When people drive while under the influence, they never know what the results may be. They might get home perfectly safely, they may get into a minor collision or they could end up causing a crash that kills someone. Sometimes those who lose their lives leave behind...
Manslaughter Defense
Potential defenses to manslaughter charges
The terms homicide and murder are thrown around frequently without being defined. The truth is that there are different branches of homicide, with murder being the most serious criminal charge. A lesser, but still serious charge, is manslaughter. What makes...
Manslaughter: How viable is a ‘heat of passion’ defense?
Simply put, manslaughter is murder committed without intent. It is a second-degree felony in Texas, and if convicted, you risk a jail term of up to 20 years, a fine not exceeding $10,000 or both. Among the defenses you can raise if you are charged with manslaughter is...
Why choosing the right jury could be key to your case
You may be offered a plea deal in your criminal case, but if there’s even a miniscule chance that your case may be headed to trial, then you need to know about jury selection. Why does jury selection matter? Simply put, the individuals who compose the jury will hold...
Do you know how to act on your right to remain silent?
Anytime you interact with the police, you should assume that anything you say will be used against you in court. In other words, it’s oftentimes in your best interest to remain silent if the police start asking you questions that could lead to allegations of criminal...
Understanding the burden of proof in a manslaughter case
Manslaughter is a serious offense under Texas law. When a Houston resident is charged with manslaughter, they can expect to face significant challenges as they work their way through the criminal justice system. They have a right to legal counsel if they so choose,...
Proving recklessness in a manslaughter case
Manslaughter is a serious criminal charge that can result in a felony conviction in Texas. When a Houston resident is charged with manslaughter, it is because prosecutors believe that the individual recklessly caused the death of another person. Different charges may...
A comparison of manslaughter and murder
Very unfortunate events can happen to a person in Houston. Without meaning it, a person may find themselves caught up in the events that led to another person’s death. If it is suspected that a person was responsible for the death, even unintentionally, it could lead...
Husband charged in wife’s death after fatal crash
A man is facing intoxication manslaughter charges in the death of his wife in a traffic accident in which he was the driver. The incident occurred in north Houston last week at approximately midnight on Greens Road at I-45 North Freeway. The driver was travelling east...
How do I defend myself against voluntary manslaughter charges?
When a Houston resident is fighting criminal charges, it can seem as if they are going against the whole criminal justice system, which is often slanted against them. When the charges are especially serious, such as those involving manslaughter, it is very important...