Understanding How Murder Charges Actually Work in Texas
When someone is accused of causing another person’s death, the legal distinctions between charges matter—often more than people realize. In Texas, murder and manslaughter are not interchangeable labels. Each charge is defined by a specific mental state, carries different punishment ranges, and requires a different defense approach.
At MC Criminal Law, our FAQ Series is designed to provide clear, straightforward explanations of complex criminal law issues. Our attorneys handle serious felony cases every day and know that understanding how Texas law classifies offenses is essential when the stakes are this high.
Today’s FAQ addresses a question we hear often from clients and families:
FAQ: What is the primary difference between Murder and Manslaughter in Texas?
The punishment range is drastically different. A Murder conviction has a punishment range of 5-99 years or life in prison with no chance for probation. A manslaughter conviction has a punishment range of 2-20 years in prison, and a person may ask the jury for probation if they do not have prior felony convictions. Even with felony convictions, a probation is possible on manslaughter through plea negotiations, while on a murder it is statutorily barred.
MC Tip
Texas is one of the few states that allows the accused to decide if a jury or judge will access punishment. However, certain options are only available in specific circumstances. At MC Criminal Law, every client has an office visit with their attorney to view the evidence in their case, understand all of the options, and discuss strategy for the best possible outcome. When it comes to serious charges, you need serious attorneys who stay trial-ready. Call us today if you or a loved one need help with criminal issues.