Compassionate and Strategic Homicide Defense Representation
When you or a loved one is facing homicide charges, your world can come crashing down. Your mind is almost certainly racing with questions, fears, and uncertainty about the future. In this moment of crisis, you need more than just legal representation – you need an advocate who understands the gravity of your situation and is prepared to fight tirelessly to protect your rights and freedom.
At Lance Kennedy Law, we recognize that this may be the most challenging and frightening time of your life. The criminal justice system can be overwhelming, especially when the stakes are this high. After all, you’re not just facing potential prison time. You’re fighting for your very future and the lives of those who depend on you.
Our team understands the complexities of Texas law and the specific challenges you’ll face in Travis County courts. More importantly, we know you’re a human being who deserves compassionate and aggressive representation.
Why choose our firm for your homicide defense? We offer:
Prosecutorial experience. Our founding attorney, Lance Kennedy, is a former U.S. and Texas criminal prosecutor who brings invaluable knowledge from both sides of the courtroom to the table. This helps us anticipate how prosecutors build their cases, giving our team a strategic advantage when constructing your defense.
Dedication to criminal defense. We focus our practice on defending those accused of serious crimes. We are intimately familiar with the nuances of Texas homicide law and the local Austin court system.
Personalized attention. Unlike large firms where you might feel like just another case number, we provide individualized attention to each client. We work directly with you throughout your case so that you’re informed and involved every step of the way.
Aggressive advocacy. We have gained a reputation for our aggressive defense strategies. Our attorneys are not afraid to challenge evidence, confront witnesses, or take your case to trial if necessary.
Compassionate approach. Facing homicide charges is emotionally taxing. While we are formidable litigators, we also provide compassionate, empathetic counsel to our clients. We understand you’re going through a difficult time and will try to ease your fears and worries as much as possible.
Proven results. While past success doesn’t guarantee future outcomes, we have a strong record of achieving favorable results for our clients in serious criminal cases.
Don’t let another moment pass without getting the help you need. We are available 24/7, so schedule a free, confidential consultation with our Austin homicide defense lawyers by calling (737) 324-7540 or contacting us online. Se habla español.
Understanding Homicide Charges in Texas
Texas law recognizes several different types of homicide offenses, each carrying its own set of potential consequences. Broadly, Texas defines homicide as someone who “intentionally, knowingly, recklessly, or with criminal negligence causes the death of an individual.”
The statute also lists the following acts as criminal homicide:
Murder. A person commits murder if they intentionally or knowingly cause the death of someone else or cause death while committing a felony.
Capital murder. The most serious homicide charge, capital murder, involves specific aggravating factors like killing a police officer or multiple victims.
Manslaughter. Someone commits manslaughter if they recklessly cause the death of another person.
Criminally negligent homicide. This refers to when someone causes another person’s death through criminal negligence.
These are the most common scenarios that can lead to homicide charges in Texas:
Domestic disputes escalating. Domestic disputes that escalate to violence.
Bar fights or altercations. Bar fights or other altercations that result in fatal injuries.
Drug-related incidents. Drug-related events, including disputes over illegal substances or related crimes.
Vehicular incidents. Vehicular accidents involving DWI or reckless driving.
Cases of mistaken self-defense. When individuals act under the impression they are protecting themselves but charges arise due to misunderstandings regarding lawful self-defense.
Potential Consequences of a Homicide Conviction in Texas
The aftermath of a homicide conviction can be devastating and affect every aspect of your life. The specific charges you are facing will determine the potential punishments.
Any homicide conviction comes with significant jail or prison sentences. A criminally negligent homicide conviction comes with up to two years of jail time, with a 180-day minimum sentence. A manslaughter conviction carries a maximum prison sentence of 20 years, with a minimum two-year sentence. A murder conviction can lead to up to 99 years or life in prison, with a minimum five-year sentence. A capital murder conviction can result in the death penalty or life in prison without parole. All homicide convictions also carry fines of up to $10,000 in addition to incarceration.
The consequences of a homicide conviction also extend well beyond a jail or prison sentence for individuals in Austin:
Employment barriers. Many employers are hesitant to hire individuals with violent felony convictions.
Difficulty securing housing. Finding housing can be challenging, as many landlords conduct background checks.
Impact on relationships. The strain of incarceration and the stigma of a conviction can damage family ties and friendships.
Loss of voting rights. In Texas, you cannot vote while incarcerated or on parole for a felony conviction.
Loss of firearm ownership. Federal law prohibits convicted felons from possessing firearms.
Professional license issues. Many professional licensing boards may revoke or deny licenses to those with felony convictions.
Beyond the initial sentencing, additional ramifications from a homicide case can affect daily life in Austin and throughout Texas. Losing your right to hold a professional license or to own a firearm may have long-term effects on your career options and personal security. These broader impacts underscore why working with a homicide attorney is so important should you find yourself facing charges in the region. Judges in Travis County, which includes the Austin Municipal Court and Travis County District Court, strictly enforce sentencing guidelines, emphasizing the seriousness of these offenses.
How an Austin Homicide Defense Lawyer in Austin Can Help
The long-lasting effects of a homicide conviction underscore the importance of mounting a strong defense from the very beginning of your case. An experienced attorney, like those on our team at Lance Kennedy Law, can make all the difference when navigating the complex landscape of Travis County courts.
What to Look for When Choosing a Homicide Attorney in Austin
Selecting the right legal representation is an important decision that can significantly impact the outcome of your homicide case. A homicide attorney in Austin should offer more than basic legal knowledge—they should possess courtroom experience, a strong understanding of local court procedures, and the ability to navigate complex evidence. It is also valuable to work with attorneys familiar with Travis County District Court, since local procedures and relationships can affect many stages of a criminal case, from plea bargaining to jury selection.
When evaluating a homicide lawyer in Austin, consider their history handling serious felony cases in Texas courts, as well as their background working with law enforcement agencies and forensic experts. Lawyers who have both prosecution and defense experience are often able to recognize weaknesses in the government's case and develop effective strategies on behalf of their clients. The ability to explain the Texas Penal Code and the specific processes used in local courts is another critical factor when making your choice.
Key factors to keep in mind when hiring a homicide attorney in Austin include:
Extensive trial experience. Attorneys who have taken multiple serious cases to jury verdict in Travis County or federal court can leverage proven strategies in high-stakes litigation.
Knowledge of local laws and policy. A lawyer who understands Austin and Travis County legal circles will be prepared for each phase, from evidence review to jury voir dire.
Connections with forensic and investigative experts. Local resources can play a pivotal role in gathering evidence and countering the prosecution's theories.
As you consider your options, make sure your homicide attorney communicates openly, explains possible outcomes under Texas law, and is prepared to stand up for your rights every step of the way.
Our defense lawyers can perform several crucial actions to protect your rights:
Evaluate your case. We can examine police reports and witness statements, review physical evidence and forensic reports, identify potential weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and assess the strength of possible defenses. This comprehensive evaluation forms the foundation of your defense strategy.
Gather and analyze evidence. A strong defense often hinges on uncovering evidence the prosecution may have overlooked or misinterpreted. We can conduct independent investigations, consult with forensic experts, interview witnesses, analyze surveillance footage or other digital evidence, and seek exculpatory evidence that supports your innocence.
Negotiate with prosecutors. In some cases, negotiating with prosecutors can lead to reduced charges or more favorable plea agreements. Lance’s experience as a former prosecutor gives us unique insight into this process. We can work to present mitigating factors that may influence the prosecution’s stance, challenge weak evidence or procedural mistakes, and negotiate for reduced charges or alternative sentencing options when appropriate.
Develop defense strategies. Based on the specific facts of your case, we can work closely with you to develop a defense strategy that best fits your situation and goals. This may involve challenging the admissibility of certain evidence, questioning the credibility of the prosecution’s witnesses, presenting alternative theories of the crime, and/or demonstrating lack of intent or other mitigating factors.
I appreciate his compassion and proactive strategy that got my son the best possible outcome.
“Lance took the time to talk to me explained the process and scenarios, he answered all my questions I felt completely confident he was the one we needed to represent my son.”
- Jenny B.
I highly recommend Lance for your legal needs.
“Lance Kennedy Law provided excellent service when I needed legal representation for a family member. Their communication was prompt, keeping me up to date on our case.”
- Sandy S.
All in all, I’d give him a 10/10! Great job!
“He was very professional, answered all my questions in a timely matter. Even on the same day”
The right defense strategy can make a crucial difference in the outcome of your homicide case. We can carefully evaluate the circumstances surrounding your charges to determine the most effective approach. We are prepared to explore every possible avenue to build the strongest defense for your situation.
Here are some common homicide defense strategies we may consider:
Self-defense. Texas recognizes the right to use force, including deadly force, to protect yourself in certain situations. We can examine factors like the threat level you perceived, whether you had a duty to retreat, and how appropriate your response was to the threat.
Defense of others. Defending another person from imminent danger can serve as a viable defense.
Lack of intent. For certain homicide charges, the prosecution must prove that you intended to cause death or serious bodily harm. If your actions were accidental or you lacked the required mental state, we may be able to use this as grounds for reducing or dismissing charges.
Mistaken identity. In some cases, eyewitness testimony or circumstantial evidence may have led to a wrongful accusation. We can scrutinize the evidence to verify that authorities aren’t falsely accusing you due to misidentification.
Challenging evidence or witnesses. A crucial part of any defense is critically examining the prosecution’s evidence and witnesses. This may involve questioning the reliability of eyewitness testimony, challenging the validity of forensic evidence, exposing inconsistencies in witness statements, and/or demonstrating potential bias in prosecution witnesses.
In certain circumstances, other defense strategies might include:
Insanity defense
Coercion or duress
Alibi
Statute of limitations (for lesser included offenses)
What Is the Legal Process for Homicide in Texas?
The criminal justice process can be overwhelming. When you choose our team at Lance Kennedy Law to represent you, you can count on our attorneys to be by your side and fight for your rights from start to finish.
While each case is unique, the legal process for homicide in Texas generally involves the following stages:
Arrest and booking. Police will take you into custody, photograph and fingerprint you, and record your personal information.
Initial appearance. Within 48 hours of arrest, you’ll appear before a magistrate who will inform you of the charges and set bail if applicable.
Grand jury indictment. For felony charges like homicide, a grand jury must review the evidence and decide whether probable cause justifies proceeding with charges.
Arraignment. The court will formally present you with the charges, and you will enter a plea (usually “not guilty” at this stage).
Pre-trial motions. We may file various motions, such as requests to suppress evidence or dismiss the charges.
Plea bargaining. Negotiations may occur between our team and the prosecution. While not always applicable in homicide cases, it’s possible in some situations.
Trial. If the prosecutor won’t negotiate a fair plea agreement, your case will proceed to trial. This involves jury selection, opening statements, presentation of evidence, witness testimony, closing arguments, and jury deliberation.
Sentencing. If the court convicts you, you’ll attend a separate sentencing hearing to determine your punishment.
Appeals. If procedural errors or judicial misconduct affected the verdict, we can file an appeals request and challenge the outcome to have your conviction overturned.
When Does Homicide or Murder Become a Federal Charge?
While most homicide cases fall under the jurisdiction of Texas state courts, certain circumstances can elevate a case to the federal level. Federal charges often carry more severe penalties and involve different procedural rules.
Homicide may become a federal charge when:
The alleged crime occurs on federal property (such as a military base or national park)
The victim is a federal employee or official killed in the line of duty
The alleged act involves crossing state lines
The alleged crime is connected to other federal offenses (such as drug trafficking or organized crime)
The alleged crime involves civil rights violations that result in death
The alleged crime involves alleged domestic or international terrorism
If your case does become a federal matter, you will need an attorney who is well-versed in both state and federal law. Lance Kennedy’s experience as a former federal prosecutor gives our team valuable insight into these complex, high-stakes cases.
Your future may depend on the actions you take right now. Call (737) 324-7540 or contact us online to schedule a free case evaluation today.
Yes. Texas law recognizes different degrees of homicide, including charges that don’t require intent to kill. These include manslaughter or criminally negligent homicide.
Bail is possible in some homicide cases, but it depends on various factors, including the specific charges, your criminal history, and community ties. We can advocate for reasonable bail terms.
Generally, you cannot expunge homicide convictions in Texas. This underlines the importance of mounting a strong defense from the start.
Costs vary based on the complexity of the case and other factors. Our firm offers free initial consultations to discuss your case and potential fees. We can work with your budget and offer flexible payment plans.
We understand that facing criminal charges can be overwhelming and stressful. As dedicated federal criminal defense attorney with years of experience, I am committed to providing personalized legal counsel for your defense. My approach is tailored to meet your unique needs, ensuring that you have an ally to help get your life back.
1
Get a Free Case Review
Let’s discuss your case, your goals, and what strategies are right for you.
2
Resolve Your Case
I will lead you every step of the way. Together, we will fight for a dismissal.
3
Get Your Life Back
Work to get the best results possible so you can get your life back.
Choosing the right criminal defense attorney in Austin is an important decision. At Lance Kennedy Law, our criminal defense attorneys understand the weight of this choice and the trust you place in your legal representative. Our promise to you goes beyond just words, it’s a tangible commitment to excellence, transparency, and relentless advocacy as we navigate your case together.
