I have a legal type question about arraignments

[Ginger_79]

Jessica, I only know the German law system, but I suspect it might be similiar in this case. Here he would indeed only be charged for a traffic law violation. Because for the state that's exactely what he did. He ran over a red light. As that's the law he broke, the traffic court would have to deal with it. Here fines and times you will be without your liscence do depend on how bad the outcome was. Not sure that's the case in your state?

In order to get him to "pay" for the damage he did to your family, you would need to suit him at a civil right court. Here in some cases these things can be combined, then the state is the first party and the family is the second party against him in a trial. But from your words I suspect, your family hasn't officially suit him yet? Because then this likely won't be the case. I strongly suggest you to get legal support, if you are considering it. Your lawer will probably be able to tell you, what is the best approach.