Murder Lawyer in Laredo

Facing a Murder Charge? Trusted Laredo Defense Attorneys Ready to Help

When you or someone you care about faces a murder accusation in Laredo, the consequences can be life altering. You need a legal team with real courtroom experience, local insight, and unwavering commitment to your defense. At Altgelt Law Office, P.C., we understand the stress and uncertainty you feel. Our mission is to guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and craft a strategic defense that puts your best interests first.

The criminal justice system in Laredo has unique procedures, local customs, and expectations shaped by the border region and Webb County courts. Handling a murder case here requires firsthand knowledge of judges, law enforcement, and prosecutors. We bring years of experience from Laredo courtrooms, helping us anticipate challenges and spot opportunities others might miss.

Facing a homicide charge is the most difficult experience a person can endure. Let a Laredo murder lawyer stand by your side and navigate the complexities of the Texas Penal Code. Call (956) 758-3001 now or contact us through our online form to schedule a free consultation.

Understanding Murder Laws in Texas

In the State of Texas, "murder" is a specific form of criminal homicide governed by Texas Penal Code § 19.02. Unlike some other states that use "degrees" (like first or second degree) as the primary naming convention, Texas generally classifies murder as a first-degree felony, though it can be reduced under specific circumstances.

Under the law, a person commits the offense of murder if they:

• Intentionally or knowingly cause the death of an individual.
• Intend to cause serious bodily injury and commit an act clearly dangerous to human life that causes the death of an individual.
• Commit or attempt to commit a felony (other than manslaughter) and, in the course of that felony or immediate flight from it, commit an act clearly dangerous to human life that results in death—this is commonly known as the "Felony Murder" rule.

It is vital to distinguish murder from other forms of homicide in Texas such as Capital Murder, which involves murder with "aggravating factors," Manslaughter, which is causing death by "reckless" behavior rather than intentional harm, and Criminally Negligent Homicide.

As your Laredo murder lawyer, we meticulously analyze the evidence to determine if the state has overcharged the offense, fighting to have charges reduced or dismissed whenever the facts do not support the highest level of prosecution.

Penalties and Collateral Consequences of Murder Convictions in Texas

The repercussions of a murder conviction in Texas are life-altering and extend far beyond the walls of a prison cell. Because murder is primarily classified as a first-degree felony, the statutory penalties are severe.

Direct Penalties

• Incarceration: A conviction can lead to a prison sentence ranging from 5 to 99 years or life imprisonment.
• Fines: The court may impose a fine of up to $10,000.
• Sudden Passion Mitigation: If the defense can prove at the punishment stage that the act was committed under the "immediate influence of sudden passion arising from an adequate cause," the offense level can be reduced to a second-degree felony, which carries a range of 2 to 20 years in prison.

Collateral Consequences

Even after a sentence is served, the "invisible" consequences remain:

• Firearm Rights: A felony conviction in Texas results in a lifetime ban on possessing firearms.
• Professional Licensing: You will likely be permanently barred from obtaining or keeping professional licenses in medicine, law, education, and many other fields.
• Immigration: For non-citizens, a murder conviction is an "aggravated felony," leading to mandatory deportation and a permanent bar from returning to the United States.
• Civil Liability: Families of the deceased may file "wrongful death" lawsuits in civil court, which can lead to massive financial judgments.