SAN ANTONIO MURDER DEFENSE LAWYER – LAW OFFICES OF PATRICK L. HANCOCK

In Texas, murder charges are categorized into different degrees, each carrying severe penalties. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for anyone facing such serious accusations. The Texas Penal Code outlines the following degrees of murder:

1. First-Degree Murder: This is the most severe type of murder charge involving the intentional or knowing act of causing the death of another person. It includes premeditated murder and cases where the defendant intended to kill or cause serious harm.
2. Capital Murder: This falls under first-degree murder but involves specific circumstances that elevate the charge, such as murdering a police officer, firefighter, or child under ten years old. It may also include murders committed during the commission of another felony, like robbery or kidnapping.
3. Second-Degree Murder (Voluntary Manslaughter): Though not recognized as a separate category under Texas law, it generally refers to situations where the defendant intentionally kills someone but does so in the "heat of passion" after being provoked.

The consequences of a murder conviction can be life-altering, making it imperative to have an experienced San Antonio criminal defense attorney on your side. At the Law Offices of Patrick L. Hancock, our murder defense lawyer is dedicated to protecting your rights and ensuring you receive a fair trial. Whether you're charged with first-degree or capital murder, our team provides expert legal representation to navigate these complex cases.

Understanding the difference between murder and manslaughter in Texas is essential, as the penalties and legal ramifications differ significantly. Here's a breakdown:

• Murder: In Texas, murder involves the intentional or knowing act of causing the death of another person. It is a first-degree felony, punishable by 5 to 99 years in prison or life imprisonment and a fine of up to $10,000. Murder charges can be elevated to capital murder under specific circumstances, leading to the possibility of the death penalty or life without parole.
• Manslaughter: Unlike murder, manslaughter is typically charged when the defendant causes the death of another person through recklessness rather than intent. It is classified as a second-degree felony, with penalties including 2 to 20 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.

The key difference lies in the intent and the circumstances surrounding the act. While murder involves a deliberate action, manslaughter is often the result of reckless behavior without the intention to kill. If you're facing charges of murder or manslaughter, it's crucial to work with a skilled violent crimes attorney. The Law Offices of Patrick L. Hancock offer the expertise of a seasoned murder defense attorney who understands the intricacies of these charges and can help build a strong defense.

A murder trial in Texas is a complex and rigorous legal process that involves several stages, each critical to the outcome of the case. Here's an overview of the typical process:

1. Arrest and Charges: The process begins with the defendant's arrest, followed by formal charges. If you're arrested for murder, it's vital to immediately contact a San Antonio criminal attorney to represent you.

1. Arraignment: During the arraignment, the charges are read, and the defendant enters a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. This is where your criminal defense lawyer will begin to craft your legal strategy.

1. Pretrial Hearings: These hearings address various legal issues before the trial begins, including motions to suppress evidence, witness lists, and plea negotiations. An experienced violent crimes defense lawyer will use this time to challenge the prosecution's case and strengthen your defense.

1. Trial: The trial itself consists of jury selection, opening statements, presentation of evidence, witness testimonies, cross-examinations, and closing arguments. Your murder defense lawyer will vigorously defend you, presenting evidence and countering the prosecution's claims.

1. Verdict and Sentencing: After both sides have presented their cases, the jury deliberates and delivers a verdict. If found guilty, the case moves to the sentencing phase, where the judge determines the punishment.

The stakes in a murder trial are extraordinarily high, making the choice of legal representation crucial. The Law Offices of Patrick L. Hancock has extensive experience in handling murder trials, providing clients with a robust defense throughout the process. If you're facing murder charges, our San Antonio criminal law attorney will guide you through every step, fighting to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome.

Yes, claiming self-defense is a valid defense in a murder case in Texas, but it requires a nuanced understanding of the law and the circumstances of the case. Under Texas law, you are entitled to use force, including deadly force, if you reasonably believe it is necessary to protect yourself from imminent harm.

To successfully claim self-defense, your murder defense attorney must demonstrate that:

• You were not the initial aggressor.
• You had a reasonable belief that deadly force was necessary to prevent imminent death or serious bodily harm.
• The force used was proportionate to the threat.

Texas law also includes the "Stand Your Ground" doctrine, which allows individuals to defend themselves without a duty to retreat if they are in a place where they have a legal right to be. This can be a critical aspect of your defense, especially if the incident occurred in your home or vehicle.

The Law Offices of Patrick L. Hancock specializes in defending clients who have acted in self-defense. Our experienced San Antonio criminal defense attorney will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your case, gathering evidence and witness statements to support your claim. If you believe you acted in self-defense, it's imperative to work with a skilled violent crimes attorney who can effectively argue your case in court.

Yes, a murder conviction can be appealed in Texas, but the process is complex and requires the expertise of an experienced criminal defense lawyer. An appeal is not a retrial but rather a legal process where a higher court reviews the trial court's decision to determine if legal errors were made that could have affected the outcome.

Common grounds for an appeal include:

1. Legal errors: Mistakes made by the trial judge, such as incorrect jury instructions or improperly admitted evidence.
2. Ineffective assistance of counsel: If your defense attorney failed to provide adequate representation, this could be grounds for appeal.
3. Jury misconduct: If the jury engaged in improper behavior that could have influenced the verdict.
4. Insufficient evidence: Arguing that the evidence presented at trial was not enough to support a conviction.

The appeals process begins with filing a notice of appeal, followed by submitting written briefs to the appellate court outlining the legal arguments. Oral arguments may also be held. If successful, the appeal could result in a reversal of the conviction, a new trial, or a reduced sentence.

At the Law Offices of Patrick L. Hancock, our murder defense lawyer is highly skilled in handling appeals. If you or a loved one has been convicted of murder, our San Antonio criminal attorney can review your case for possible errors and guide you through the appeals process. With our extensive experience, we are committed to fighting for justice and ensuring that your rights are protected every step of the way.

For any legal assistance regarding murder charges or other violent crimes in Texas, call the Law Offices of Patrick L. Hancock at (210) 223-8844.