Homicide Charges in Texas

Getting arrested for homicide in Texas is a serious allegation. A murder conviction carries some of the most severe penalties that a defendant could possibly face. In the state of Texas, being convicted of a homicide could result in a capital murder conviction and the death penalty. If you are suspected of being involved in a homicide, you need experienced legal counsel to protect your rights. Consider contacting a criminal defense attorney immediately to begin preparing your defense for court.

Types of Homicide Charges

In Texas, criminal homicide can be charged as one of four different crimes: criminally negligent homicide, manslaughter, murder, and capital murder. An individual may be charged with criminally negligent homicide or manslaughter if he or she unintentionally caused the death of an individual through negligence or recklessness, respectively. Murder and capital murder are charges reserved for individuals who are suspected of knowingly and intentionally killing someone or committing an act that endangers a person's life and results in death.

Penalties

All homicide charges are classified as felonies under Texas law. Murder and capital murder are particularly severe because they often result in a first degree felony or a capital felony charge. For a first degree felony conviction for murder, the defendant may face the following penalties:

• Prison sentence: 5 years to life in prison
• Fines: Up to $10,000
• License suspension or revocation
• Community service
• Mandatory counseling
• Educational or treatment courses

For a capital murder conviction, the defendant may be penalized with either a life in prison sentence without parole or the death penalty.

If you have been arrested for homicide, it is important to know that you have certain unalienable rights under the law. You have the right to remain silent upon arrest, the right to an attorney, and the right to not incriminate yourself, among others. An experienced criminal defense lawyer can advise you on how to proceed with your case in court and will fight aggressively to defend you against an overzealous prosecution.

Contact Us

Don't enter the courtroom feeling unprepared. For sound legal advice and assistance with your homicide charge, please contact experienced Austin criminal lawyer Ian Inglis at 512-472-1950.