Intoxication Manslaughter Lawyer Austin, TX
Seek Aggressive Legal Representation From Our DWI Defense Team
Although drunk driving is associated with harsh penalties, a DWI involving the death of another individual can lead to more severe consequences. Since the dangers of drunk driving are well known and documented, Texas prosecutors and the victim’s family always seek to punish defendants charged with intoxication manslaughter—to the fullest extent of the law. Intoxication manslaughter is considered a felony DWI in Texas.
If you have been arrested for intoxication manslaughter, Smith & Vinson Law Firm can protect your rights and future throughout the legal process. Our Austin intoxication manslaughter defense attorneys can investigate your case, collect evidence, and build an effective defense strategy to either get your charges reduced or your case dismissed altogether.
Texas Intoxication Manslaughter Laws
If a person knowingly becomes inebriated from alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both, then operates a motor vehicle and kills another individual, he/she has committed intoxication manslaughter. On the other hand, if you unknowingly consumed a controlled substance and became impaired, you are not at fault for causing death. While manslaughter is not as serious as murder, the former is still punishable by harsh penalties. The specific penalties are based on the circumstances of the case.
Texas law allows for “stacking” of punishments for both intoxication manslaughter and intoxication assault. This means that if there was more than one victim, multiple counts can be charged and the punishments can be added together to run consecutively. This is very different than most felony punishments in Texas that run concurrently, or together.
Understanding Intoxication Manslaughter Charges in TX
In Texas, it is illegal for a person to operate a motor vehicle (car, aircraft, watercraft, or amusement park ride) while intoxicated. Under state law, intoxication means having a blood alcohol concentration of .08 or more, or when the amount of alcohol or drugs in a person’s system impairs the use of their mental or physical faculties. If the driver, because they are under the influence, accidentally or mistakenly causes the death of another, they could be charged with intoxication manslaughter.
Texas Intoxication Manslaughter Penalties
Intoxication manslaughter is a second-degree felony in Texas, which carries the following penalties:
- Up to 20 years in prison
- Up to $10,000 in fines
- Up to 2 years driver’s license suspension
If the intoxicated driver or operator caused an accident that took the life of a firefighter or emergency medical personnel while carrying out official duties, they could be charged with a first-degree felony.
Additionally, if more than one person is killed or injured in a car accident, a defendant could face separate intoxication manslaughter or intoxication assault charges for each victim.
Conviction penalties include:
- Up to 99 years in prison
- Up to $10,000 in fines
Retain the Legal Services of Our Austin Intoxication Manslaughter Lawyer
Having a skilled Austin intoxication manslaughter defense attorney relentlessly fighting for you could make a substantial difference in the outcome of your case. At Smith & Vinson Law Firm, we understand the seriousness of an intoxication manslaughter charge, which is why we take the time to listen to your side of the story and craft a compelling defense for you. Our Austin lawyers will challenge the prosecutor’s case and work toward getting charges reduced or dropped, minimizing the effects of a conviction on your life.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with our Austin intoxication manslaughter attorneys. Call us at (512) 359-3743.
Our Client Reviews
Earning Our Reputation by Protecting Yours
-
Smith and Vinson are absolutely incredible! They go above and beyond to help their clients and have a track record of success in getting cases dismissed. Their aggressive approach and unwavering dedication make them stand out from the rest.- Linda W.
-
What sets this firm apart is their unwavering dedication to their clients. They listen attentively, provide clear guidance, and approach every case with the utmost diligence. Their attention to detail is truly impressive, and they leave no stone unturned.- Former Client
-
When in battle you need people by your side who are fierce enough to face the opposition with you. Brad and Jarod far exceeded my expectations with their passion for winning and attention to detail.- Nikki C.
-
After the Jury was selected, the first witness was called to the stand, and Brad and Jarrod imploded the State's case. Moments later, the case was dismissed. I couldn't be any more thankful for Smith & Vinson.- Former Client
A Proven Track Record
Check Out Our Recent Case Results
-
Rejected Pre-Indictment Aggravated Assault Strangulation/Impeding Airway Investigation
-
No Charges Filed Sex Assault Investigation
Our client had an affair with a married woman. When her husband found out, she accused our client of rape. She called the police, who began an investigation into the matter. Our client did the smart thing and called our office immediately.
-
Case Dismissed Juvenile Sex Assault
Our client, a young girl, was accused of sexually assaulting her young female cousin. Our client was a good student and was involved in a number of youth and school activities. She had a bright future ahead of her and she and her parents were understandably terrified that an accusation like this could ruin her life forever.
-
Case Dismissed/Charges Reduced DWI With Child Passenger - Felony
-
Case Dismissed Aggravated Assault w/ Deadly Weapon
Our client, a veteran with no criminal history, allegedly got into an altercation at a gas station after an argument about politics that started verbal turned physical. The client drove away before the other parties called police. Police caught up to him and arrested him, not only for the alleged altercation, but on suspicion of Driving While Intoxicated.