acted with the required criminal negligence or recklessness.
- Initial Arraignment & Bail Hearing: Your first appearance will be in Superior Court for an arraignment, where the charges are formally read, and bail conditions are set.
- Grand Jury Presentation: The prosecutor will present evidence to a secret grand jury to secure an indictment. A defense attorney can submit exculpatory evidence to the prosecutor for consideration.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Discovery: Your attorney will file motions to suppress evidence, challenge the indictment, or dismiss charges based on legal defects. Full discovery of the state’s evidence is obtained.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Based on the strength of the evidence and motions, your attorney will engage in plea negotiations with the Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office or prepare for a jury trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing will be based on New Jersey’s sentencing guidelines, with arguments made for mitigating factors to reduce the prison term.
Potential Penalties for Vehicular Homicide in NJ
In Burlington County, a vehicular homicide conviction carries severe penalties, including lengthy state prison sentences, massive fines, and a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicular Homicide (Reckless) | 2nd Degree Crime | 5-10 years | Up to $150,000 | Mandatory suspension | No Early Release Act (85% served), permanent felony record |
| Vehicular Homicide (DWI/Fleeing) | 1st Degree Crime | 10-20 years | Up to $200,000 | Mandatory revocation | NERA applies, parole ineligibility, lifelong consequences |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Vehicular Homicide Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our combined attorney experience exceeds 120 years. We have a documented record of handling complex criminal and traffic cases. For a vehicular homicide charge, you need a lawyer who understands both the intricate legal standards and the local Burlington County court procedures. We provide a case-specific approach, examining every detail from accident reconstruction reports and toxicology results to witness statements and police procedure.
Case Results & Client Representation
While specific local results are confidential, our firm-wide practice has achieved over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We represent clients facing the most serious driving-related charges. In vehicular homicide cases, our defense strategy often involves challenging the causation link, the validity of chemical tests, the reconstruction analysis, or the alleged recklessness of the driver’s conduct. An affordable vehicular homicide lawyer Burlington County can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Burlington County Vehicular Homicide Lawyer
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Burlington County, including Mount Holly, Mount Laurel, Moorestown, and Medford. We are familiar with the Superior Court at 49 Rancocas Road. If you need a vehicular homicide lawyer near me Burlington County, we are accessible via the NJ Turnpike and I-295.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — New Jersey
44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Vehicular Homicide Defense FAQs in Burlington County
What is the difference between vehicular homicide and death by auto in NJ?
It depends. “Vehicular homicide” under N.J.S.A. 2C:11-5 generally requires proof of recklessness. “Death by auto” is an older term sometimes used interchangeably, but the specific statute and degree of the crime are determined by the prosecutor based on the facts, such as whether alcohol was involved.
Can I go to jail for a first-time vehicular homicide charge in Burlington County?
Yes. Vehicular homicide is always an indictable crime (felony) in New Jersey. A second-degree conviction carries a mandatory state prison sentence of 5-10 years, with 85% to be served before parole eligibility under the No Early Release Act (NERA).
What are common defenses to a vehicular homicide charge?
Defenses can include challenging the cause of death (arguing it was not due to the defendant’s driving), attacking the reliability of accident reconstruction or toxicology evidence, proving the driving was not reckless, or suppressing evidence obtained through an unlawful stop or seizure. Each case requires a detailed investigation.
How long does a vehicular homicide case take in Burlington County Superior Court?
These complex felony cases can take a year or more to resolve. The timeline includes grand jury proceedings, extensive discovery, pre-trial motions, and potentially a jury trial. An experienced vehicular homicide lawyer Burlington County can work to move the case forward efficiently while building the defense.
Will I lose my driver’s license permanently if convicted?
Yes. A conviction for vehicular homicide in New Jersey mandates a substantial driver’s license suspension. For a first-degree conviction, the court must order a revocation of your driving privileges. Restoration after the revocation period is not automatic and requires a formal application.
For more information, see our New Jersey traffic defense hub. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Somerset County and with related charges such as Burlington County criminal defense.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Attorney responsible for this advertisement: Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724.