Justin Wilson
Senior Attorney
If you’re facing manslaughter or homicide charges in Dallas, you need an aggressive, personalized defense. Texas takes violent crimes seriously. A conviction can lead to decades or life in prison. It can also permanently damage your reputation, immigration status, career, and personal relationships.
Texas law distinguishes between different types of homicide offenses, each with its own definitions and penalties under the Texas Penal Code. Whether you’re accused of criminally negligent homicide or first-degree murder, the prosecution will aggressively pursue a conviction. You need a defense team that’s just as committed to protecting your rights.
At My Dallas Criminal Lawyer, we know that every story has more than one side. Our attorneys fight to ensure your voice is heard, your rights are protected, and your case is handled carefully.
If you or a loved one is under investigation or has been arrested with one of these serious crimes, you need a Dallas manslaughter and homicide defense attorney immediately. Call 214-764-5535. Early legal intervention can make a major difference—and we’re ready to step up immediately.
Why You Need a Homicide Defense Attorney in Dallas
Homicide cases are among the most serious and complex charges under Texas law. Whether the allegation is murder, manslaughter, or criminally negligent homicide, the consequences of a conviction are life-altering. If you’re facing these charges in Dallas, you need an experienced, aggressive defense attorney to represent your case.
The Texas Penal Code outlines several different homicide offenses, each with distinct legal standards and consequences. Each of these statutes has specific elements the prosecution must prove, ranging from intent and recklessness to negligence. The classification of your charge depends heavily on the facts of the case. Your attorney may have room to argue for a reduced charge or complete dismissal.
Convictions for homicide-related offenses carry harsh punishments:
- Capital murder: Life without parole or the death penalty
- Murder: Five to 99 years or life in prison (first-degree felony)
- Manslaughter: Two to 20 years in prison (second-degree felony)
- Criminally negligent homicide: 180 days to two years in a state jail (state jail felony)
A skilled defense attorney from My Dallas Criminal Lawyer can begin protecting your rights immediately by:
- Challenging a grand jury indictment before formal charges are filed
- Working to reduce charges from murder to manslaughter or negligent homicide
- Securing expert testimony to challenge cause of death or intent
- Preserving evidence and identifying key witnesses early in the process
The sooner you involve our team, the more options you may have to fight the charges or minimize their impact. Call 214-764-5535 to start building your defense today.
Why Choose My Dallas Criminal Lawyer to Handle My Case?
When your future is on the line, you need a skilled legal team devoted to fighting for you. My Dallas Criminal Lawyer brings decades of combined trial experience to every case we handle. Our attorneys know how the district attorney’s office builds its case—and how to counter those strategies in court.
Our roots in the Dallas legal community give our clients a valuable advantage. We know how grand juries in Dallas County operate, and we’re familiar with the judges, court staff, and prosecutors handling homicide and manslaughter cases. This local knowledge helps us anticipate challenges and negotiate for better outcomes than you’d get on your own or with a busy public defender.
From the moment we take your case, we begin building an aggressive defense. We conduct our own investigation, which often includes reviewing autopsy reports, analyzing forensic evidence, and reconstructing the scene if needed. We consult with expert witnesses such as pathologists, mental health professionals, and forensic analysts to challenge the prosecution’s narrative. We also work to suppress statements or evidence obtained in violation of your Constitutional rights.
Throughout the process, we keep you informed and involved. Most importantly, we offer strategic, honest legal advice based on your goals, whether that’s fighting for a dismissal, negotiating a plea, or taking your case to trial. My Dallas Criminal Lawyer believes everyone deserves a strong defense—reach out today to find out how we can help you.
Types of Manslaughter and Homicide Cases We Handle
Homicide charges in Texas cover a range of conduct and intent levels, from deliberate acts to tragic accidents. We defend clients against:
Murder
Murder involves intentionally or knowingly causing the death of another person. It also includes the felony murder rule, which applies when someone dies during the commission of a separate felony, even if death wasn’t the original intent.
Capital Murder
Capital murder is the most serious homicide charge in Texas. It carries the possibility of life without parole or the death penalty. This charge typically applies to killings involving specific victims (peace officers, children) or circumstances (multiple victims, murder-for-hire, murder during aggravated robbery or sexual assault).
Manslaughter
Manslaughter involves recklessly causing another person’s death. It does not require intent to kill, only a disregard for risk. These charges are common in cases involving fatal car accidents, accidental shootings, or mishandled firearms.
Criminally Negligent Homicide
This charge involves failing to recognize a substantial and unjustifiable risk that leads to someone’s death. It’s frequently charged when someone’s conduct doesn’t rise to recklessness but still leads to fatal consequences. It can be considered a lesser-included offense of manslaughter, depending on the facts.
Vehicular Homicide
Texas does not have a standalone statute for vehicular homicide, but fatal crashes are often prosecuted as:
- Manslaughter (if reckless behavior like speeding or texting is involved)
- Criminally negligent homicide (if the driver failed to act with care)
- Intoxication manslaughter (if the driver was impaired under Tex. Penal Code § 49.08)
Self-Defense and Justifiable Homicide
Some homicides are legally justified. We evaluate every case to determine if the use of force was lawful under the Texas self-defense, defense of others, or defense of property statutes.
No matter the charge, My Dallas Criminal Lawyer provides a thorough, fact-driven defense grounded in Texas law.
Talk to an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney Today
Homicide and manslaughter charges are serious. You need experienced counsel who can get to work immediately and protect your rights.
My Dallas Criminal Lawyer doesn’t wait for the prosecution to set the narrative. Whether you’re accused of reckless conduct or intentional harm, our team is ready to build a defense based on the facts, the law, and your goals. Call 214-764-5535 or contact us online to speak with a Dallas homicide defense lawyer today.
Last Updated: June 10, 2025
Dallas County
June 2025
Dismissed
Second-Degree Felony Aggravated Assault with Deadly Weapon
Denton County
June 2025
Felony No-Billed & Motion to Revoke Withdrawn
State Jail Felony Injury to Elderly & Motion to Revoke Misdemeanor Probation
Dallas County
May 2025
Deferred Adjudication
Second-Degree Felony Aggravated Assault w/Deadly Weapon Reduced to Class A Misdemeanor Discharge of Firearm in Certain Municipalities
Denton County
May 2025
Dismissed
Class A Misdemeanor Assault Family Violence
Collin County
February 2025
Dismissed
Third-Degree Felony Failure to Register as Sex Offender
Collin County
December 2024
Both of Client’s Cases Dismissed
Third-Degree Felony Assault Family Violence Strangulation & Third-Degree Felony Continuous Violence Against the Family
Collin County
December 2024
Dismissed
Class A Misdemeanor Violation of Bond Conditions
Dallas County
November 2024
Case Refused, No Further Prosecution
Class A Misdemeanor Assault Family Violence
What Our Clients Say
Andres Moreles
It is with immense pleasure that I offer my strongest recommendation for Justin and his team. Their contribution to my situation was nothing short of transformative. Instead of simply meeting expectations, they significantly exceeded them, leaving a lasting positive impact on my life.
Basel Shaded
Justin was super professional and a very clear communicator through my whole process. Pricing is amazing. He got the job done extremely quickly and efficiently. I highly encourage anyone to hire Justin for all your criminal defense needs.
Taylor Harrington
I had the pleasure of working with Justin and his colleagues. Their expertise was immediately apparent; they possess a remarkable ability to not only present the most favorable potential outcomes but also to thoroughly analyze and articulate the potential challenges and risks involved. This balanced approach was incredibly valuable in helping us make informed decisions. Their professionalism was consistently exemplary, and I found them both to be highly personable and collaborative. I wholeheartedly recommend their services to anyone seeking insightful and reliable guidance.
Ashton Smith
Was facing 5 plus years on a serious criminal charge. Justin not only got the charge reduced but he got the whole CASE ENTIRELY DISMISSED. Not to mention everything was pointing my way to being guilty of some sort and Justin was able to get both cases thrown out.
Justin Harris was also immaculate! These two are a powerful duo and they both will fight for your freedom no matter the circumstances.
Lastly Justin was great at communicating! Shooting him a text before calling and he normally answers. Also, Justin aligned my court dates up with my off days so I could keep my job.
Shishir Roy
I am incredibly grateful for Justin Wilson’s exceptional work as my criminal defense attorney. Facing false allegations was daunting, but Justin’s expertise and dedication led to dismissals for both of my cases, clearing my name. He also skillfully secured an early expungement before the statute of limitations expired, giving me a fresh start.
From the start, Justin listened attentively, explained every step, and was always available to address questions or provide updates. His strategic approach, attention to detail, and relentless advocacy were outstanding. Unlike some attorneys, Justin prioritizes his clients’ best interests over profit and can be trusted with complex legal matters.
For anyone seeking a skilled, compassionate, and trustworthy criminal defense attorney, I wholeheartedly recommend Justin Wilson. Thank you, Justin, for everything!
Krystal V.
Had the best experience with this firm, and felt like I was in good hands the entire time. They were incredibly professional, caring, and made sure I was informed and confident throughout the entire process. Special thanks to Justin Harris, who went above and beyond to make sure my case was handled with care and diligence.
Kait T.
I cannot recommend Justin Harris at My Dallas Criminal Lawyer highly enough. From our first consultation, Justin demonstrated a deep understanding of criminal law and a real commitment to protecting my rights. He was clear, honest, and always kept me informed throughout the process.
What stood out most was his strategic approach and calm demeanor. He explained all of my options clearly, never sugarcoated things, and ultimately helped me get a result that exceeded my expectations. It’s clear he has strong relationships in the Dallas legal community and knows how to navigate the system effectively.
If you’re facing criminal charges and need a lawyer who is sharp, responsive, and truly on your side, Justin Harris is the attorney to call. Worth every penny.
Frank S.
Justin helped me with a criminal matter and I have to say I had a wonderful experience with something that was very uncomfortable. Justin was responsive and clearly explained and helped me understand my options. In the end he was able to resolve the problem in my favor due to procedural issues he discovered and leveraged. I hope to never have to use his services again, but I know who I will call if I do need help!
Dave
After speaking with several criminal defense lawyers about my case I finally had spoken with Justin Wilson and was blown away. This gentleman is extremely knowledgeable and takes time to listen not missing anything. You can tell just from the sound of someone’s voice as to whether or not they are genuine and I could tell immediately after speaking with him that he truly cares about his clients. He took time going over my case with me and constantly kept me updated during the process. I would recommend him to anyone seeking out a lawyer for criminal defense and did I mention he is well connected in the court system. I hope that I will never need another lawyer, but if I do, Justin Wilson is my only choice. Thank you so much for the dismissal and the expunction of my case. You truly are amazing at what you do and I am forever grateful. Thanks.
Alexis (DWI Client's Friend)
I had a friend in a DWI situation that used Justin Barrett Wilson as their attorney. High quality work from a hard working, experienced attorney that you can trust. If anyone finds themselves in trouble in north Texas, I 10/10 recommend Justin’s services to everyone!
