Facing intoxication manslaughter charges in San Antonio, TX, is an incredibly serious matter that can have life-altering consequences. Given the severity of the charges, individuals may face significant penalties. The best way to defend yourself and protect your freedom is to reach out to an experienced San Antonio criminal defense lawyer.

Our lawyers understand the law’s intricacies and the emotional strain accompanying these accusations. We are dedicated to protecting your rights and working tirelessly to pursue the best possible outcome for your case. If you or a loved one is facing intoxication manslaughter charges, we’re here for you.

Contact Barton & Associates Attorneys at Law at (210) 500 0000 to speak with a San Antonio intoxication manslaughter lawyer.

How Barton & Associates Attorneys at Law Can Help If You’re Arrested For Intoxication Manslaughter

If you’re arrested for intoxication manslaughter in San Antonio, Texas, you’re facing serious consequences. The best thing you can do is to work with a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. Here’s how we can help you:

• Comprehensive Investigation: We will conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances of your case, gathering evidence, reviewing police reports, and interviewing witnesses.
• Negotiations: We are equipped to negotiate with prosecutors on your behalf, aiming for reduced charges or alternative sentencing options to mitigate the potentially harsh consequences of a conviction.
• Emotional Support and Guidance: We understand the emotional toll that facing intoxication manslaughter charges can have on you and your family. We provide compassionate support throughout the legal process, ensuring you feel informed and supported at every step.

For help with an intoxication manslaughter offense or any other criminal charge, contact Barton & Associates Attorneys at Law to speak with a San Antonio manslaughter attorney.

Overview of Intoxication Manslaughter in Texas

In Texas, intoxication manslaughter is defined as the act of unintentionally causing the death of another person while operating a vehicle, watercraft, aircraft, or any amusement park ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This serious offense covers a range of scenarios, including situations where the intoxicated driver kills a passenger in their own vehicle or any other individual involved in the incident.

In Texas, it is the prosecution’s responsibility to establish, beyond a reasonable doubt, that the defendant was intoxicated at the time of the incident and that this state of intoxication was the direct cause of the victim’s death.

What Are the Penalties For Intoxication Manslaughter in San Antonio, Texas?

In San Antonio, the penalties for intoxication manslaughter are severe and come with significant legal ramifications. Intoxication manslaughter is classified as a second-degree felony, carrying 2 to 20 years in prison and fines of up to $10,000.

Enhanced Penalties for Specific Victims

If the victim of intoxication manslaughter is a firefighter, peace officer, judge, or emergency medical personnel, the charges can be elevated to a first-degree felony. Penalties range from 5 to 99 years or life in prison.

In some cases, prosecutors may argue that the vehicle used in the crime qualifies as a deadly weapon, leading to delayed parole eligibility for the defendant.

Stacking Punishments

In cases involving multiple victims, such as two fatalities, each charge can lead to consecutive sentences, significantly increasing the overall prison time. The same rule applies if a defendant is charged with both intoxication manslaughter and intoxication assault arising from the same incident. Whether the sentences will run concurrently (at the same time) or consecutively will be up to the judge.

Given the severity of the penalties, it’s important to reach out to a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible if you’re facing these charges.

What Defenses Can Be Raised If I’m Arrested For Intoxication Manslaughter?

If you are arrested for intoxication manslaughter, there are several potential defenses that can be raised to challenge the charges against you. Common defenses include:

Not Intoxicated

One of the primary defenses against intoxication manslaughter is demonstrating that you were not intoxicated at the time of the incident. This can involve presenting evidence such as breathalyzer or blood test results, witness testimonies, or video footage that showcases your behavior and physical condition, countering the assertion that you were impaired while operating a vehicle or vessel.

Not the Cause of Death

Another effective defense is proving that your actions did not directly cause the victim’s death. This may involve presenting evidence or expert testimony that suggests other factors contributed to the fatality, such as pre-existing medical conditions or actions taken by the victim themselves.

Not Driving

If there is a question about whether you were the one operating the vehicle at the time of the incident, you can assert a defense based on lack of control. For example, if you were not behind the wheel at the time of the accident, and evidence supports that claim, it would serve as a strong defense against intoxication manslaughter charges.

Plea Deal

In some cases, negotiating a plea deal may be a viable option. If the evidence against you is strong, your attorney may work with the prosecution to secure a plea agreement that results in lesser charges or reduced penalties. A plea deal can provide an opportunity to avoid the severe consequences associated with a conviction for intoxication manslaughter.

Every case is unique, and it is essential to have an experienced attorney analyze the specific circumstances and potential defenses.

​Schedule a Consultation With Our San Antonio Intoxication Manslaughter Lawyers

If you find yourself facing charges of intoxication manslaughter, navigating the legal system can be incredibly complex and overwhelming. The potential penalties and lifelong consequences of a conviction are serious, which is why having an experienced attorney by your side is essential.

A skilled defense attorney will thoroughly review the details of your case, explore all possible defenses, and work tirelessly to protect your rights. If you need help, we’re always here for you. Contact Barton & Associates Attorneys at Law to speak with a San Antonio intoxication manslaughter lawyer.