Fort Worth Murder Defense Lawyer
Robust Defense Against Murder Charges in Texas
The stakes are never higher than when you are charged with taking the life of another human being. If convicted, Texas penalties and punishments are harsh—in some cases, your life, in others, life spent behind bars. Emotions run high in murder cases, even when the death was unintentional.
Whether you are guilty with extenuating circumstances or innocent of the charges, you face an uphill battle against a prosecutor who has you in their sights and a jury that has a hard time putting emotion aside, so you should consider hiring a Fort Worth murder defense lawyer.
Having a Fort Worth murder defense lawyer from Burns & Davis by your side can be crucial for your future. We fully understand what’s at stake and that you are anxious and frightened about the coming months. An experienced Burns & Davis murder defense lawyer will build a solid defense on your behalf, fighting for you and your future every step of the way.
Don’t leave your freedom to chance. Partner with a skilled and fearless legal team that will fight tirelessly for your rights. Call (817) 873-1883 today or reach out online and take the first step toward protecting your future.
Understanding Murder Laws in Texas
In Texas, homicide is categorized into four distinct offenses under Chapter 19 of the Texas Penal Code: capital murder, murder, manslaughter, and criminally negligent homicide. Understanding the nuances of these laws is the first step in building a defense.
According to Texas Penal Code § 19.02, a person commits the offense of murder if they:
- Intentionally or knowingly cause the death of an individual.
- Intend to cause serious bodily injury and commit an act clearly dangerous to human life that results in death.
- Commit or attempt to commit a felony (other than manslaughter) and, in the course of that crime, commit an act clearly dangerous to human life that causes a death. This is known as the "Felony Murder Rule."
Capital murder is charged when one of the following occurred during the murder:
- The murder victim is a police officer
- Murder for hire was committed
- The murder was committed during the course of specific felony crimes (such as a sex crime)
- A prison inmate murders an employee or another prisoner
- The defendant was attempting to escape from prison when they kill another person
- More than one person is murdered during the same criminal act
- A child under the age of 15 is murdered
- The murder is in retaliation for the service or status of a criminal justice professional
It is important to distinguish murder from manslaughter. While murder requires an intentional or knowing mental state, manslaughter involves "recklessly" causing a death—meaning the person was aware of a substantial risk but disregarded it.
Furthermore, Texas law recognizes "Sudden Passion" as a mitigating factor. If we can prove that the act occurred under the immediate influence of sudden passion arising from an adequate cause (such as extreme provocation), the charge may be reduced from a first-degree felony to a second-degree felony during the sentencing phase.
Penalties for Murder Convictions in Texas
The legal and personal fallout of a murder conviction is absolute. Because murder is classified as a first-degree felony in Texas, the statutory penalties are among the most severe in the judicial system.
Direct Legal Penalties:
- Prison Time: A term of 5 to 99 years, or life imprisonment, in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.
- Fines: A fine not to exceed $10,000.
- Parole Restrictions: Individuals convicted of murder must serve a significant portion of their sentence—often at least 30 years or half the sentence—before becoming eligible for parole.
A capital murder case where the prosecutor seeks the death penalty requires the jury to decide between a death sentence and prison. If the prosecutor does not seek the death penalty, the mandatory sentencing for a defendant over the age of 18 convicted of capital murder is life in prison—with no parole. For a defendant under the age of 18, that changes to life in prison with the possibility of parole.
Our Commitment to You
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Relentless RepresentationWhether in or out of the courtroom, we fight passionately to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome for your future.
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Hablamos EspañolWe provide exceptional legal services in both English and Spanish, ensuring every client feels heard and understood. Your case is our priority.
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Proven Legal ExpertiseWith years of experience and a track record of success, we deliver strategic, results-driven solutions for even the most complex legal matters.
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Client-Centered AdvocacyAt Burns & Davis, we prioritize your needs, ensuring every case is handled with personalized attention and unwavering dedication.
Stories of Success
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"Very Professional and Very Attentive"
Mr. Davis handled three criminal cases and got all charges dismissed! Professional, attentive, and highly recommended for anyone in need of expert legal representation.
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"Life-Saving Legal Team"
These attorneys go above and beyond! Their dedication and expertise are unmatched. If you need help, they’ll work tirelessly for you. Thank you for everything!
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"Did Not Hang Up Until I Understood"
Nick took the time to answer all my questions and made me feel confident in my case. Professional, thorough, and truly cares—highly recommend!
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"Grateful for a Dismissed Case"
Blake Burns stood by me every step of the way and got my case dismissed! Truly a dedicated attorney. Highly recommend for exceptional legal support!
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The Texas Criminal Defense Process for Murder Charges
The path through the Tarrant County court system is long and complex. Our firm manages every detail of the criminal defense process to ensure your rights are never sidelined.
- Arrest and Initial Appearance: Following an arrest, you will be brought before a magistrate. In murder cases, bail is often set at an extremely high amount or denied entirely. We immediately petition for bail reductions to allow you to help prepare your defense from outside a jail cell.
- Grand Jury Indictment: In Texas, all felony charges must be presented to a grand jury. This is a secret proceeding where jurors decide if there is enough evidence to move forward. We often submit a "grand jury presentation" to provide the jurors with our side of the story in hopes of securing a "No Bill," which dismisses the charges.
- Discovery and Investigation: We obtain all evidence the state intends to use, including forensic reports, DNA evidence, ballistics, and witness statements. Our firm often employs independent investigators and forensic experts to re-examine the state’s findings.
- Pre-Trial Motions: We file motions to suppress evidence if your constitutional rights were violated during the investigation—such as illegal searches or coerced confessions.
- Trial: If a favorable plea agreement cannot be reached, the case goes to trial. This involves jury selection (voir dire), opening statements, witness testimony, and closing arguments.
- Sentencing: If a verdict of "guilty" is returned, a separate punishment phase occurs where we present mitigating evidence to the jury to seek the lowest possible sentence.
How a Fort Worth Murder Defense Lawyer from Burns & Davis Can Help
As premier Fort Worth murder defense lawyers, Burns & Davis inspire confidence and trust. We are both reliable and relatable, with more than a decade of favorable results for our clients. When you have been charged with a serious crime like murder, you want an attorney who will never back down, inside or outside the courtroom. We are fierce advocates for the well-being of our clients, both in the short and long term.
When you meet with a murder lawyer Fort Worth defendants can talk to directly, we walk you through the specific charges, possible sentencing ranges, and the way your case is likely to proceed in Tarrant County courts so you can make informed choices for yourself and your family.
If you want a criminal defense attorney whose standards of excellence for client service are unmatched, contact Burns & Davis, PLLC or call (817) 873-1883 today!
Your Questions, Answered Explore Our FAQ
Still have questions or can't find the answer you need? Give us a call at 817-873-1883 today!
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What is the difference between murder and manslaughter?While many states make the distinction between voluntary and involuntary manslaughter, Texas combines the two. The state will add enhanced penalties for certain aggravating factors in manslaughter charges under Texas Penal Code §19.04. Manslaughter requires that the defendant is shown beyond a reasonable doubt to have recklessly caused the death of another person. Manslaughter, unlike murder, does not require intent. The state of Texas does provide for “intoxication manslaughter”—when a death is the result of another’s impairment by drugs or alcohol.
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Is it possible to defend murder charges?While the majority of police and prosecutors are trying to do the right thing, sometimes they just get it wrong. Perhaps the investigation was so focused on you, that other suspect were ignored. Or perhaps you acted in self-defense, yet you are charged anyway. Your rights may have been violated during your arrest, or the entire investigation could have been conducted in a sloppy manner. Your Fort Worth murder defense lawyer from Burns & Davis will be laser-focused on defending you against a murder conviction.