Murder
Houston Murder Lawyer
Houston Murder & Homicide Defense Attorney
Defending those Charged with Homicide in Texas
Criminal homicide or “murder” is defined under Section 19.01 of the Texas Penal Code. According to Texas law, “A person commits criminal homicide if he intentionally, knowingly, recklessly, or with criminal negligence causes the death of an individual.”
Being a first-degree felony, murder carries a punishment range from 5 years to life in prison, highlighting the dire need for an experienced murder defense attorney. Attorney James Alston embodies the role of such an advocate with his commitment to defend those charged with homicide in Texas aggressively. His approach is tailored to each case, always aiming for the most favorable result for his clients, showing why the choice of a murder defense lawyer is crucial.
Types of Murder Charges in Houston
Murder: Pursuant to Texas Penal Code Section 19.02, murder occurs when a person:
- intentionally or knowingly causes the death of an individual;
- intends to cause serious bodily injury and commits an act clearly dangerous to human life that causes the death of an individual or;
- causes death during the commission of a felony or an act clearly dangerous to human life.
Manslaughter: Pursuant to Section 19.04 of the Texas Penal Code, a person commits the offense of manslaughter when they “recklessly causes the death of an individual.” Manslaughter is charged as a second-degree felony under Texas law.
Capital Murder: Murder: Chargeable as a capital felony, capital murder depends on the circumstances of the homicide. Pursuant to Section 19.03 of the Texas Penal Code, Prosecutors can seek capital murder charges if: the victim is a police officer within the course of duty, the homicide is intentional and committed during a felony, the person is incarcerated and murders an employee or another individual of the penal institution, the murder is done in retaliation of the service as a judge, or the person murders an individual under 10 years or age.
Criminally Negligent Homicide: According to Section 19.05 of the Texas Penal Code, a person commits a criminally negligent homicide “if he causes the death of an individual by criminal negligence.” Criminally negligent homicide is charged as a state jail felony.
Defending Murder Charges in Houston
There are several defenses that can arise in a Houston Criminal Homicide case, including adequate cause and sudden passion. Even if you are charged with manslaughter, your entire life can be ruined if you are convicted. You need to act fast to protect your rights and your future.
Attorney James Alston is a former state and federal prosecutor, who will fight for you. He is board-certified in criminal law and represents clients in both state and federal courts. Over the course of his 30-year legal career, he has been recognized as one of the most respected and experienced criminal defense attorneys in Houston. Contact Criminal Defense Lawyer James Alston today at (713) 228-1400 to schedule a consultation and get the answers you need.
