Denton Criminal Lawyer

Capital Punishment

The principle of “an eye for an eye” is thousands of years old. But despite its age, the thinking that underlies this concept of punishment prominently figures in the modern criminal justice system. Texas has acquired something of a reputation for its comparatively frequent use of capital punishment. Capital punishment, more frequently referred to as “the death penalty,” is intended to be reserved for persons who are convicted of the most egregious crimes. Lethal injection is the method of execution used to carry out the sentence currently in the state, though in earlier years electrocution, hanging, and death by firing squad were some of the other alternatives.

If you are faced with a trial for a capital offense, it is urgent that you seek the counsel and representation of a skilled and experienced attorney. The stakes could not be any higher, and it may be possible for your advocate to negotiate a lesser penalty through plea bargaining. Contact the Denton criminal defense lawyers of Alexander & Associates at 972-420-6560 to discuss the matter with an attorney who is committed to protecting your legal rights.

Being Convicted “As a Party”

Capital punishment is directed most clearly at those persons who commit murder under a variety of different circumstances which are considered to be especially reprehensible. But under the Texas Penal Code, an individual may be charged with a capital crime “as a party” to the act, even if he or she did not carry out the killing. Things that may qualify one “as a party” include:

• Promoting and/or coercing another to commit the crime
• Aiding to facilitate the commission of the act
• Being part of a conspiracy to commit a felony during the act of which any member of the conspiracy commits a capital murder
• Actively soliciting for the perpetration of the crime

Contact Us

Wrongful convictions or excessively harsh sentencing could cost you your life. Let us help you to defend it. Contact the Denton criminal defense lawyers of Alexander & Associates at 972-420-6560 to discuss your case with an experienced legal professional.