Homicide & Murder Defense Lawyer in Houston, Texas
A murder charge is the most serious criminal accusation a person can face. The stakes — your life, your freedom, your family — could not be higher. At Roque Law Firm, Sara Roque provides relentless, thorough criminal defense in Houston homicide cases at every level: from criminally negligent homicide to capital murder. If you or someone you love is charged with homicide in Texas, you need an attorney who will fight for every possible defense from day one.
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Homicide Charges in Texas — Levels and Penalties
| Charge | Classification | Sentence Range |
|---|---|---|
| Criminally Negligent Homicide | State Jail Felony | 180 days – 2 years |
| Manslaughter | 2nd Degree Felony | 2 – 20 years |
| Intoxication Manslaughter | 2nd Degree Felony | 2 – 20 years |
| Murder (intentional) | 1st Degree Felony | 5 – 99 years or Life |
| Capital Murder | Capital Felony | Life without parole or Death |
What to Do If You or a Family Member Is Arrested for Homicide
- Say only: “I want a lawyer. I am not answering questions.”
- Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately
- If foreign national: request consular notification
- Write down everything you remember
- Preserve any evidence in your possession
- Answer ANY police questions
- Give a “voluntary” statement
- Agree to a polygraph test
- Discuss the case with anyone but your lawyer
- Post anything online
Sara Roque’s Approach to Homicide Defense
Every murder case is built on evidence — and evidence can be challenged, suppressed, or reinterpreted. Sara Roque and her legal team examine every aspect of the prosecution’s case:
- Witness credibility: Eyewitness testimony is notoriously unreliable. Sara rigorously cross-examines every witness.
- Forensic evidence: DNA, ballistics, and trace evidence are all subject to laboratory error and improper handling. Sara works with expert witnesses to challenge forensic conclusions.
- Self-defense (Castle Doctrine & Stand Your Ground): Texas has strong self-defense laws. If you acted to protect yourself or others from imminent harm, that may be a complete defense.
- Mental state: Homicide charges require specific mental states (intentional, knowing, reckless, negligent). Challenging what the prosecution can prove about your intent is a key defense strategy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between murder and manslaughter in Texas?
Murder requires intentionally or knowingly causing death, or intending to cause serious bodily injury and committing an act that causes death. Manslaughter involves recklessly causing death without specific intent to kill. The distinction significantly affects penalties and defense strategies.
Can I claim self-defense in a murder case in Texas?
Yes. Texas has broad self-defense laws including the Castle Doctrine (home) and the right to use deadly force if you reasonably believed it was necessary to prevent death or serious bodily injury. Building a proper self-defense case requires skilled legal strategy from the very beginning.
How quickly should I hire a murder defense attorney?
Immediately. The first 24-72 hours after an arrest are critical — evidence is being collected, witnesses are being interviewed, and statements are being taken. The earlier an attorney is involved, the better the outcome. Call Sara Roque now.
Charged with Homicide or Murder in Houston? Call Sara Roque Now.
Strictly confidential. Available 24/7 in English and Spanish. This is the most important call you will make.
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