Principal Office
15110 Dallas Pkwy #400
Dallas, TX 75248
(972) 528-0478
15110 Dallas Pkwy #400
Dallas, TX 75248
(972) 528-0478
Years Defending Texans
Cases Dismissed
Criminal Cases Handled
Counties Served Across Texas
Available 24/7 | Serving All of Texas
Facing manslaughter or homicide charges in Dallas is one of the most terrifying experiences imaginable. These serious felony charges carry life-altering consequences that can destroy your freedom, career, and relationships. At the Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy, we understand the fear and uncertainty you’re experiencing right now.
Our Dallas criminal defense team has successfully defended clients against the most serious charges for over 35 years. We’ve handled thousands of criminal cases and have secured dismissals, reductions, and not guilty verdicts in complex homicide matters.
Don’t speak to police without an attorney present. Call (972) 528-0116 immediately for a confidential consultation about your case.
Texas law recognizes several types of homicide charges, each carrying different penalties and legal requirements. Understanding these distinctions is vital for building an effective defense strategy.
Voluntary manslaughter occurs when someone intentionally causes another person’s death but acts in the “sudden passion” arising from adequate cause. This typically involves situations where someone acts in the heat of the moment during a confrontation.
Involuntary manslaughter encompasses both:
The key difference lies in the defendant’s mental state and level of awareness regarding the risk their actions created.
Under Texas Penal Code Section 19.05, criminally negligent homicide occurs when someone causes another person’s death by criminal negligence. This means the person should have been aware of a substantial and unjustifiable risk but failed to perceive it.
Intoxication manslaughter is covered under Texas Penal Code Section 49.08. This charge applies when someone causes another person’s death while operating a vehicle, aircraft, or watercraft while intoxicated by alcohol or drugs.
The consequences of manslaughter convictions in Texas are severe and can permanently impact every aspect of your life.
| Charge Type | Classification | Prison Sentence | Maximum Fine |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reckless Manslaughter | Second-degree felony | 2-20 years | $10,000 |
| Criminally Negligent Homicide | State jail felony | 180 days – 2 years | $10,000 |
| Intoxication Manslaughter | Second-degree felony | 2-20 years | $10,000 |
| Voluntary Manslaughter | Second-degree felony | 2-20 years | $10,000 |
A manslaughter conviction creates permanent consequences:
A conviction carries consequences that extend far beyond the immediate penalties imposed by the court.
Our firm has extensive experience defending against all forms of homicide charges in Dallas County.
These cases often arise from:
🛡️ Defense Strategy: We examine whether adequate provocation existed and if the defendant acted in sudden passion rather than with premeditated intent.
Common scenarios include:
These charges typically involve:
⚖️ Legal Standard: Prosecutors must prove the defendant should have been aware of the substantial risk their conduct created.
Our intoxication manslaughter defense experience includes cases involving:
Every manslaughter case is unique, requiring a customized defense strategy based on the specific facts and circumstances.
Texas Penal Code Section 9.32 allows the use of deadly force when reasonably believing it’s immediately necessary to protect yourself or others from imminent death or serious bodily injury.
Key elements we examine:
In many cases, we can demonstrate:
Our team thoroughly investigates potential violations including:
💡 Defense Strategy: We examine evidence handling procedures and investigate whether law enforcement followed proper protocols during the investigation.
For criminally negligent homicide charges, we focus on:
When facing the most serious charges in the criminal justice system, you need attorneys with proven experience and unwavering dedication.
Unlike general practice attorneys, we exclusively handle criminal defense cases. This focused approach means we stay current on developments in criminal law, evidence rules, and defense strategies.
Our team has practiced in Dallas County courts for over three decades. We know the local judges, prosecutors, and court procedures, helping us:
Our firm has handled thousands of criminal cases with favorable outcomes including:
We don’t use cookie-cutter defenses. Every case receives:
As Richard McConathy states: “I take on a case, I consider that person a part of my extended family. We’re gonna throw everything out there every bit of our heart soul and effort to win that case just like we were being charged ourselves.”
Understanding the legal process helps reduce anxiety and allows you to make informed decisions about your defense.
Most manslaughter cases begin with:
⚡ Critical Point: Exercise your right to remain silent and request an attorney immediately.
The booking process at Lew Sterrett typically includes:
Parking for families: Limited street parking available; most visitors use paid lots near the Trinity River or take DART public transportation.
Your first court appearance typically occurs within 48-72 hours at:
Frank Crowley Courts Building
What happens at arraignment:
Dallas County Bond Schedules:
Manslaughter cases are typically heard in one of these felony courts:
| Court | Floor | Location | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|
| 282nd District Court | 5th Floor | Frank Crowley Bldg | (214) 653-5852 |
| 283rd District Court | 6th Floor | Frank Crowley Bldg | (214) 653-5862 |
| 291st District Court | 7th Floor | Frank Crowley Bldg | (214) 653-5872 |
Court hours: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM, Monday-Friday
Dress code: Business attire required; no shorts, sandals, or revealing clothing
This phase is often where cases are won or lost:
Our investigation includes:
Critical motions we file:
If your case proceeds to trial, we prepare extensively:
Being charged with manslaughter in Dallas requires immediate action. Every day you wait gives prosecutors more time to build their case against you.
The Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy has the experience, resources, and dedication needed to protect your rights and fight for your freedom.
📞 Call (972) 528-0116 now for a confidential consultation.
Don’t let a tragic situation destroy the rest of your life. Contact our Dallas manslaughter defense team today to begin building your defense strategy.
Dallas County District Attorney’s Office
Dallas County Public Defender’s Office
Dallas County Clerk – Criminal Division
Dallas County approved bail bond companies operate near:
Typical bail bond fee: 10% of total bond amount (non-refundable)
DART Rail Access:
Major highways to Frank Crowley Courts:
Our firm regularly works with qualified local experts:
Murder requires proof of intent to cause death or serious bodily injury, while manslaughter involves reckless conduct or criminal negligence. Murder carries more severe penalties, including potential life imprisonment.
Yes. If the accident resulted from reckless driving or criminal negligence, you could face manslaughter charges. If alcohol or drugs were involved, intoxication manslaughter charges are likely.
Intent to cause death isn’t required for manslaughter convictions. The prosecution only needs to prove you acted recklessly or with criminal negligence that resulted in someone’s death.
Self-defense can be a valid defense if you reasonably believed deadly force was immediately necessary to protect yourself or others. However, the force used must be proportional to the threat faced.
Intoxication manslaughter is a second-degree felony punishable by 2-20 years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines. Additional penalties include license suspension and potential civil liability.
Whether you're facing a felony charge or fighting a traffic ticket, every case deserves serious attention. Get an experienced defense team in your corner now.
