El Paso Homicide Defense Lawyers: Protecting Your Rights And Presumption Of Innocence
Last updated on January 22, 2025
Facing homicide charges is undoubtedly the most serious legal threat you will ever encounter. The gravity of these charges can trigger instant judgment from others. It’s crucial to have a lawyer to proactively protect your presumption of innocence.
You can turn to the Valenzuela Law Firm in El Paso for the unwavering advocacy you need during this critical time. For nearly a decade, our firm has been a tenacious defender of the accused. We are led by an award-winning, Ivy League-educated defense attorney. Our entire team shares a commitment to staunchly upholding the presumption of innocence for those facing serious state or federal charges in Texas.
What To Know About Homicide Charges In Texas
There are multiple types of homicide charges, each with a unique set of elements that the prosecution must prove. These charges include:
- Capital murder
- Felony murder
- Murder
- Manslaughter
- Voluntary manslaughter
- Involuntary manslaughter
- Intoxication manslaughter
- Criminally negligent homicide
- Federal murder
- Federal manslaughter
Our lawyers understand the nuanced classifications of homicide crimes, their penalties and strategies to combat them. We can defend you at all stages of the criminal process, from bail hearings to plea negotiations, trial and any appeals that may follow.
Understanding Murder Charges In Texas
People often use the terms “murder” and “homicide” interchangeably, but there are important distinctions between the two. Homicide refers to an unlawful killing, and murder is a specific type of homicide. Section 19.02 of the Texas Penal Code defines murder in the following ways:
- Intentionally causing the death of another person
- Intentionally causing another person serious bodily injury and causing their death as a result
- Causing the death of another during the attempt or commission of a felony other than manslaughter (a crime that is referred to as “felony murder”)
- Knowingly manufacturing or delivering certain drugs to someone who then dies as a result of contact with or use of the drug (called the “fentanyl murder rule”)
Murder charges are further categorized by degrees. First-degree murder charges require premeditation (planning ahead) and the intent to kill. If convicted of first-degree murder, you face between five and 99 years in prison (or life in prison) and a fine of $10,000.
Second-degree murder charges require intent but no premeditation. They are often referred to as “crimes of passion” because they can occur during a heated argument or similar encounter. If convicted of second-degree murder, you face a $10,000 fine plus two to 20 years in prison.
Whether you have already been charged or are still under investigation for murder, you cannot afford delays in action. Contact our firm today to get started on your defense as early as possible.
Facing Capital Murder Charges?
Capital murder is the most serious homicide charge in Texas, and it carries the harshest penalties. You may be facing life imprisonment without the possibility of parole or even the death penalty. Our attorneys have the experience and skill set it takes to defend against these charges.
Champions For Your Rights And Freedoms
If you have been charged with a Texas murder, “not guilty” are the only words you want to hear at trial. You need an aggressive, experienced attorney to protect your interests at every turn. Our lawyers understand that being accused is not the same as being guilty, and they are ready to stand by your side and champion your rights. Contact us today at 915-292-3173 for a strong, dynamic defense that could tilt the scales toward a favorable resolution.