In our previous two posts we have talked about the differences between the various types of homicide charges in Texas, including manslaughter, negligent homicide, murder and capital murder. Anyone facing these charges needs a skillful and aggressive defense.
There are any number of potential defenses in a homicide case. One line of defense is a potential violation of the defendant's constitutional rights. If the prosecution's case is based on a confession that was coerced by police or obtained in violation of the defendant's right to an attorney, the charges can be dismissed. Similarly, if the evidence for the prosecution was seized in an unconstitutional search of the defendant's home, person or vehicle, the unlawfully obtained evidence can be suppressed before trial, weakening the prosecution's case.
A defendant facing homicide charges may claim that he or she was nowhere near the scene of the crime, and that their arrest was based on a mistaken identification by a witness. They may argue self-defense or insanity. They may argue that the victim's death resulted from an unintentional injury inflicted by accident.
In homicide cases the degree of mental culpability - intent, recklessness or criminal negligence - is often a central issue. Attacking the state's allegations of culpability can often result in a reduction or dismissal of the charges before trial.
At the Law Offices of Jed Silverman we approach all violent crime cases with relentless energy and the highest level of dedication to our client's cause. We painstakingly investigate the facts to identify the best possible defenses. We understand that our client's whole future is at stake, and we are committed to fighting aggressively for their freedom.