There are several incidents in life that make people shudder with fear. An accidental arrest for homicide is one of them. If you know you’re innocent, the thought of potentially going to jail for a crime you didn’t commit is horrifying.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through three immediate measures you should take if you have been wrongfully arrested for homicide. If you have any questions, call us for a consultation.
1. Find the Right Lawyer
Under Texas law, homicide falls into four key categories: capital murder, murder, manslaughter, and criminally negligent homicide. The charges for each of these crimes are very serious; you will face between 5 and 99 years in prison. Moreover, you will be required to pay heavy fines and face additional penalties.
Remember, you are innocent until the state proves that you are guilty. That is your constitutional right under the law, so the burden of proof is NOT on YOU to prove that you’re innocent, but on the STATE to prove that you committed the crime. With an aggressive lawyer on your side, you can mount an aggressive defense with the goal of avoiding a guilty verdict. Find a lawyer who has worked on homicide cases in the past. They’ll build a strong defense and offer the protection you need.
2. Do Your Own Research
There’s a lot at stake when you are facing prison time, and you will need to be actively involved in the process. You should discuss possible defense strategies with your lawyer instead of taking the backseat.
Do your own research, actively listen to your lawyer, and stay alert. Make note of any evidence from the day of the incident that you think could be relevant, and discuss all possible angles with your lawyer. The more proactive you are, the better.
Recommended Read: If I’m Arrested For DWI And Someone Dies, What Are The Charges?
3. Rely on Your Loved Ones
Navigating the legal proceedings isn’t easy. You’ll need a lot of support from your loved ones. Make sure you spend ample time with them and gain the reassurance, support, comfort, and validation you need.
This can be a vulnerable time for people. As you surround yourself with close friends and family, you’ll feel less isolated and more hopeful. Feel free to speak with people who have been in your shoes. You can join an online forum or social media group to seek support.
We often gain the most strength when we speak with people who have been in our position. Not only will you gain a lot of great insight, but you’ll also receive the support you’re looking for.
Were you wrongfully arrested for homicide? Attorney JL Carpenter has an excellent track record defending people accused of murder, manslaughter, and other serious crimes. She has a reputation for building aggressive defenses for her clients.
Click here to contact her today. JL also works on DWI, drug possession, family violence, domestic violence, and a wide range of other cases in the Greater Houston area, including Friendswood, Clear Lake, and League City.