Dallas Dallas Murder & Manslaughter Lawyer

Facing a murder or manslaughter charge is one of the most serious situations someone can go through. The outcome can change your life forever. At Gallian Firm, we help people accused of homicide in Dallas and throughout Texas. Whether the charge is murder, capital murder, or manslaughter, we take the time to build a strong defense and make sure your rights are protected.

What to Know About Murder Charges in Texas

In Texas, murder is a first-degree felony. That means if someone is convicted, they could face between 5 years and life in prison. In some cases, it could lead to the death penalty. The law says that murder is when a person:

• Intentionally or knowingly causes the death of another person
• Intends to cause serious harm and ends up causing death
• Commits or tries to commit another felony and someone dies because of it

Texas takes murder charges seriously, and so do we. We work closely with our clients to look at every detail and prepare the best possible defense.

Capital Murder in Texas

Capital murder is even more serious than regular murder. It is charged when certain factors are involved, such as:

• Killing a police officer or firefighter while they’re working
• Committing murder during another felony, like robbery or kidnapping
• Killing more than one person
• Killing a child under 10 years old

Capital murder can lead to life in prison without parole or the death penalty. These cases require a deep understanding of the law and a strong plan from the start.

Manslaughter and Criminally Negligent Homicide

Not all homicide charges involve the intent to kill. Texas law also recognizes:

Manslaughter – This happens when someone recklessly causes the death of another person. The key word is “reckless.” That means the person didn’t mean to kill anyone, but their actions were dangerous and careless. Manslaughter is a second-degree felony with a possible punishment of 2 to 20 years in prison.

Criminally Negligent Homicide – This charge is based on someone failing to see the risks of their actions. It’s a state jail felony, with a punishment of 180 days to 2 years in a state jail facility.

We look at the facts of every case to see whether the charge fits the situation. Sometimes what looks like murder may actually be something less serious, and we fight to make sure the charge matches what really happened.

Defense Strategies We May Use

Every case is different, but we look at all possible ways to defend our clients. Some of the most common defenses to murder or manslaughter charges include:

Self-Defense
If someone believes they were in danger and used force to protect themselves, we may be able to show that the killing was done in self-defense.

Lack of Intent
In murder cases, the state must prove that the person meant to kill someone. If we can show there was no intent, the charge could be reduced or dismissed.

Insufficient Evidence
We push the prosecution to prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt. If the evidence is weak or the story doesn’t add up, we use that to our advantage.

Mental Health Conditions
Sometimes a person’s mental state at the time of the incident plays a big role. If someone was suffering from a serious mental illness, we may use that to explain their actions and reduce the sentence.

What Happens After an Arrest?

Once someone is arrested for murder or manslaughter, the process moves quickly. Here’s what usually happens:

• A judge sets bail
• There’s a formal charge called an indictment
• The defense and prosecution gather evidence
• Court hearings begin, including pre-trial motions
• A trial is scheduled, or a plea deal is discussed

We help our clients understand each step. We stay involved from the beginning, working on everything from getting a fair bond to preparing for trial.

Possible Penalties for Murder and Manslaughter in Texas

Here’s what someone might face if convicted:

Murder (First-degree felony)

• 5 to 99 years or life in prison
• Up to a $10,000 fine

Capital Murder

• Life in prison without parole
• Death penalty

Manslaughter (Second-degree felony)

• 2 to 20 years in prison
• Up to a $10,000 fine

Criminally Negligent Homicide (State jail felony)

• 180 days to 2 years in a state jail
• Up to a $10,000 fine

We fight to avoid the most serious outcomes. That may mean challenging the charge, seeking a lesser offense, or negotiating a plea deal that avoids prison.

What Makes These Charges So Serious?

Homicide charges come with more than just prison time. A conviction can change your entire future. It can affect:

• Your family and relationships
• Job and housing opportunities
• Immigration status
• Your ability to own a gun

We understand how high the stakes are. We take the time to understand your story, answer your questions, and work toward the best outcome possible.

Frequently Asked Questions About Texas Homicide Charges

What’s the difference between murder, manslaughter, and homicide?
Homicide is the general term for when someone causes the death of another. Murder means someone did it on purpose. Manslaughter means it happened because of reckless behavior. Criminally negligent homicide means someone failed to act responsibly and someone died.

Can someone get probation for manslaughter in Texas?
It’s possible, depending on the facts of the case, the person’s criminal history, and the judge’s decision. We work to show why our clients deserve another chance.

What crimes can lead to the death penalty in Texas?
The death penalty is usually only an option in capital murder cases. That includes killing a police officer, multiple people, or someone during a violent felony.

How many years can someone get for murder in Texas?
A person found guilty of murder could be sentenced to 5 to 99 years or life in prison. The exact number depends on many factors, including past criminal record and the facts of the case.

Talk to our Dallas Murder Attorneys

When you’re accused of murder or manslaughter, everything is on the line. The Gallian Firm has experience defending serious felony charges across Dallas. We know Texas law and how to challenge the state’s case. Our goal is to protect your rights and your future.

We offer straightforward answers and tough legal representation. If you or someone you care about is facing a homicide charge, don’t wait. Call us today at (214) 432-8860 for a free consultation.