Fort Worth Murder Lawyer
Few attorneys in Texas have heard the words “not guilty” from a jury after defending their client on the charge of murder. We have. Our Fort Worth murder lawyers have handled dozens of murder cases over the decades, first as prosecutors and now as defense attorneys. Experience matters.
How is Murder Defined in Texas?
In most murder cases, the defendant is accused of “intentionally or knowingly causing the death of another person.” However, the definition for murder in Texas is actually broader than that, and it includes deaths that were caused unintentionally, where the accused acted with the intent to cause serious bodily injury and committed an act that was clearly dangerous to the life of another. A person can also be charged with murder if, while committing a felony, he or she commits an act that is clearly dangerous to human life and causes a death.
What is the Punishment Range for Murder?
Murder is a first-degree felony in Texas, punishable by 5 to 99 years or life in prison and a maximum $10,000 fine. Texas does not allow juries to give probation for murder, pursuant to Code of Criminal Procedure 42A.056.
Can You Get an Appeal Bond after a Jury finds you Guilty of Murder?
No. Code of Criminal Procedure Article 44.04 prohibits an appeal bond on murder.
What is The Sudden Passion Defense in Texas?
Sudden passion is a mitigating finding that allows jurors to consider whether a murder defendant had been provoked to such a level of fear, rage or resentment that any reasonable person in a similar situation would have been “incapable of cool reflection.” If jurors find that a defendant acted in sudden passion, the maximum punishment for murder is reduced from life in prison to 20 years.
For more information, please reference the Code of Criminal Procedure Section 19.02.
Call a Fort Worth Murder Attorney for Legal Assistance
All of our senior attorneys are former state and federal prosecutors who have tried cases involving deaths in front of juries in Texas. An important factor in determining who you should have represent you is the experience they bring to the table. Few firms in the state have over 550 jury trials and thousands of criminal cases worth of experience. Few have the experience handling high-profile cases and managing the public’s opinion about their case. If you or a loved one has been charged with a serious or violent offense, call our Fort Worth murder lawyers today for help.
Review by a Client
By: A. Jones
Title: Murder: Not Guilty
I was arrested for murder on March, 27, 2014 I received a court-appointed attorney whose name I won’t discuss. She was no good for me never made communication or put forth the effort to help me. Then a blessing came I received Joetta Keene and Christie Jack. Two of the best lawyers I’ve ever witnessed. They are amazing watching them work left me in awe. I would not want to be on the wrong end of an argument with these ladies. Christie is so soft spoken, but the woman sure can make people tremble in their seat. I was nervous for the opposition. She grilled them good. As far as communication goes this woman did more for me in 2 months than my previous Lawyer did in 2 years this speaks volumes to her work ethic. She prepared for a murder trial at such a short notice. When we got the not guilty verdict. It was the right verdict but it was a well-deserved win for this nice lady. Very compassionate, I will forever recommend Mrs. Jack to anyone with legal troubles. One of the best in Texas. No Mrs. Jack was the blessing I needed and as a court-appointed attorney she did high class work. I’m forever grateful.
Rating:★★★★★ 5 / 5 stars
