Manslaughter/ Homicide Defense Attorney Based in Irving

Charged with a Violent Crime? Let Kelley Legal Strategize Your Defense.

Homicide is one of the most severe types of violent crimes and includes murder and manslaughter. These cases are as serious as they sound but are not always as clear-cut as many people believe. Kelley Legal can help evaluate the relevant evidence and investigate all the circumstances of your case to create a defense strategy specific to you. Attorney Erin understands the risks associated with a homicide or manslaughter charge and will do her best to combat the accusations against you. 

Contact Kelley Legal today for a free consultation to discuss your defense options.

Elements of Manslaughter

One type of violent crime is manslaughter. According to Section 19.04 of the Texas Penal Code, a person commits manslaughter when they recklessly cause the death of another person. The use of “recklessly” refers to a person who is aware of the risk surrounding their conduct or the results that could occur but consciously disregards this awareness. 

So, in order to convict someone of manslaughter, the prosecutor must be able to prove “beyond a reasonable doubt” that the defendant recklessly caused the death of another individual. As opposed to murder, manslaughter does not require any elements of premeditation, intent, or knowledge; the only required element for a charge of manslaughter is that the defendant acted recklessly.

Vehicular & Intoxication Manslaughter

Two specific types of manslaughter addressed under Texas law are intoxication manslaughter and vehicular manslaughter. Intoxication manslaughter involves the defendant recklessly causing the death of another while intoxicated. Vehicular manslaughter involves the defendant recklessly causing the death of another while driving a vehicle.

Generally, a crime of manslaughter is a second-degree felony penalized by two to 20 years in state prison and/or up to $10,000 in fines. A conviction will also leave a mark on your criminal record, which could pose life-altering barriers later in the future.