Expert Legal Defense for Homicide Cases in Houston
Welcome to our firm, where we specialize in providing premier legal representation for individuals facing homicide charges in Houston and beyond. Our experienced legal team understands the complexities of the Texas Penal Code and is committed to building a strong defense for every client.
Understanding Criminal Homicide in Houston
Under Title 5, Chapter 19, Sec. 19.01.AA of the Texas Penal Code, criminal homicide is defined as causing the death of another person intentionally, knowingly, recklessly, or through criminal negligence. This includes multiple classifications such as murder, capital murder, manslaughter, and criminally negligent homicide, each with its own legal implications and penalties.
Murder
Murder charges can arise in several situations:
- Intentionally or knowingly causing the death of another individual.
- Causing death through an act clearly dangerous to human life while intending to cause serious bodily injury.
- Causing a death during the commission or attempted commission of a felony (other than manslaughter) through an act clearly dangerous to human life.
Capital Murder
According to Sec. 19.03, capital murder charges apply under specific circumstances, including:
- Killing a peace officer or firefighter in the line of duty.
- Committing murder during felonies such as kidnapping, burglary, or robbery.
- Murder for hire or in exchange for remuneration.
- Murder while escaping from a penal institution or killing an employee or inmate of such an institution.
- Committing murder while serving a sentence for serious offenses or having prior capital murder convictions.
- Multiple murders occurring during the same criminal act or as part of a single scheme.
- Murder of a child under 15 years of age or in retaliation against a judge or justice.
Capital murder is classified as a capital felony, carrying the most severe penalties, including life imprisonment without parole or the death penalty.
Manslaughter
Under Sec. 19.04, manslaughter occurs when a person recklessly causes the death of another. This offense is classified as a second-degree felony, recognizing the severe harm caused by reckless behavior, even without intent to kill.
Criminally Negligent Homicide
Criminally negligent homicide results when death occurs due to criminal negligence, where failure to perceive a substantial and unjustifiable risk represents a significant deviation from standard care. This offense is classified as a state jail felony.
Our Approach to Homicide Defense
Our firm takes a strategic and personalized approach to defending homicide cases in Houston.
Initial Consultation and Case Review
We begin with a thorough consultation to assess the charges and details of your case, allowing us to develop a defense strategy tailored to your unique situation.
Investigative Process
Our team conducts an independent investigation, gathering key evidence, interviewing witnesses, and working with forensic experts to challenge the prosecution’s claims and build a compelling defense.
Legal Strategy and Defense
We explore all possible defense avenues, including questioning the validity of evidence, intent, and the actual cause of death. Whether through plea negotiations, reducing charges, or taking your case to trial, we strive for the best possible outcome.
Trial Representation
If your case goes to trial, our skilled attorneys will provide aggressive representation, presenting strong arguments, cross-examining witnesses, and ensuring that your rights are protected throughout the process.
Post-Trial Support
Even after a verdict is reached, we continue to assist clients with appeals and post-conviction relief efforts, ensuring every legal option is explored.
Contact Us Today
Facing homicide charges can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Our firm is ready to protect your rights and provide expert legal representation.
For immediate legal assistance, call us today at 713-999-6016. Our dedicated legal team is prepared to fight for you.