How Do You Fight a Murder Charge in Texas?

 Posted on January 21, 2026 in Criminal Defense

Facing a murder charge in Texas is overwhelming and frightening. You may feel confused about what happens next. Fighting a murder charge starts with understanding what the state must prove and how defenses are built.

In 2025, the FBI released national crime data showing that murder and nonnegligent manslaughter rates declined significantly compared to prior years. Even with that trend, murder charges remain among the most aggressively prosecuted cases in Texas.

As of 2026, Texas courts continue to treat murder cases with intense scrutiny, and early decisions often shape how the case unfolds. If you or a loved one are accused, speaking with a Hood County, TX murder defense lawyer can help you protect your rights and begin preparing a defense.

What Does Texas Law Consider Murder?

Under Texas Penal Code § 19.02, murder is defined in several ways based on a person’s actions and intent. It most commonly involves intentionally or knowingly causing another person’s death, such as during a violent confrontation.

Murder can also be charged when someone intends to cause serious bodily injury and commits a clearly dangerous act that results in death, even if causing death was not the original goal.

What Must Prosecutors Prove in a Texas Murder Case?

To convict someone of murder, prosecutors must prove every required element beyond a reasonable doubt. This is the highest standard used in criminal cases.

In most murder cases, the state must show:

• A person died.

• The accused caused the death.

• The act was intentional, knowing, or clearly dangerous.

If the prosecution cannot prove even one of these elements, the charge may not hold up in court.

How Does the Type of Murder Charge Affect the Defense?

Not all murder charges are the same. Texas recognizes different offenses, and each one affects defense strategy.

For example, capital murder under Texas Penal Code § 19.03 involves specific circumstances, such as multiple victims or the victim’s role. Other cases may involve lesser homicide charges with different mental state requirements. A defense often begins by examining whether the charge fits the evidence.

Can Self-Defense Be Used to Fight a Murder Charge in Texas?

Yes, self-defense may apply in some murder cases. Texas law allows a person to use force, including deadly force, if they reasonably believe it is immediately necessary to protect against another person’s unlawful force.

Self-defense claims are carefully reviewed. Courts look at whether there was an immediate threat and whether the response was reasonable based on the situation at the time.

How Important Is Evidence in a Texas Murder Defense?

Evidence plays a major role in murder cases. These cases often rely on physical evidence, witness accounts, and expert analysis.

A defense may focus on issues such as:

• Conflicting or unreliable witness statements

• Problems with forensic testing or handling of evidence

• Lack of intent

• Alternative explanations for what happened

• Violations of constitutional rights

Every piece of evidence must be reviewed closely, which is why having an experienced attorney is important for your case.

What Role Do Police Procedures Play in Murder Cases?

Police must follow strict legal rules during investigations. Mistakes during searches, interrogations, or evidence collection can affect what evidence is allowed in court.

If constitutional rights were violated, certain evidence may be challenged or excluded. These issues are often addressed before trial.

Can Statements or Confessions Be Challenged?

Statements made to police are frequently challenged in murder cases. Courts review whether statements were voluntary and whether proper warnings were given.

Texas Code of Criminal Procedure Article 38.22 sets rules for how statements must be obtained. If those rules were not followed, the prosecution’s case may be weakened.

When Should You Contact a Murder Defense Lawyer?

You should reach out to a lawyer as soon as a murder investigation begins or charges are filed. Early involvement allows your defense to be shaped before key decisions are made and before statements or evidence lock in a particular narrative.

An attorney can step in as a buffer between you and investigators, guide what information is shared, and make sure the case moves forward in a way that protects your position from the start.

Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Hood County, TX Murder Defense Attorney

If you are facing a murder charge, experienced local representation matters. At The Law Offices of Rob Christian, we understand how these cases are handled locally. Attorney Christian is a former Hood County District Attorney with 20 years of experience as a prosecutor and has established working relationships with Hood County courts.

Call 682-936-4003 to speak with a Hood County, TX murder defense lawyer about your situation. Help is available 24/7.