Being charged with attempted murder in Texas is life-changing. A conviction could mean years behind bars, massive fines, and a permanent criminal record. Prosecutors aggressively pursue these cases, often pushing for the harshest penalties. But being accused does not mean you are guilty. The law requires proof beyond a reasonable doubt, and there are many ways to challenge the prosecution’s claims. At Daniel Collins Law, we build strong defenses to protect your rights, your freedom, and your future. The sooner we start, the better we can fight for you.
Understanding Attempted Murder in Texas
Attempted murder is a serious felony in Texas. Unlike a completed homicide, this charge applies when someone takes a direct step toward killing another person but does not succeed. Prosecutors must prove both intent to kill and an overt act that moves beyond preparation. Without these elements, the charge may not hold up in court.
Key points about attempted murder:
- Intent matters – The prosecution must show that the accused intended to kill, not just harm.
- An overt act is required – Words or thoughts alone do not count. There must be an actual step toward committing the crime.
- It differs from aggravated assault – Aggravated assault involves serious bodily injury but does not always require intent to kill.
- Common examples include:
- Shooting at someone and missing
- Stabbing someone in a life-threatening area but failing to kill them
- Hiring a hitman who does not follow through
Every attempted murder charge is different, and the details of the case matter.
Penalties for Attempted Murder in Texas
Attempted murder is classified as a second-degree felony in Texas. Since an attempted crime is punished one level lower than the completed offense, attempted murder carries severe consequences, including:
- Prison time – 2 to 20 years in a Texas state prison
- Fines – Up to $10,000
- Permanent criminal record – Impacting employment, housing, and firearm rights
While attempted murder itself remains a second-degree felony, certain factors can lead to harsher penalties, such as:
- Use of a deadly weapon – This can lead to sentence enhancements, making parole eligibility more difficult.
- Attempting to kill a law enforcement officer, judge, or public servant – This may result in maximum sentencing.
A conviction for attempted murder can have life-altering consequences. Fighting the charges early gives you the best chance at protecting your future.
Possible Defenses Against Attempted Murder Charges
An attempted murder charge does not guarantee a conviction. Prosecutors must prove intent to kill and a direct action toward committing the crime. Depending on the circumstances, several defense strategies may apply:
- Lack of intent – If there was no intent to kill, the charge may not hold. Injuring someone is not the same as attempting to murder them.
- No overt act – Thinking about a crime or making threats is not enough. There must be clear evidence of a direct step toward committing murder.
- Self-defense – If you acted to protect yourself or someone else, Texas law allows for self-defense claims.
- False accusations – Witnesses can be mistaken, or someone may falsely accuse you out of anger or revenge.
- Insufficient evidence – If the prosecution’s case is weak, charges could be reduced or dismissed.
A strong defense can make all the difference in the outcome of your case.
Why You Need a Strong Defense
Attempted murder charges come with aggressive prosecution and the possibility of decades in prison. The state will use every available resource to convict, which means you need a strong defense to challenge their case. Prosecutors often rely on circumstantial evidence, unreliable witnesses, or exaggerated claims to build their argument. Without a proper defense, you risk severe penalties that could change your life forever.
At Daniel Collins Law, we examine every detail of the case to uncover weaknesses in the prosecution’s arguments. Whether it’s questioning witness credibility, disputing intent, or proving a lack of evidence, we work to build the strongest possible defense. A conviction isn’t inevitable, and the right legal strategy can make a significant difference in the outcome. Fighting back against these charges requires thorough preparation, aggressive advocacy, and an understanding of how to challenge the state’s case at every turn.
Contact an Experienced Fort Worth Attempted Murder Attorney
An attempted murder charge can put your future at risk, but a strong defense can change the outcome. At Daniel Collins Law, we fight to protect your rights and your freedom. Contact us today for a confidential consultation—your defense starts now.