Homicide Lawyers in Pearland

Defending Clients Facing a Murder Offense Charge in Texas

If you are facing homicide charges in Texas, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Homicide is one of the most serious crimes under Texas law, carrying severe penalties that can include long prison sentences or even life behind bars. Whether you are charged with murder, manslaughter, or criminally negligent homicide, it’s crucial to have a strong defense on your side. At The Kahn Law Firm, P.C., we understand how overwhelming these charges can be, and we are committed to defending your rights and your future. A strong defense can challenge the prosecution’s case and potentially reduce the consequences you face. With jail time or even a life sentence on the line, having a dedicated criminal defense lawyer who understands the intricacies of Texas law and knows how to build an effective defense is essential. Don’t navigate this complex legal process alone—let us guide you through it. Contact our office to request a free consultation!

What Counts as a Homicide Case in Texas?

A homicide offense occurs when one person is responsible for causing the death of another, whether intentionally, recklessly, or through criminal negligence. In Texas, homicide charges can carry serious consequences, with penalties varying depending on the circumstances surrounding the case. Homicide offenses can include murder, manslaughter, and criminally negligent homicide, each with distinct characteristics and varying levels of severity. It is crucial to understand these distinctions, as each charge comes with its own legal implications and potential penalties.

Texas Homicide Classifications

Here’s a breakdown of the key types of homicide offenses in Texas:

Murder:

This is one of the most common homicide charges. It typically occurs when someone intentionally causes the death of another person or does so with extreme recklessness. Murder charges in Texas can be aggravated, and penalties may include long prison sentences or even life imprisonment.

Capital Murder:

This is the most serious form of murder in Texas. Capital murder can carry the death penalty if convicted, making it one of the most severe charges a person can face in the state. This charge is typically brought in cases of intentional killing, especially when it involves certain aggravating factors such as the victim being a law enforcement officer or if the murder was premeditated.

Manslaughter:

Manslaughter charges typically apply when a person causes the death of another while acting recklessly or without due regard for the safety of others. While manslaughter is a serious charge, it generally carries a less severe penalty than murder.

Criminally Negligent Homicide:

This occurs when an individual’s failure to be aware of a substantial and unjustifiable risk results in another person’s death. This charge is often considered less severe than manslaughter but still carries significant consequences. Additionally, under Texas law, there are situations where homicide charges can arise even if the death was not intentional:

Felony Murder:

This charge applies when someone dies during the commission of a felony or while attempting to escape after committing a felony. Even if the person did not intend to kill anyone, their actions—such as pointing a loaded gun during a robbery or engaging in a high-speed chase—could lead to a felony murder charge if the death occurred as a result.

What Is the Difference Between Manslaughter and Murder?

One of the critical differences between manslaughter and murder is the defendant’s intent. With murder, the defendant knowingly and willingly engaged in actions that resulted in someone else’s death. However, when someone is charged with manslaughter, they may not have intended to kill another person but engaged in reckless actions, and their reckless behavior resulted in someone else’s death. A classic example of manslaughter is intoxication manslaughter, which happens when someone is under the influence of drugs or alcohol and kills someone – a common offense among drunk drivers (also called vehicular manslaughter). That person knows that driving while under the influence is dangerous and illegal but decides to ignore the traffic laws and drive anyway. While manslaughter charges are technically less severe than murder, a defendant may still face hefty fines and significant prison time.

Protect Your Freedom Against Murder Charges

Facing homicide charges in Texas is incredibly serious, and the penalties can be life-altering. Whether you are dealing with murder, manslaughter, or felony murder charges, having a skilled criminal defense attorney to guide you through the complexities of the legal system is essential. Our homicide lawyers in Pearland will work diligently to challenge the prosecution’s case and seek the best possible outcome for your situation. Your future is on the line—let us help protect it.

How Can You Defend Yourself Against a Homicide Charge?

Like in any criminal case, defendants charged with homicide offenses may resort to a few different defense strategies to reduce the severity of their charges or even get charges dropped.

Self Defense Claim

A common murder defense strategy is to claim self-defense when a defendant’s actions were carried out in order to protect themselves or a family member from an imminent threat.

Lack of Intent to Kill

Secondly, lack of intent to kill is another possible defense strategy, where the defendant can argue that they did not willingly or knowingly act with the intention of killing someone.

Incapacity

Finally, diminished capacity or mental incapacity is another possible defense strategy, where the defendant can prove they were not in control of their actions or lacked the ability to form the necessary intent for homicide. Each case is unique, and the help of a seasoned homicide lawyer in Pearland, TX is critical to help you develop a solid defense strategy for your case.

Why Should You Hire a Homicide Attorney for Your Case?

If you have been charged with murder or another type of homicide offense in Texas, you need to act quickly. Being charged does not mean the end of the road, especially if you choose to work with a skilled criminal defense attorney who can investigate the charges, collect evidence, and challenge the prosecution’s case. Your attorney may be able to reduce the severity of your charges, negotiate a more lenient sentence and help you reach a more favorable outcome. The Kahn Law Firm, P.C. can help you fight back against homicide charges in Pearland, Texas. Schedule a free consultation with our Pearland-based homicide lawyers as soon as possible at 713-999-6549.