Homicide Cases

No crime is more serious under Texas law than homicide. San Antonio homicide attorneys Christine & Mario Del Prado understand how concerned you must be if you are facing such charges. The penalty in a homicide conviction can mean any years of incarceration—or even capital punishment. This is why you need legal representation that is second to none.

Texas Laws on Homicide

Texas Penal Code § 19.01 defines homicide as:

• Criminally negligent homicide
• Manslaughter
• Murder
• Capital murder

Prosecutors may bring either of the first two charges above if it is alleged that the defendant caused the death of another person without intention, generally through negligence or recklessness. DWI convictions in which a victim dies often include negligent homicide or manslaughter. If you are charged with a more severe form of homicide, such as murder, and the evidence is heavily against you, your San Antonio homicide attorneys may try to negotiate with the prosecutor to reduce the charge.

Penalties

All homicides in Texas are felonies. The penalty for a conviction invariably includes a term in state prison. Moreover, you will likely have your driver’s license revoked, face a stiff fine (up to $10,000), and may be required to take counseling or education courses as a condition of parole, such as Anger Management.

Prison sentences for a first degree conviction begin at 5 years, but can be as high as life in prison. If you are convicted of capital murder, you will receive a sentence of either life in prison without the possibility of parole or the death penalty.

For those who are convicted and later released, other penalties await them that will last for the rest of their lives:

• Loss of right to own a firearm
• Loss of right to vote
• Loss of right to run for public office
• Loss of ability to receive a state license

Moreover, because you have a felony criminal record, it will be very difficult to obtain a good job or housing in the future.

Defenses

All this might be overwhelming. However, there is hope. San Antonio homicide attorneys Christine & Mario Del Prado urge you to keep in mind that you are innocent until proven guilty. Even after arrest you retain certain rights, such as the fact that you cannot be coerced to incriminate yourself.

The defense for your case will hinge on the evidence against you—both in terms of its nature and strength. Homicide defense can be a highly specialized field in itself, often requiring expert witnesses in the field of DNA analysis or other psychologists. Any criminal case must take into account both a physical act and the mental state of the accused. Your attorneys will explore ways in which either of these aspects is weak; for instance, you may have been inebriated or committed the act out of fear.

If You Are Facing Charges

We know how frightening it can be for individuals facing charges of homicide. You may feel all hope is lost. However, San Antonio homicide attorneys Christine & Mario Del Prado will do the utmost to help you through this tumultuous time of your life by providing the highest quality legal services. We will work with you to protect your good name. Call us to arrange a free consultation today at 210-698-3533.