Dallas Murder Defense Attorneys

Facing a murder charge is one of the most serious and life-changing events anyone can endure. In Texas, the penalties for a conviction are extremely harsh and often life-altering, including the possibility of life imprisonment or even the death penalty. If you or a loved one is being investigated for or charged with murder in Dallas, TX, it is critical to have an experienced and aggressive defense attorney at your side.

At Law Office of Patrick J. McLain, PLLC, our legal team provides skilled representation for individuals accused of murder and other violent crimes. As a trusted Dallas murder defense lawyer, we understand the high stakes involved and work tirelessly to protect your rights, your freedom, and your future.

Call (214) 238-9392 or contact us online today to schedule a confidential consultation with a trusted Dallas murder lawyer.

What is Murder?

Under Texas law, murder is defined as the intentional act of causing another person’s death. However, the legal definition is more nuanced and includes various scenarios in which a person can be charged. According to Texas Penal Code §19.02, a person may be charged with murder if they:

Intentionally or knowingly cause the death of another individual.

Intend to cause serious bodily injury and, in the process, commit an act that results in death.

Commit or attempt to commit a felony (other than manslaughter), and in the course of that act, cause the death of another.

It is important to note that Texas distinguishes between murder, capital murder, and manslaughter, with each carrying different legal standards and penalties. An experienced Dallas murder defense lawyer can help you understand the specific nature of the charges against you.

Murder Charges & Penalties in Texas

Texas imposes some of the strictest criminal penalties in the nation when it comes to violent crimes, including murder.

Murder (First-Degree Felony)

Punishable by 5 to 99 years or life in prison and up to $10,000 in fines.

Eligible for parole in most cases.

Capital Murder (Capital Felony)

Capital murder is considered the most serious homicide charge in Texas. Circumstances that may elevate a case to capital murder include:

• Killing a police officer, firefighter, or other public servant.
• Murder committed during the commission of another felony such as kidnapping, burglary, or sexual assault.
• Killing multiple victims.
• Murder for hire.

Penalties for capital murder include:

• Life in prison without the possibility of parole, or
• The death penalty (Texas is one of the few states that still enforces capital punishment).

Manslaughter (Second-Degree Felony)

While not classified as murder, manslaughter involves recklessly causing the death of another person. This charge carries up to 20 years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines.

Because the consequences are so severe, having a skilled murder defense attorney in Dallas is essential when fighting these charges.

Legal Defenses to Murder Charges

Being charged with murder does not automatically mean you will be convicted. There are many legal defenses that can be raised depending on the facts of your case. Some of the most common defenses include:

Self-Defense or Defense of Others

Texas law allows individuals to use deadly force if they reasonably believe it is necessary to protect themselves or someone else from imminent danger of death or serious bodily harm.

Lack of Intent

Murder charges typically require proof of intent. If the prosecution cannot prove you intended to cause death or serious harm, the charges may be reduced or dismissed.

Mistaken Identity

Eyewitness misidentification is a common cause of wrongful convictions. A strong defense may involve challenging the credibility of witnesses or the reliability of identification procedures.

Insufficient Evidence

The prosecution carries the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If the evidence is weak, circumstantial, or improperly obtained, it may not meet the standard required for conviction.

Constitutional Violations

If law enforcement violated your constitutional rights—for example, through an unlawful search, improper interrogation, or failure to read your Miranda rights—key evidence may be suppressed.

At Law Office of Patrick J. McLain, PLLC, we analyze every detail of the case to determine which defense strategies are most effective.

Murder FAQs

What should I do if I am accused of murder in Dallas?

Do not speak to the police or investigators without an attorney present. Contact a Dallas murder lawyer immediately to protect your rights and begin building your defense.

Can I be charged with murder if I didn’t pull the trigger?

Yes. Under the “felony murder rule,” you may be charged with murder if someone dies during the commission of a felony in which you were involved, even if you were not the one who directly caused the death.

What is the difference between murder and capital murder in Texas?

Murder generally involves the intentional killing of another person. Capital murder includes specific aggravating factors, such as killing multiple victims or a police officer, and carries harsher penalties including the death penalty.

Can murder charges be reduced to manslaughter?

Yes. Depending on the circumstances and the available evidence, an attorney may negotiate with prosecutors to reduce murder charges to manslaughter, which carries less severe penalties.

Why should I hire a Dallas murder defense lawyer?

Murder cases are complex and the penalties are extreme. Our team can investigate your case, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, negotiate for reduced charges, and fight for your freedom in court.

Speak With a Dallas Murder Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one is facing murder charges in Dallas, the situation is too serious to face alone. You need an experienced, dedicated, and aggressive defense attorney who knows how to navigate Texas courts and fight for your future.

At Law Office of Patrick J. McLain, PLLC, we have extensive experience defending clients against murder and violent crime charges in Dallas, TX. We are committed to protecting your rights and providing the strongest possible defense.

Contact us at (214) 238-9392 for a confidential consultation with seasoned murder defense lawyers in Dallas who are ready to listen and stand by your side.