San Antonio DWI Manslaughter Attorney

Experienced Defense Against DWI Manslaughter Charges in Texas

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 DWI 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 Intoxicated Manslaughter in Texas

Manslaughter DWI, also known as intoxicated 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. 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, manslaughter DWI is a second-degree felony, carrying harsh penalties upon conviction. These penalties include:

Imprisonment: A conviction for manslaughter DWI 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 DWI 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 Manslaughter DWI 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.

Consequences of a DWI Manslaughter Conviction

The ramifications of a DWI manslaughter conviction extend far beyond the immediate legal penalties. Understanding these consequences is essential for anyone facing such charges:

Long-term Imprisonment: A felony conviction may lead to a lengthy prison sentence, impacting your life and the lives of your loved ones for years to come.
Criminal Record: A conviction for DWI manslaughter will result in a permanent criminal record, which can affect future employment opportunities, housing applications, and other aspects of daily life.
Financial Hardship: In addition to fines, the costs associated with legal fees, potential civil liability, and the long-term impact on employment can lead to significant financial difficulties.
Social Stigma: The social consequences of being charged or convicted of a serious crime can affect personal relationships and reputation, causing emotional distress and isolation.

Contact Our San Antonio Manslaughter DWI Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one is facing charges of DWI manslaughter in San Antonio, it's essential to act quickly and secure strong legal representation. At the Law Offices of George A. Scharmen, we are dedicated to protecting your rights and advocating for the best possible outcome.

We understand the complexities of manslaughter DWI cases and will work tirelessly to build a strategic defense on your behalf. Time is of the essence in building a solid defense, so don't hesitate to contact our San Antonio manslaughter DWI attorney for skilled and experienced legal assistance.

Contact The Law Offices of George A. Scharmen today to get started on your defense with our San Antonio manslaughter DWI attorney. Call now - (210) 405-9730

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