San Antonio Intoxication Manslaughter Attorney

Expert Defense Against intoxication Manslaughter in san antonio 

When facing charges of DWI manslaughter in Texas, it's crucial to have an experienced and skilled legal team by your side. The Law Offices of George A. Scharmen are dedicated to providing aggressive and comprehensive legal representation for individuals charged with Intoxication Manslaughter. We understand the complexities of these cases and are dedicated to assisting our clients in navigating the legal system to obtain the best possible result.

Call The Law Offices of George A. Scharmen today at (210) 405-9730 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our DWI manslaughter lawyer in San Antonio.

Understanding Intoxication Manslaughter in Texas

Intoxication manslaughter, is a serious criminal offense that transpires when an individual operates a motor vehicle while being under the influence of drugs or alcohol, which results in the death of another person or persons. This offense combines the elements of DWI (driving while intoxicated) and manslaughter, making it a grave legal matter that can result in severe consequences.

To prove manslaughter DWI, the prosecution must establish that the defendant was operating a vehicle in a public place while intoxicated and that their intoxication directly caused the death of another person. The penalties for manslaughter in DWI are substantial and can have a lasting impact on various elements of your life.

Severe Penalties for DWI Manslaughter Convictions in Texas

In Texas, Intoxication Manslaughter is a second-degree felony, carrying harsh penalties upon conviction. These penalties include:

• Imprisonment: A conviction for Intoxication Manslaughter can lead to a prison sentence that ranges from 2 to 20 years. The specific duration of the sentence depends on various factors, such as the circumstances of the case and any prior criminal history.
• Fines: Besides imprisonment, the court may impose fines of up to $10,000. These fines can add to the financial burden of the legal process.
• License Suspension: Your driver's license may be suspended significantly upon conviction. This can severely impact your ability to commute and carry out daily activities.
• Probation: In some cases, probation may be granted instead of or in addition to imprisonment. Probation terms typically include mandatory alcohol education programs, regular drug testing, and compliance with all court orders.
• Criminal Record: A conviction for manslaughter DWI will end with a permanent criminal record, affecting employment opportunities, housing options, and other aspects of your life.

Our goal is to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome for your case. We understand the complexities of manslaughter DWI laws in San Antonio and will use our knowledge and experience to develop a strong defense strategy tailored to your specific circumstances.

Exploring Alternative Sentencing Options

In some cases, it may be possible to explore alternative sentencing options. While Intoxication Manslaughter is a serious charge, certain circumstances may warrant leniency. Options might include:

• Deferred Adjudication: In rare cases, the court may allow for deferred adjudication, enabling the defendant to complete probation and other requirements to potentially have the charges dismissed.
• Substance Abuse Treatment Programs: If substance abuse issues are a factor, participating in treatment programs may be viewed favorably by the court and can potentially reduce penalties.
• Restitution Agreements: Negotiating restitution with the victim's family can sometimes result in reduced charges or penalties, depending on the circumstances.

Working closely with a knowledgeable attorney in San Antonio can help identify potential alternative sentencing options and advocate for your best interests during negotiations.

Call The Law Offices of George A. Scharmen today at (210) 405-9730 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with a DWI manslaughter lawyer near you.

Defenses Against Intoxication Manslaughtr Charges

Some common defenses against manslaughter DWI charges could include:

• Challenging Evidence: We can meticulously review the evidence against you, including the results of any field sobriety tests, blood alcohol concentration (BAC) tests, and other evidence. Inaccuracies or mishandling of evidence can be used to weaken the prosecution's case.
• Procedural Errors: Law enforcement must follow specific procedures during the arrest and investigation process. Any deviations from these procedures can lead to evidence being suppressed or the case being dismissed.
• Proving Lack of Causation: To prove manslaughter DWI, the prosecution must establish a direct causal link between your intoxication and the death. We can analyze the circumstances surrounding the incident to determine if there are any alternative explanations for the accident.
• Miranda Rights Violation: If your Miranda rights were not read to you during the arrest, any statements you made may be inadmissible in court.
• Demonstrating No Reckless Behavior: If the defense can show that the driver was not acting recklessly or with disregard for safety at the time of the incident, this can be a strong argument against the charges.
• Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions can impair a person's driving abilities and might provide a valid defense. Demonstrating that a sudden medical issue contributed to the accident can mitigate liability.
• Witness Testimony: Gathering credible witness testimony that supports your account of events can help build a more robust defense. Eyewitnesses may provide insights that challenge the prosecution's narrative.

Do you need guidance? Connect with our San Antonio DWI manslaughter attorney. Call (210) 405-9730 or reach out online to schedule your free legal consultation.