Houston Intoxication Manslaughter Lawyer
Intoxication manslaughter is a strict offense in Houston, and is taken very seriously by the legal system. The crime occurs when an individual, under the influence of alcohol or drugs while operating a motor vehicle, causes the death of another person. Due to the tragic nature of these incidents and the irreversible loss of life, law enforcement and legal authorities in Texas are unyielding in their pursuit of justice in such cases. Contact an experienced Houston intoxication manslaughter lawyer at Ayson Law Firm to learn more about your rights and options.
Texas Intoxication Manslaughter Penalties & Conviction
Intoxication manslaughter is considered a second-degree felony under Texas law. Those found guilty of this offense face harsh penalties, including a prison sentence of 2-20 years, a fine of up to $10,000, and the suspension of their driver’s license for up to two years. Furthermore, the defendant may also be held financially responsible for any civil damages awarded to the victim’s family to cover funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and emotional suffering.
To secure a conviction for intoxication manslaughter, the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant was operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated and that their actions directly caused the death of another person. In Texas, a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher is considered legally intoxicated. However, even with a BAC below the legal limit, the prosecution can still argue that the defendant was impaired due to alcohol or drugs and present additional evidence to support their case.
Enforcing DWI & Intoxication
The Houston Police Department, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, and the Texas Department of Public Safety collaborate to combat intoxicated driving in the city. They employ various strategies, such as sobriety checkpoints and “No Refusal” weekends, to detect and apprehend intoxicated drivers. During “No Refusal” weekends, law enforcement can obtain a warrant to compel a blood test from drivers who refuse breathalyzer tests, ensuring that BAC levels are accurately determined.
When faced with intoxication manslaughter charges in Houston, it is imperative to seek the counsel of an experienced criminal defense attorney who specializes in DWI cases. A knowledgeable attorney can help defendants navigate the complexities of the legal process, challenge the evidence put forth by the prosecution, and strive to obtain the best possible outcome for their case.
Contact A Dedicated Houston Intoxication Manslaughter Lawyer
Intoxication manslaughter is a severe offense in Houston, TX, with life-altering consequences for both the defendant and the victim’s family. Given the dedication of law enforcement and legal authorities to addressing this issue, it is crucial for those charged with intoxication manslaughter to secure skilled legal representation. Ayson Law Firm offers expert guidance and support for individuals facing these daunting charges, working tirelessly to protect their rights and interests throughout the legal process.
