At The Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg, we know that being accused of murder or assault does not equate to guilt. We also know that hiring a skilled murder and assault lawyer in Keller is the best way to evade charges or harsher sentencing. If you are facing charges, increase your chances of a positive outcome by trusting us to manage your case.
Our criminal defense attorneys serving Keller, TX, will be by your side, fiercely presenting your case and challenging the prosecution’s evidence to seek a favorable outcome. By following these steps and working closely with your attorney, you are taking your power back to protect your rights and give yourself the best chance at a successful defense.
What to Do if Accused of Murder or Assault?
When facing criminal charges, you have to be your strongest advocate until you have the support needed to navigate the criminal justice system confidently. The best decision that you can make to help your case is to hire an experienced assault lawyer near Keller, TX, or a Keller murder attorney who knows how to bolster your defense. In the meantime, you should:
Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent
Under Miranda law, anything you say can be used against you in court. Exercise your right to remain silent and avoid discussing the details of the case with anyone, including law enforcement, without legal representation present.
Be polite and cooperative, but refrain from making any statements or providing information that could be misconstrued or used against you.
Preserve Evidence
If possible, gather and preserve any evidence that may be helpful to your defense. This could include photographs, text messages, emails, or any other relevant documents. Share this evidence with your attorney, as they will be able to assess its value and determine how to utilize it in your defense best.
Compile a List of Witnesses
Identify potential witnesses who can provide testimony or support your version of events. This may include friends, family members, coworkers, or other individuals who were present at the time of the incident or have relevant information.
Share this list with your attorney so they can interview these witnesses and potentially bring them to testify on your behalf.
Follow Your Attorney’s Advice
Your Keller murder and assault attorney is your legal guide and advocate. Listen to their advice and follow their instructions regarding legal strategy, court appearances, and interactions with law enforcement or other parties involved in the case. Trust their experience in navigating the complexities of murder and assault defense.
Maintain Your Composure and Patience
Legal proceedings can be lengthy and emotionally taxing. It is essential to remain composed, patient, and resilient throughout the process.
Trust in your The Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg and focus on providing us with the necessary information we need to build a strong defense on your behalf.
Potential Consequences of a Murder or Assault Conviction in Texas
If convicted of murder or assault, the penalties you face can range from probation to years in prison. Exactly how much time is on the line for your murder or assault conviction depends on things like:
- Texas laws
- The details of what happened
- Whether it’s assault vs aggravated assault, manslaughter vs homicide, as charges escalate based on harm and intent
- Your personal criminal history since first-time offenses tend to be treated more leniently.
With so much variability, an experienced assault and murder attorney in Keller can look at the specifics of your case and pursue strategies aimed at minimizing penalties as much as possible.
Punishment for Murder in Texas
Murder charges escalate in severity, and so do the punishments. According to Texas Penal Code § 19.03, a capital murder conviction can potentially bring the harshest sentences – either the death penalty or life in prison without parole.
First-degree murder is the next most serious charge. Typical penalties for a first-degree conviction run anywhere from five years to life imprisonment. Second-degree murder cases generally result in shorter but still substantial prison times of two to 20 years.
Punishment for Assault in Texas
Assault in Texas encompasses two main categories: aggravated assault and simple assault.
Under Texas Penal Code 22.02, aggravated assault is considered a felony offense in Texas. The severity of the offense depends on the circumstances involved. It can be classified as a second-degree felony, carrying a prison sentence of two to 20 years, or a first-degree felony, resulting in a prison term of five to 99 years or even life imprisonment.
In Texas, simple assault is typically categorized as a Class C misdemeanor. The penalty for this offense is generally a fine of up to $500.
It’s advisable to seek guidance from a qualified murder and assault attorney in Keller, TX, to fully understand the intricacies of both murder and assault laws and the potential consequences or enhancements associated with each.
Determining the Best Defense for Your Assault or Murder Charge
Determining the most appropriate defense strategy for a murder or assault case requires a thorough analysis of the specific facts and circumstances surrounding the case. A skilled defense attorney will employ various strategies, including the following, to assess the situation and develop an effective defense:
- Case evaluation: The attorney will conduct a comprehensive review of all available evidence, including police reports, witness statements, forensic evidence, and any other relevant documentation. They will also interview the client to obtain their account of the events.
- Legal research: We will research the applicable laws, statutes, and relevant legal precedents related to murder or assault charges. This research helps identify any potential weaknesses in the prosecution’s case or legal avenues for defense.
- Expert consultation: Depending on the nature of the case, your defense attorney may consult with experts such as forensic specialists, medical professionals, or psychologists. These experts can provide insights and analysis that strengthen the defense strategy or challenge the prosecution’s evidence.
- Interview witnesses: We will interview witnesses to gather additional information, clarify details, and identify potential inconsistencies or biases in their statements. Witness testimony can be critical in shaping the defense strategy.
- Exploring mitigating factors: If the evidence against the defendant is strong, we may focus on identifying mitigating factors that could potentially reduce the charges or penalties. This may include factors such as lack of prior criminal history, self-improvement efforts, or evidence of good character.
- Negotiation and plea bargaining: In some cases, it may be in the client’s best interest to negotiate a plea bargain with the prosecution. We will assess the strength of the case, potential sentencing outcomes, and the client’s goals to determine if a plea bargain is a viable option.
- Building a trial strategy: If the case proceeds to trial, we will develop a comprehensive trial strategy. This includes selecting the most effective defense theories, preparing witnesses, cross-examining prosecution witnesses, and presenting evidence that supports the defense’s position.
Our experienced Keller defense attorneys will leverage their knowledge and understanding of Texas criminal law to determine the most appropriate defense strategy that will give you the best leverage to get a reduced or cleared sentence.
When Is the Best Time to Get a Lawyer for a Criminal Case?
Immediately. Taking the first step towards a positive resolution doesn’t have to be difficult or complicated. Contact The Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg today and schedule a comprehensive consultation session with a murder and assault lawyer in Keller, TX, to discuss your legal options.
