Alcohol and other substances impair one’s ability to think clearly and respond. If you engage in driving while intoxicated, it could lead to the death of another person. In these cases, you could face intoxication manslaughter charges. This criminal offense can result in jail time and fines.
Getting solid legal defense is essential in your criminal defense case. A Fort Worth, TX intoxication manslaughter lawyer from the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg can help you with your case.
Defining Intoxication Manslaughter Under Texas Law
Though manslaughter results in the death of another, it is not viewed as severe as murder under the law. In a murder situation, there is often intent. When someone commits manslaughter, they may have reacted emotionally or acted negligently. Still, they may not have intended to kill another.
In Texas, intoxication manslaughter typically has the following components:
- Someone is intoxicated, either with alcohol, drugs, or both
- They operate a motor vehicle or engage in other similar behavior, like operating an aircraft or boat while intoxicated
- Their actions while intoxicated lead them to accidentally cause the death of another
What Are the Penalties for Intoxication Manslaughter in Texas?
Intoxication manslaughter is a second-degree felony in Texas. However, there are some situations where it could be a first-degree felony. For example, suppose someone kills a firefighter or policeman. In that case, they could be charged with a first-degree felony.
In Texas, the charges for felonies exist in a range. For a second-degree felony, a person could face between two to 20 years in prison. They may also have to pay a fine of up to $10,000. For a first-degree felony, you could face five to 99 years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine.
What Are My Rights If I Am Accused of Intoxication Manslaughter?
Law enforcement officers and the courts must act within the boundaries of the law in any criminal cases, including those of intoxication manslaughter. Suppose you have been accused of intoxication manslaughter. In that case, you have certain rights protected throughout the entire process of your case:
- The right to remain silent: You do not have to speak against yourself. Instead, the state must present evidence of your guilt.
- The right to an attorney: Your attorney will be by your side and represent you throughout all legal proceedings.
- The right to know the charges against you: You will be informed of the specific charges against you.
- The right to a fair trial: A court of law will hear your intoxication manslaughter case. The courts will decide guilt or innocence based on the evidence presented in your case.
Understanding your rights is critical in an intoxication manslaughter case, and knowing them allows you to report any violation of your rights during any proceedings.
What Are the Benefits of Working with a Fort Worth, TX Intoxication Manslaughter Lawyer?
In the U.S., you have the right to an attorney, but finding a qualified and experienced one can make a significant difference in your case’s outcome. Your attorney should have both the credentials and experience that qualify them to take your case. In an intoxication manslaughter case, your lawyer will learn what happened, collect favorable evidence, determine possible defenses, and more.
Your lawyer will review all the legal options available to you and offer advice on how you should proceed with your case. From here, they will work to represent you and show the court the evidence in your favor, such as factors that would reduce the court’s sentence or get your charges dropped altogether.
You have enough going on and should leave legal matters to us. We are happy to manage your case from start to finish, fighting for your best outcome.
The Experience of the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg
We have over 30 years of experience handling criminal defense cases. One of our specialty areas is intoxication manslaughter. We have a thorough understanding of Texas law and how these laws will apply to your case. We advocate for you to get your charges reduced or dropped. Our goal is to clear your name so you can move forward more easily.
Consider what one client shared about their experience working with us:
“I was in jail for 6 months, and I was facing 20 years in prison on three felony charges. I had lost hope and faced years in prison. However, Mr. Isenberg and his team got two of my charges dismissed, and on the 3rd one, I was placed on probation on deferred probation. I am so thankful for Mr. Isenberg and his team. If anyone is facing years in prison, look no further and call the Law Office Of Randall Isenberg, the best of best! You will not regret it. I am a free man. Thanks to this awesome law firm.” ~ Victor
We helped this client and we’re ready to help you now.
What Will the Outcome Be in an Intoxication Manslaughter Case?
When someone is convicted of intoxication manslaughter, the person would serve the full sentence and pay any fines. However, this is not always the outcome in an intoxication manslaughter case. If you have been charged with intoxication manslaughter, your attorney could work towards several possible outcomes, depending on the specifics of your case.
In some situations, they work to negotiate a plea bargain. In a plea bargain, you plead guilty to the charges but may receive a reduced sentence.
For example, a first-degree felony could be reduced to a second-degree felony. The charges against you could also be dropped entirely. Finally, the courts could also decide you are not guilty of the charges based on the evidence presented. Don’t wait any longer to find out what we can do for you.
Get Started with Your Tarrant County Case Today
A strong legal defense can make all the difference in your case’s outcome. Our legal team is ready to review your case and all its involved factors. You can count on us to exhaust all your options and work to present all the evidence that can turn your case around. Contact the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg now to receive a free case review.
