Manslaughter Attorney in Brazoria County
Defending Against Manslaughter Charges in Texas
When facing manslaughter charges in Texas, the stakes are undeniably high. Your future and freedom hang in the balance, and you need experienced legal representation. Crenshaw & Purvis, our manslaughter attorney in Brazoria County, will guide you through this challenging legal process.
Our firm has decades of experience handling cases across Brazoria County, including court appearances in Angleton and nearby cities. We maintain established relationships with local prosecutors and understand the tendencies of the district courts, such as the 23rd and 300th District Courts. This local knowledge provides insight into the unique procedures and expectations present in this area, which can prove crucial when evaluating your options and preparing your defense.
Manslaughter cases are complex and often involve accidental deaths or situations where intent is hard to prove. We are committed to providing you with vigorous defense strategies that protect your legal rights and give you the strongest possible chance for a favorable outcome.
Call Crenshaw & Purvis today at (979) 200-4746 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our manslaughter lawyer in Brazoria County.
What is Manslaughter?
Manslaughter in Texas is a serious criminal offense defined as the unlawful killing of another person without malice aforethought, which distinguishes it from murder. Texas law does not use the terms "involuntary manslaughter" or "voluntary manslaughter." Instead, the state's manslaughter laws combine these concepts into a single charge, with penalties that can be increased under certain circumstances.
Texas Penal Code § 19.04 defines manslaughter as recklessly causing the death of another individual. Unlike murder, prosecutors do not need to prove intent to kill, only that someone's actions showed a conscious disregard for a substantial risk. These cases might involve fatal car accidents or accidental firearm discharges. Local law enforcement, including the Brazoria County Sheriff's Office and police departments, often investigate these incidents, and the Brazoria County District Attorney’s Office generally files charges. Understanding the local legal process enables us to assess the specific facts in each case.
The Difference Between Manslaughter & Murder in Texas
Manslaughter and murder differ mainly in the presence or absence of intent. Under Texas law, murder requires proof that the person planned or knowingly caused the death of another individual. In contrast, manslaughter only requires proof that the act was reckless—meaning the person consciously disregarded a substantial risk. For local cases in Brazoria County, this distinction plays a major role in how prosecutors charge a case and how defense strategies unfold in court. You can face manslaughter charges for behavior lacking premeditation but still resulting in tragedy, while murder charges result when the evidence points to intentional acts.
District courts in Brazoria County, including the 149th and 300th, weigh this difference at each phase, including arraignment, pretrial, and trial. Our experience with both charges allows us to explain the legal consequences for your case and how Texas law applies to your circumstances. When prosecutors choose between manslaughter and murder charges, your defense options, possible penalties, and negotiation opportunities all shift. You deserve clear, practical advice on how these differences affect your defense.
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Why Crenshaw & Purvis?
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Honest, Knowledgeable, Professional Representation
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Focused Practice on Criminal Defense and DWI
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Established Track Record of Proven Success
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Over 55 Years of Combined Experience
Hear From Our Happy Clients
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“This law firm is the one you need. They are absolute consummate professionals whom deserve the praise. Thank you so much Mr. Purvis for resolving my legal case, and I couldn't have hoped for a better outcome. You were worth every single penny.”- Dean H.
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“I put my faith in Jeff Purvis, and his team! My court appointed attorney was a complete failure, who suggested he'd request being removed from my case because I asked him to request a dismissal. The case had so many things wrong with it, and even with a plaintiffs request of non-prosecution and two witnesses, my attorney tried to get me to take a plea, for something I was innocent of, even suggesting he couldn't win because of a past record and my race, and stated "It is Brazoria County!" I had 8 months unable to work at regular job because it was already showing on a background check. Just out of surgery, not making money, and this too!”- David R.
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“I found Crenshaw & Purvis beginning of 2024, about 6 months from when the “assault” I was accused of took place. I was terrified, never had a criminal history, and the way society is going right now, I thought I would be guilty without a doubt, no matter the circumstances. As someone who isn’t easily trusting, I put full trust and full faith in Jeff Purvis and Paralegal Brittany Young, and they did exactly what they said they were gonna do. #NOTGUILTY. I cried to them tears of joy and hugs galore lol, will never forget Jeff and Brittany, the sweetest and the realest!!!!”- Alaisha H.
Defenses Against Manslaughter Charges
Defending against manslaughter charges requires a deep understanding of the law and your case's specific facts. We carefully analyze every detail to develop a solid, strategic defense.
Our team at Crenshaw & Purvis tailors defense strategies to your situation, which may include:
- Self-Defense: If you acted to protect yourself or others from imminent harm, self-defense may apply.
- Lack of Intent: Demonstrating that you did not have the intent to cause harm or death is crucial for building a strong defense.
- Alibi: Providing evidence that you were not present at the scene when the incident occurred can be a strong defense against manslaughter charges.
- Procedural Errors: We examine evidence, police procedures, and witness statements to identify irregularities or mistakes in the investigation or legal process that could benefit your defense.
We draw on our experience in Brazoria County’s district courts and our familiarity with local prosecutors to identify which defenses are most effective here. Understanding how judges and juries review police reports informs the strategies we build.
We keep you updated throughout—from the investigation and indictment to plea negotiations or trial. We also prepare you for hearings held at the Angleton courthouse, helping you know what to expect every step of the way. Our goal is to use our local experience and legal knowledge to your advantage throughout the process.
Potential Outcomes & Sentencing Alternatives in Brazoria County
Facing a manslaughter charge does not always result in a long prison term. District judges in Brazoria County sometimes consider alternatives to incarceration, especially when there is meaningful mitigation or evidence of remorse. The court may permit probation, known as community supervision, allowing you to serve your sentence in the community under specific conditions. Completion of court-ordered education or counseling programs could also affect your sentencing options.
Every case is different. Presenting your background, community involvement, and positive factors may impact a judge's decision. We review all possible resolutions in light of specific practices and any input from the District Attorney’s Office. Understanding each potential outcome, from plea agreements to trial verdicts, gives you clarity in making decisions as your case progresses.
