Murder and Homicide
Homicide in Texas
A homicide is when a person’s actions, whether intentional or not, result in the death of another person. However, homicide is not always illegal, such as when the homicide is committed as an act of self-defense.
In Texas, criminal homicide is broken into three major categories: murder, manslaughter, and criminally negligent homicide. These are some of the most serious crimes a person can face with some of the harshest punishments to match. If you’ve been accused of any type of homicide, the first thing you need to do is reach out to a criminal defense attorney such as Chris Perri. In a state like Texas that prides itself on enforcing the death penalty, your life could literally be on the line.
An award-winning lawyer with extensive experience advocating for clients facing homicide charges in Travis County and beyond, Chris Perri is here to help.
Murder in Texas
What distinguishes murder from manslaughter is intent. A murder refers to someone purposely taking the life of another, or purposely committing a dangerous, illegal act that clearly endangers others and then does in fact result in the death of another person.
According to the Texas Penal Code, murder is elevated to capital murder if:
The victim is a public servant.
The murder occurs while committing or attempting to commit other serious crimes such as burglary, robbery, sexual assault, arson, retaliation, terrorism, kidnapping, and more.
The murder is motivated by money.
The murder occurs while the offender is trying to escape jail or prison.
The victim works at a jail or prison where the offender is incarcerated.
The victim is a child.
The offender kills more than one person during the act.
And more.
Manslaughter in Texas
Manslaughter occurs when one person recklessly causes the death of another person. Premeditation or intention is not necessary. The reckless conduct is the key component of the crime. For instance, if a drunk driver kills someone in Austin, even if accidentally, then they will likely be charged with intoxication manslaughter. If a driver is not intoxicated but driving recklessly and their recklessness results in the death of another, then they will probably be charged with vehicular manslaughter.
Criminally negligent homicide in Texas
Less severe than murder or manslaughter – though still extremely serious – criminally negligent homicide occurs when one person’s negligent behavior causes or allows another person to die. This can include some accidental behaviors, failing to adhere to certain safety procedures, and more.
Facing a murder, manslaughter, or criminally negligent homicide charge? Chris Perri Law can help.
An arrest, even for a serious crime such as murder, doesn’t mean all hope is lost. An award-winning criminal defense lawyer based in Austin and practicing throughout Texas, Chris Perri has helped many clients facing homicide charges, and he can help you, too. In fact, he’s won murder trials, successfully argued self-defense, helped clients get their charges dismissed and reduced, and even overturned wrongful criminal convictions. Whatever your specific situation, you deserve an experienced attorney with a proven track record of successfully defending those charged with crimes.
If you’ve been accused or convicted of a homicide in Texas, call Chris Perri Law at (512) 269-0260 for a free case consultation today.
