Murder and Manslaughter Defense Lawyer in Austin, Texas

Facing charges of murder or manslaughter is one of the most significant life-changing experiences anyone can encounter. Texas law dictates that charges related to murder or manslaughter result in the most severe punishments. These penalties may include decades of imprisonment, life without parole, or even the death penalty. The consequences of these charges extend beyond legal outcomes to cause serious harm in social and professional areas. Your choice of legal representation becomes even more critical under such dire circumstances.

At Marc Chavez Law Firm, our mission is simple. Our Murder defense lawyer​s deliver fierce legal defense plans that are customized to support clients facing the most severe criminal charges. Marc Chavez uses his extensive background as a former prosecutor to anticipate the state’s strategies. This allows him to effectively safeguard your rights and battle for your freedom. Call Marc Chavez Law Firm at 512-337-9774 for your free, confidential consultation.

Why Choose Marc Chavez Law Firm?

During his years as a prosecutor for the Travis County District Attorney’s Office, Attorney Marc Chavez conducted investigations and collaborated with law enforcement while managing complex felony cases, including homicide trials. His experience provides him with an unusual edge in defense work.

In-Depth Knowledge of the Criminal Justice System

Marc has not only mastered the criminal justice system but also actively participated in the case-building process from within. He understands the types of evidence prosecutors use and the factors that sway juries, as well as how charges develop from initial arrest to courtroom trial. When Marc Chavez defends you, he anticipates the prosecution’s moves and strategically counters their courtroom strategies.

From Rising Star to Super Lawyer

Marc’s dual success as a prosecutor and defense attorney has earned him significant recognition. He achieved Rising Star status before earning Super Lawyer recognition for four straight years. This honor goes to only 5% of Texas lawyers. The honors Marc has received demonstrate his technical abilities, along with his profound dedication to justice and excellence in both client representation and courtroom performance.

Murder vs. Manslaughter in Texas

Every homicide charge relates to the unlawful killing of another person. However, these charges differ from each other in their specific legal ramifications. The exact charge depends on several key legal factors, such as intent, recklessness, premeditation, and circumstance.

Capital Murder

Capital murder is the most serious legal charge. It typically includes specific aggravating factors, such as:

• Murder for hire
• Killing multiple people
• Killing an officer or a fireman in the line of duty
• Committing the murder while in the process of committing another felony, such as robbery

The punishment for capital murder usually results in life in prison without the possibility of parole or the death penalty, depending on the details of the crime.

Murder

A murder charge is brought against a person who intentionally or knowingly ends another person’s life. Premeditation is not required—only intent.

Felony Murder

The felony murder rule allows prosecutors to charge someone with murder if they commit a felony and another person dies in the process. Charges can be brought whether or not the death was accidental.

Manslaughter

A person who causes death through reckless actions without intending to kill may face manslaughter charges. This crime is classified as a second-degree felony, which carries serious consequences.

Criminally Negligent Homicide

Criminally negligent homicide occurs when death results from negligent actions that show less culpability than reckless conduct. The punishment for criminally negligent homicide includes a state jail sentence ranging from 180 days to two years. A fine of up to $10,000 is also possible.

Defenses Against Homicide Charges

Every homicide case presents a unique combination of facts and legal considerations. Marc Chavez Law Firm designs specific strategies that fully address the complexity of each case.

Self-Defense

When you acted in lawful self-defense or protected someone from harm, you can establish a complete defense against a murder charge. We collaborate with use-of-force professionals to determine if your actions stood as reasonable and lawful according to specific conditions.

Challenging Evidence

Marc Chavez examines the prosecution’s case through multiple perspectives, including:

• Were there flaws in the investigation?
• Are the eyewitnesses reliable?
• Was forensic evidence mishandled or misrepresented?
• Did the police violate any of your constitutional rights when they arrested you or conducted questioning?

These points represent fundamental elements necessary for building a strong defense.

Lack of Intent

The prosecution frequently pursues murder charges when the evidence supports lesser offenses or complete innocence. Marc identifies these weaknesses in the prosecution’s case early. He works to negotiate lower charges or to build strong trial defenses.

Motions to Suppress

Evidence obtained through illegal methods, including coerced confessions and warrantless searches, must be excluded from trials. Marc Chavez has demonstrated his proficiency in arguing these motions from both perspectives. He understands how to maximize their impact.

The Legal Process in a Texas Homicide Case

Undergoing an investigation or arrest for homicide crimes can be overwhelming. Learning the subsequent steps provides a sense of regained control and clarity.

Arrest/Investigation

Homicide investigations do not always start with an immediate arrest. Law enforcement may approach you as a “person of interest” without filing any charges in certain situations. Don’t wait. Your rights and future become vulnerable before formal charges are filed against you.

Grand Jury

Murder and manslaughter cases require prosecutors to obtain grand jury approval before formally filing charges. Prosecutors deliver their case presentation to a private panel of citizens. A capable defense attorney can present evidence and legal arguments through a Grand Jury Packet. This advises the panel to avoid indicting or to seek reduced charges.

Arraignment and Bail

An indictment leads to formal charges, followed by a bail hearing. Marc Chavez actively defends clients by working to ensure fair bail amounts and blocking excessive or unfair pretrial detention.

Investigation

The state’s evidence becomes available to us as we initiate our independent investigation. Our investigation includes interviewing witnesses and examining crime scenes. We often hire professionals and conduct independent forensic analysis separate from the state’s account.

Pretrial Motions

During pretrial motions, Marc Chavez submits strategic requests to suppress evidence and contest the admissibility of certain statements. He also attempts to block the introduction of any prejudicial or unconstitutional evidence at trial.

Trial and Negotiation

Certain legal cases require trial proceedings. Others can be effectively settled through negotiation. Marc’s dual experience as a prosecutor and defense attorney enables him to give practical advice while delivering forceful representation, regardless of legal strategy direction.

Sentencing

If you are convicted, sentencing is the next step. If the outcome is unjust, Marc can fight for an appeal to challenge the decision.

Related Charges That May Be Filed

Homicide is not always the only charge that can be brought against you. Prosecutors regularly combine multiple charges to strengthen their bargaining power. Marc Chavez stands ready to defend you against every type of accusation you face. Some of these include:

• Aggravated Assault With a Deadly Weapon: This charge arises frequently in cases involving attempted murder charges or when victims survive attacks. This charge qualifies as a first-degree felony, which results in severe legal penalties.
  
• Tampering With Evidence: The state can bring forward a charge of tampering with evidence when they suspect you moved a body or changed a crime scene. This may be an attempt to reinforce their legal strategy or validate a murder accusation.
  
• Felony Firearms Possession: The use of a firearm during a felony or possession of an illegal gun can lead to enhanced charges or increased sentencing.
  
• Obstructing or Hindering a Prosecution: People who help others escape arrest or provide false information to investigators can face these charges, even if they weren’t involved in the alleged murder.

What to Do if You’re Charged With Murder or Manslaughter

Your top priority after being charged with murder or manslaughter should be maintaining your composure and asserting your right to remain silent. Resist the urge to tell your version of events to law enforcement or any investigators except your legal representative.

Even statements made with good intentions can be misunderstood or used against you. Your foremost concern must be to obtain legal representation from skilled attorneys.

Marc Chavez Law Firm should be contacted without delay to ensure your rights are protected from the beginning. Our manslaughter defense lawyer​ can initiate an independent investigation and provide you with guidance during any law enforcement interactions. Our murder defense lawyer in Austin TX​ can protect your defense from damaging errors.

Act quickly, as your available options diminish over time. A former prosecutor like Marc Chavez can offer your greatest chance of success if you consult him as soon as you’re aware of your legal issues.

Contact Marc Chavez Law Firm Today

The prosecution team conducts witness interviews and evidence reviews while preparing its trial strategy against you. Each passing day of waiting allows the prosecution to make additional progress in their case against you. Don’t give them that advantage.

Whether you are currently being investigated, have just been arrested, or are still facing formal charges, you must respond rapidly. By hiring an experienced defense attorney at an early stage, you maximize your legal options and enhance your defense strategy.

Contact 512-337-9774 immediately to arrange your no-cost, confidential consultation with Marc Chavez. Act now to secure the support of a former prosecutor who can fight for your future.