Intoxication manslaughter happens when someone drunk or impaired by substances drives and unintentionally causes one’s death. If you are convicted of intoxication manslaughter, you could face hefty fines and imprisonment.
If you were accused of intoxication manslaughter, you have the right to a criminal defense attorney to represent you in your case. A Sachse, TX intoxication manslaughter lawyer from the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg is ready to help you with your case.
Overview of Intoxication Manslaughter
Manslaughter results in the death of another person, so it is serious but not as severe as murder under the law. In murder cases, the murderer intentionally sought to harm the victim. In manslaughter, there is less intentionality. For example, involuntary manslaughter is when someone dies because of someone else’s negligent actions.
Intoxication manslaughter happens when someone is under the influence of alcohol or drugs that impair them from thinking or acting as they would sober. For example, let’s say someone has several alcoholic drinks and then decides to drive.
While driving, they unintentionally cause a collision, resulting in someone’s death. While the driver did not intend to cause someone’s death, they may be guilty of intoxication manslaughter under Texas law.
Penalties for Intoxication Manslaughter
In Texas, intoxication manslaughter is typically a second-degree felony. Anyone who commits a second-degree felony could face between two and 20 years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine.
In some situations, the person could face first-degree felony charges. For example, suppose they caused the death of a policeman or member of emergency medical personnel. In that case, they could face first-degree felony charges. If the courts convict them of a first-degree felony, they could face between five and 99 years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine.
In addition to intoxication manslaughter, someone could face additional penalties depending on the situation. If a child was in the vehicle they were operating while intoxicated, they could also face charges for a state jail felony. For this, they could serve up to two years in a state jail and up to a $10,000 fine.
What Will Happen If I Am Accused of Intoxication Manslaughter?
Intoxication manslaughter is a criminal offense. After your arrest, you will be informed of the specific charges against you.
Like other criminal cases, you have certain protections under U.S. law and the U.S. constitution. For example, you have the right to a trial by jury. You also have the right to an attorney. Your attorney can be with you while you answer questions from the police so you do not incriminate yourself.
The courts will hear your case, and both sides will have the chance to present the evidence of what happened. If the courts find you guilty of the charges, the courts will sentence you based on the guidelines of Texas law.
How Does Working with a Sachse, TX Intoxication Manslaughter Lawyer Help?
A strong legal defense is critical in an intoxication manslaughter case. Your lawyer represents you in all legal proceedings and works to present the evidence in your favor. For example, if you choose to plead not guilty, your lawyer will work to show proof that you did not commit what you are charged with. In other situations, your lawyer will help present evidence that may warrant a lighter sentence.
Your lawyer will review what happened, work with witnesses, and handle all communications with the other side.
You want to find an attorney familiar with handling cases like yours who understands the Texas laws and regulations applying to your case. Your attorney also acts as your advisor and can help you decide the best action based on your circumstances.
Possible Case Outcomes and Defenses in an Intoxication Manslaughter Case
We cannot know what your case’s outcome will be for certain. However, our legal team will work to present the evidence in your favor to the court. Our legal team’s strategies will depend on your situation’s specifics. A few options may include the following:
- Noting the actions of law enforcement and any violations that occurred during your arrest and the events leading up to your arrest
- Demonstrating that no crime occurred or that you were not responsible for what happened
- Presenting to the courts mitigating factors that would impact your sentencing, such as your lack of a criminal record or prior circumstances that influenced what happened
- Working with the prosecutor to work out a plea bargain, which may result in a lighter sentence or dropped charges
While in some situations you may be convicted of all charges, in others, the charges against you may be reduced or dropped.
When we discuss your case with you, we will determine the best actions to take. We will fight tirelessly for the outcome you deserve.
Client Testimonials
The Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg has over 30 years of experience and can help in several areas of criminal defense, including intoxication manslaughter. Consider what a few of our clients have shared after working with us:
“The Isenberg law offices are filled with professionals who take every case and client seriously as if they’re going up to bat for their own family members. Our family will look only to Isenberg whenever we need a great lawyer.” ~ Christobpher
“Simply the best criminal defense lawyer in Texas! We hired him to represent our family on a felony case that not only could have had my father behind bars for the rest of his life but could of taken the most vital member of our family from us.” ~Nuria
We helped these clients and we’re ready to help you.
Begin Your Case Today with a Free Consultation
Our legal team at the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg is ready to review your case and pursue the best legal route for you. We will bring our legal experience and in-depth knowledge to your intoxication manslaughter case and work towards a favorable outcome. We will keep you updated on the progress of your case and answer any questions promptly.
Contact us today for a free consultation and find out how we can help in either Collin or Dallas County. There is no obligation.
