Defense for People Facing Murder Charges in Texas
Criminal Defense in Dallas - Fort Worth, Houston, and Throughout Texas
Under Texas law, murder is defined in Penal Code § 19.02 and occurs when a person intentionally or knowingly causes the death of another, intends to cause serious bodily injury and commits an act clearly dangerous to human life that results in death, or causes a death during the commission or attempted commission of a felony (known as felony murder).
Murder is typically prosecuted as a first-degree felony, carrying a punishment range of 5 to 99 years or life in prison, along with a possible fine of up to $10,000. However, if the defendant can prove the killing occurred under the immediate influence of sudden passion from an adequate cause, the charge may be reduced to a second-degree felony, which carries a lighter sentencing range of 2 to 20 years.
It's important to distinguish murder from capital murder, which is the most serious form of homicide under Texas law. Capital murder includes specific aggravating circumstances, such as killing a police officer or firefighter in the line of duty, committing murder during the course of certain felonies like kidnapping or robbery, murdering multiple victims, or killing a child under 10 years old. Capital murder is punishable by life in prison without parole or the death penalty, depending on the facts of the case and the prosecution’s approach.
Because the stakes are extremely high in any murder charge—and especially in capital cases—it is critical to work with a skilled criminal defense attorney who can evaluate the evidence, identify possible defenses, and advocate effectively on your behalf.
Contact a Skilled Texas Criminal Defense Lawyer
For your convenience, we answer our phones 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Evening and weekend meetings can be arranged upon request. To set up a free initial consultation, contact us online or call us at 844-402-2992. Se habla español.
At Bailey & Galyen, we provide comprehensive legal counsel to individuals across the states of Texas, New Mexico, and Arkansas, including those in Arlington, Bedford, Carrollton, Dallas, El Paso, Fort Worth, Grand Prairie, Houston, Lubbock, Mesquite, Plano, San Antonio, Santa Fe, Springdale, Sugar Land, and Weatherford.