Friday, November 15, 2024

Criminal and Civil Law Collide: Lessons from the Monroe Boat Club Tragedy

Washtenaw County Criminal Defense

The tragic accident at Monroe Boat Club this past spring serves as a case study on the intersection of criminal and civil liability. A woman, who allegedly consumed alcohol before crashing into a birthday party, is facing criminal charges including OWI causing death and second-degree murder. However, the legal implications don’t stop at criminal prosecution.

In addition, the victims’ families are likely to pursue civil actions. Wrongful death lawsuits could target not only the driver but also the boat club under Michigan’s dram shop liability law, which holds bars accountable for over-serving intoxicated patrons. There may also be claims against the event space for failing to ensure proper safety measures.

This case reveals how civil and criminal justice systems operate in tandem. A criminal conviction often strengthens civil claims, offering a clear pathway to holding the responsible parties accountable. This intersection of justice will be closely watched as it unfolds, offering critical lessons for both law practitioners and the public.

Learn more about the Monroe Boat Club tragedy here.

 

Contact Geherin Law Group for Washtenaw County Criminal Defense

 

If you’re being investigated or charged with a criminal case in Washtenaw County, and want a firm with 25+ years of targeted Washtenaw County experience, please contact Dan and his firm at GLG Michigan immediately.  We’re available 24/7, and we’ll help put you at ease, form a plan to handle your case, and fight aggressively to restore your reputation and protect your freedom.  Schedule your consultation online here, or call 24/7 (734) 263-2780. We’re acutely committed to providing personal attention, personal options, and personal justice to every single client we represent.  

 

GLG Michigan:  To Us, Washtenaw County Criminal Defense is Personal.    

 

Listen to our latest podcast the Michigan Justice Chronicles here.

Friday, November 1, 2024

The Monroe Boat Club Tragedy: A Sobering Intersection of Criminal and Civil Law

Washtenaw County Criminal Defense

The Monroe Boat Club tragedy—a heartbreaking event where a car driven by a 66-year-old woman crashed into a child’s birthday party, killing two and injuring several—raises profound legal questions. This case involves both criminal prosecution and civil litigation, highlighting the intertwined nature of these areas of law.

On the criminal side, the driver faces charges of OWI causing death and second-degree murder. These charges reflect the reckless disregard for human life, especially when alcohol is involved. However, the legal story doesn’t end there. The victims' families will likely file wrongful death lawsuits, not only against the driver but also potentially the boat club and the event space.

In Michigan, "dram shop liability" laws allow victims to hold establishments accountable if they overserve alcohol to someone who later causes harm. As the case unfolds, it will demonstrate how criminal convictions can play a pivotal role in civil cases, particularly when both seek justice for devastating losses.

Learn more about the Monroe Boat Club tragedy here.

 

Contact Geherin Law Group for Washtenaw County Criminal Defense

 

If you’re being investigated or charged with a criminal case in Washtenaw County, and want a firm with 25+ years of targeted Washtenaw County experience, please contact Dan and his firm at GLG Michigan immediately.  We’re available 24/7, and we’ll help put you at ease, form a plan to handle your case, and fight aggressively to restore your reputation and protect your freedom.  Schedule your consultation online here, or call 24/7 (734) 263-2780. We’re acutely committed to providing personal attention, personal options, and personal justice to every single client we represent.  

 

GLG Michigan:  To Us, Washtenaw County Criminal Defense is Personal.    


Listen to our latest podcast the Michigan Justice Chronicles here.

Understanding Michigan's Concealed Carry Laws: A Guide for Gun Owners

Many Michiganders inquire about the process of obtaining a Concealed Pistol License (CPL) and the associated regulations. In this blog post,...