Aggressively Representing Those Accused of Serious Violent Crimes
Criminal charges linked to the death of another person are some of the most serious allegations an individual can face. When someone kills another person with intent and premeditation, they can be charged with murder in Texas. However, not every death is classified as murder. If you’re charged with recklessly causing the death of another individual, you may face lesser criminal charges that are still serious. In these situations, you should speak with a Denton County manslaughter defense lawyer.
At Edgett Law Firm, our legal team is focused on protecting our clients’ rights. We know that police reports and prosecutor allegations are not the whole story. We also know that everyone is entitled to a dedicated criminal defense under the law. Unfortunately, far too many people choose to accept plea deals without consulting an attorney—or they merely settle for an overworked public defender, which could still end up costing them thousands in legal fees.
Criminal matters involving the death of another human should never be taken lightly. Contact our manslaughter defense attorney in Denton County for a free consultation.
What Is Manslaughter Under Texas Law?
You’ll sometimes hear people use the words homicide, manslaughter, and murder interchangeably. While each of these terms refers to the death of a person, the differences between them are stark. Working with criminal defense lawyers is your best opportunity to understand the charges against you, but put simply, manslaughter occurs when one person recklessly causes the death of another. Unlike in other states, Texas does not distinguish between voluntary and involuntary manslaughter.
As with most criminal charges in Texas, though, there are some nuances you should understand. That’s because — in addition to basic charges — there are various types of manslaughter laws on the books. For instance, vehicular manslaughter occurs when a motorist’s reckless actions cause the death of another person. An individual could also be charged with intoxication manslaughter if their actions while inebriated led to someone’s death.
These charges are treated separately, and your criminal defense strategy should reflect these differences. That’s why it’s so important to work with a manslaughter defense lawyer in Denton County. With informed legal counsel, you can understand the challenges you’ll face and how to mount a proper criminal defense.
What Are Defense Strategies for Homicide Charges?
When you speak with Denton County criminal defense attorneys, you’ll typically discuss potential strategies in your case. This can be a complex discussion. In some instances, there may be enough evidence to have charges dropped entirely. In other situations, it may be prudent to take a case to trial. It may even be the case that negotiating a plea deal with prosecutors is in your best interest. However, the proper approach will depend heavily on whether the following defenses apply to your case:
- Death was caused by accident devoid of negligence
- There was no intent to engage in reckless behavior
- Diminished mental capacity
- Self-defense
- Defense of others
- The defendant’s actions were not directly responsible for the victim’s death
- Underlying medical condition was the true cause of death
- Violation of constitutional rights
- Insufficient evidence
- Chain of custody issues
Whether you ask a police officer, former prosecutor, or your own Denton County manslaughter attorney — all these professionals will tell you that a strong defense is everything. The strategies listed may very well prove successful in your case but never assume that they’re one-size-fits-all. You need to work with an attorney whose main practice areas include manslaughter defense — and this legal professional can help cater a defense strategy to the unique circumstances of your case.
Don’t take on the system alone. Contact our law offices today for a free consultation.
How to Choose Between Criminal Defense Lawyers?
When seeking out criminal defense attorneys in Texas, there’s certainly no shortage of law offices to choose from. However, it’s important to realize that not every law firm will work equally as hard on your case. You want an attorney who’s willing to go out and gather evidence on your behalf. You want a trial lawyer who isn’t going to simply accept a quick plea deal because it makes their lives easier. You want someone who knows you deserve an aggressive defense when facing criminal charges.
There are several ways to identify these law firms. To start, look for the following:
- Extensive experience in criminal law
- Local representation
- Working relationships with prosecutors and judges
- A law firm that’s no stranger to taking cases to trial
- Stellar online reviews
- Free initial consultation
Whether you’re in Denton or Collin County — or anywhere else in North Texas — the Edgett Law Firm has a dedicated legal team that’s here to assist. An experienced criminal defense lawyer can review your case and help you understand all your legal options. When you contact our law offices, we’ll schedule you for a free consultation so you can learn more without any risk or obligation. If you’re hoping to avoid a criminal conviction, our firm will be working tirelessly on your behalf throughout your case.
Contact Our Denton County Manslaughter Defense Lawyer Today
If you’re arrested in relation to the death of another person, you’re no doubt stressed and unsure of what comes next. While it’s certainly true that manslaughter is considered a lesser crime than murder, the consequences can sometimes be terrifyingly similar. This is one of the many difficult realities of criminal law, and navigating such issues can be challenging. Fortunately, you don’t have to go through these difficulties alone. Experienced criminal defense lawyers can give you a fighting chance when facing serious charges.
At Edgett Law Firm, you’ll work with experienced legal counsel at a law firm that’s served North Texas since 2010. During that time, we’ve handled thousands of cases for our clients. We know that uncertainty throughout this process can be terrifying, but rest assured that we’ll provide the strongest defense possible in your case. Don’t fall victim to police or prosecutor promises — and don’t leave your future in the hands of an overworked public defender. Contact us at 972-424-0760 to schedule your free consultation with a Denton County manslaughter defense lawyer today.