McKinney Manslaughter Lawyer
Experienced Defense Against Manslaughter Charges in Texas
When faced with the grave legal implications of a manslaughter charge, having a skilled and experienced legal team by your side can make all the difference. At Malcolm Miranda & Associates P.C., we specialize in providing unwavering support and exceptional legal representation to individuals dealing with manslaughter charges in Texas and the surrounding areas. Our team is committed to safeguarding your rights and pursuing the best possible outcome for your case.
Call Malcolm Miranda & Associates P.C. today at (469) 529-7390 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our manslaughter attorney in McKinney!
What is Manslaughter?
Manslaughter is a severe criminal offense in Texas that involves causing the death of another person either recklessly or in the heat of the moment, without the intent to kill. It falls between murder and negligent homicide on the criminal charges related to causing someone's death. There are two main types of manslaughter under Texas law:
- Voluntary Manslaughter occurs when a person knowingly and recklessly causes the death of another person in the heat of sudden passion, often triggered by a provocation that would cause an ordinary person to lose self-control. While the offender did not plan to kill, their actions were still intentional and without legal justification.
- Involuntary Manslaughter: Involuntary manslaughter occurs when a person causes the death of another through reckless conduct or criminal negligence. The key distinction here is the absence of intent. This could involve driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol and causing a fatal accident.
What are the Penalties for Manslaughter in Texas?
Manslaughter convictions in Texas come with significant legal consequences, including potential imprisonment, fines, and a tarnished criminal record. The penalties for manslaughter can vary based on the case's specific circumstances and whether it is charged as voluntary or involuntary manslaughter. In Texas, voluntary manslaughter is considered a second-degree felony, leading to a prison sentence ranging from two to twenty years and fines of up to $10,000.
On the other hand, involuntary manslaughter is generally categorized as a state jail felony, resulting in imprisonment for up to two years in a state jail facility and fines of up to $10,000. However, if the defendant has a history of convictions or certain aggravating factors present, the penalties can be more severe.
Defenses Against Manslaughter Charges
Navigating a manslaughter charge requires a comprehensive understanding of the legal intricacies and a strategic approach to building a solid defense. At Malcolm Miranda & Associates P.C., our skilled defense attorneys have successfully handled many manslaughter cases and employ various defense strategies tailored to each unique situation. Some common defenses against manslaughter charges include:
- Self-Defense: If it can be proven that the defendant acted in self-defense or defense of others and the use of force was justified, this could potentially lead to a reduction or dismissal of the charges.
- Lack of Recklessness or Intent: For an involuntary manslaughter charge, demonstrating that the defendant did not act recklessly or negligently or that there was no criminal intent can be a key element of the defense.
- Mental State: Establishing that the defendant did not have the requisite mental state for a manslaughter charge, such as sudden passion in the case of voluntary manslaughter, can be a crucial defense strategy.
- Causation: Challenging the causal link between the defendant's actions and the victim's death is another potential defense avenue.
- Evidence Suppression: If procedural errors or violations of the defendant's rights during the investigation or arrest, evidence obtained unlawfully could be suppressed, weakening the prosecution's case.
- Alibi or Misidentification: Presenting evidence that the defendant was not present at the crime scene or was wrongly identified can cast doubt on their involvement.
Contact Our McKinney Manslaughter Attorney Today
If you or a loved one is facing manslaughter charges in McKinney, Texas, securing experienced legal representation is paramount. The dedicated legal team at Malcolm Miranda & Associates P.C. is committed to diligently investigating your case, crafting a solid defense strategy, and vigorously advocating your behalf. We aim to protect your rights, minimize the potential consequences, and strive for the best possible outcome.
Contact Malcolm Miranda & Associates P.C. today to schedule a consultation with our manslaughter lawyer in McKinney!
Put our knowledge and experience on your side by meeting with us in a free, confidential consultation.
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Client Testimonials
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"He was exactly the help that I needed!"
Malcolm Miranda was highly recommended to me, and for good reason. I needed a combination of help: defense as I was falsely accused in a CPS a case, and also defense in a hostile divorce case. He had the legal experience to help with the all the layers.
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This is a fantastic firm, and we are eternally grateful to have the best attorney, Malcolm Miranda.
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They have been there for us through thick and thin. All types of cases. We feel blessed to have them on our side.
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