Experienced Defense Attorney in Manslaughter Charges
A manslaughter charge often arises from a tragic event that prosecutors believe resulted from reckless conduct rather than an intentional act.
While it is a different offense than murder, a manslaughter allegation is still a serious felony that can carry significant penalties and lasting consequences. Understanding how prosecutors believe the death occurred is often one of the first steps in evaluating the case.
At Odefey, Witte, Wall, & Villafranca, LLP, attorney Jordan G. Fries represents clients charged with manslaughter throughout Victoria, Port Lavaca, and surrounding South Texas communities. As a former felony prosecutor, he understands how investigators analyze fatal incidents and the evidence prosecutors rely upon when deciding whether reckless conduct rises to the level of a criminal offense.
Manslaughter cases involve a wide range of circumstances, but they generally center on allegations that reckless behavior caused another person’s death.
Common situations include:
One of the most important questions in a manslaughter case is what prosecutors mean by reckless. A serious accident does not automatically become a criminal offense simply because someone lost their life. Investigators must look beyond the outcome and determine whether the person’s actions rose to the level required under Texas law.
A conviction for manslaughter can have life-changing consequences.
Depending on the facts of the case, a conviction may result in:
Beyond the criminal penalties, a conviction can continue affecting a person’s personal and professional life long after the case has concluded.
Manslaughter cases often depend on careful analysis of how the incident occurred rather than simply the fact that a death occurred.
Jordan reviews accident reconstruction reports, witness statements, surveillance footage, medical records, forensic evidence, and electronic data to understand exactly what happened. His experience as a former prosecutor allows him to recognize how the State is likely to present the evidence while identifying questions that deserve closer examination before accepting the prosecution’s version of events.
Manslaughter cases require thoughtful analysis and a clear understanding of both the facts and the law.
Jordan Fries has handled serious felony cases from both sides of the courtroom and understands how prosecutors evaluate evidence in fatal incident investigations. He provides clients with practical guidance, honest communication, and a careful assessment of the issues that may influence the direction of the case.
