All Americans accused of a crime have the right to an attorney and the right to present a criminal defense. A good criminal defense should be tailored to the person accused, their situations and any charges they are facing. For example, a person may be looking for a plea negotiation or could be looking to be acquitted completely of the crime they are accused of.
A South Texas man has officially been charged after a car accident tragically caused the death of one and injury to others. Authorities in Mercedes, east of McAllen, say the accused was driving a cargo truck that struck an SUV. The driver of the SUV was killed and another woman was hurt, along with the critically injured children who remain hospitalized.
According to public record, the man has previously been charged and convicted of DWI, more than one time. After an investigation, the prosecution is now seeking a more serious charge in this accident, in which intoxication is thought to be a factor. The man has been charged with intoxication manslaughter.
Manslaughter is different than a murder charge, because the prosecution does not need to prove intent. Manslaughter is a charge that will often be brought when the death of another is an accident, a byproduct of another decision. Carelessness and intoxication can cause fatal accidents.
However, manslaughter is still a very serious charge and should be handled carefully and with attention. Manslaughter may be a lesser crime than murder, but it still comes with significant penalties, including incarceration. Those accused of manslaughter or other crimes in Texas will want to ensure that they take all the necessary measures to present the strongest case possible, in order to avoid the harsh consequences a guilty verdict could bring.