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© 2023 by Thornton Criminal Defense, PLLC.
Atascosa Office:
216 N Bryant St
Pleasanton, Texas 78064
FORMER CHIEF PROSECUTOR
PERSONALIZED ATTENTION TO YOUR CASE
NO HOURLY RATES, ALWAYS A FLAT FEE
CLIENT CENTERED APPROACH TO YOUR CASE
BOARD CERTIFIED IN CRIMINAL LAW
OVER A DECADE OF EXPERIENCE IN CRIMINAL LAW
WHY HIRE THORNTON CRIMINAL DEFENSE?
Attorney Brad Thornton is a highly experienced and Board-Certified criminal defense lawyer. With his background as a former Chief Prosecutor, he has a unique understanding of the criminal justice system and is able to provide comprehensive and effective representation to his clients. He is also deeply committed to ensuring that all individuals receive fair treatment in court, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Brad Thornton is dedicated to helping his clients achieve the best possible outcome for their case, whether it is in San Antonio or elsewhere in South Texas. He recognizes the stress and anxiety that can come with being accused of a crime, and approaches his clients with compassion while keeping them informed at every step of the process. His knowledge and experience make him a strong advocate for his clients.
Criminally Negligent Homicide
Texas Penal Code § 19.05 - CRIM NEGLIGENT HOMICIDE
Criminally Negligent Homicide Criminal Defense Attorney in San Antonio, Texas
Criminally negligent homicide is a criminal offense in the state of Texas, defined in Texas Penal Code section 19.05. It involves causing the death of another person through criminal negligence, which is a type of behavior that falls short of reckless or intentional wrongdoing.
In Texas, there are four main types of homicide: murder, manslaughter, capital murder, and criminally negligent homicide. Murder is the intentional and unlawful killing of another person. Manslaughter is the unlawful killing of another person without intent, but with recklessness. Capital murder is a murder that involves certain aggravating factors like that it occurred during the commission of another felony or there are multiple victims. Criminally negligent homicide is the causing of another person's death through criminal negligence.
Criminal negligence differs from civil negligence in that it involves a higher level of disregard for the safety of others. To prove criminal negligence, it must be shown that the defendant had a duty to act with care towards the victim and that their actions (or lack thereof) constituted a gross deviation from the standard of care that a reasonable person would have exercised in the same situation. Civil negligence, on the other hand, involves a failure to use reasonable care that results in harm to another person but does not necessarily rise to the level of recklessness or disregard for safety.
Criminal law is the body of law that deals with the punishment of individuals who have been accused of committing crimes. In contrast, civil law is the body of law that deals with disputes between individuals or organizations, typically involving monetary damages. While criminal cases are brought by the government against individuals accused of crimes, civil cases are brought by individuals or organizations seeking monetary or other forms of relief from other individuals or organizations.
Car Crashes
Criminally Negligent Homicide is a criminal offense in Texas that involves causing the death of another person through criminal negligence. One context in which this offense may occur is in the context of car crashes.
If a person is driving in a reckless or negligent manner and causes a crash that results in the death of another person, they may be charged with Criminally Negligent Homicide. This can include actions such as distracted driving, speeding, or failing to follow traffic laws. In order to prove that the defendant was criminally negligent, the prosecutor must show that the defendant had a duty to act with care towards the victim and that their actions (or lack thereof) constituted a gross deviation from the standard of care that a reasonable person would have exercised in the same situation.
If you have been charged with Criminally Negligent Homicide in the context of a car crash in Texas, it's important to seek out experienced legal representation. Attorney Brad Thornton is a highly qualified and skilled criminal defense attorney who has a deep understanding of the criminal justice system. He is a former chief prosecutor and leader on the vehicular crimes team for the district attorney's office, and has training in crash and accident reconstruction.
With his extensive experience and knowledge, Brad Thornton is well-equipped to defend his clients against criminal charges related to car crashes. If you have been charged with Criminally Negligent Homicide in the context of a car crash, don't hesitate to reach out to Brad Thornton, one of the best criminally negligent homicide attorneys in San Antonio for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
Criminal Penalties for Criminally Negligent Homicide in Texas
Criminally Negligent Homicide is a criminal offense in the state of Texas, defined in Texas Penal Code section 19.05. It involves causing the death of another person through criminal negligence, which is a type of reckless behavior that falls short of intentional wrongdoing. If you are facing criminal charges for Criminally Negligent Homicide in Texas, you may have defenses available to you that can help you avoid a conviction.
One possible defense to Criminally Negligent Homicide is that you did not act with criminal negligence. In order to prove criminal negligence, the prosecutor must show that you had a duty to act with care towards the victim and that your actions (or lack thereof) constituted a gross deviation from the standard of care that a reasonable person would have exercised in the same situation. If you can show that you were acting with due care and caution at the time of the incident, you may be able to argue that you were not criminally negligent.
Another defense is that you did not cause the victim's death. In order to be found guilty of Criminally Negligent Homicide, the prosecutor must show that your actions were a direct and proximate cause of the victim's death. If you can show that the victim's death was caused by an intervening factor, such as a medical emergency or the actions of a third party, you may be able to argue that you were not responsible for the victim's death.
Additionally, you may be able to argue that you acted in self-defense or defense of others. If you can show that you were protecting yourself or someone else from imminent harm, you may be able to claim that your actions were justified and therefore not criminal.
If you are facing criminal charges for Criminally Negligent Homicide in Texas, it's important to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney. An attorney can help you evaluate your options and build a strong defense tothe charges against you.
Punishment Ranges
Level of Offense
Potential Incarceration
Potential Fine
First-degree Felony
Second-degree Felony
Third-degree Felony
State Jail Felony
Class A Misdemeanor
Class B Misdemeanor
2 - 10 years in prison
180 days - 2 years in jail
Up to 1 year in jail
Up to 180 days in jail
2 - 20 years in prison
5 - 99 years in prison
Up to $10,000
Up to $10,000
Up to $10,000
Up to $10,000
Up to $4,000
Up to $2,000
Criminal Penalties for Criminally Negligent Homicide in Texas
In Texas, Criminally Negligent Homicide is classified as a state jail felony. This means that the punishment for a conviction may include a term of imprisonment in a state jail facility for any term of not more than two years or less than 180 days, as well as a fine of up to $10,000. The specific penalty will depend on the circumstances of the case and the defendant's criminal history.
It's worth noting that a person can be charged with both Criminally Negligent Homicide and another crime, such as intoxication manslaughter, if the death was caused by the defendant's actions while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. In this case, the defendant may face additional penalties for the intoxication offense in addition to those for Criminally Negligent Homicide.
In addition to the criminal penalties, a conviction for Criminally Negligent Homicide can also have collateral consequences, which are consequences that extend beyond the punishment ordered by the court. These can include the loss of professional licenses, difficulty finding employment, and damage to personal and professional relationships. It's important for individuals facing criminal charges to be aware of the potential collateral consequences and to discuss them with an attorney.
Attorney Brad Thornton
If you have been charged with Criminally Negligent Homicide in San Antonio, Texas, it's important to take the charges seriously and to seek out the best legal representation available. One option to consider is board-certified criminal defense attorney Brad Thornton; a top criminally negligent homicide defense attorney in San Antonio.
Brad Thornton is a highly experienced and skilled criminal defense attorney who deeply understands the criminal justice system. He is a former chief prosecutor, which means that he has extensive experience on the other side of the courtroom and knows how prosecutors think and build their cases. This experience gives him a unique advantage in defending his clients against criminal charges.
In addition to his experience, Brad Thornton is also board-certified in criminal law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. This certification is a mark of excellence that is only awarded to attorneys who have demonstrated a high level of competence and experience in their practice area. When you choose a board-certified attorney like Brad Thornton, you can have confidence that you are working with a highly qualified legal professional who is capable of handling your case.
If you have been charged with Criminally Negligent Homicide in San Antonio, it's important to act quickly and seek out experienced legal representation. Brad Thornton is available for a free consultation at 210-439-5627 to discuss your case and help you understand your options. Don't hesitate to reach out to him and start exploring your legal options.
FORMER PROSECUTOR
San Antonio Criminal Defense Attorney Brad Thornton has spent years in court rooms fighting for justice. As a prosecutor, Brad was a leader on cases ranging from marijuana to murder from arrest to appeal. Who better to fight for your rights than someone who knows the "other side" and has tried the toughest of cases out there. Put his experience and knowledge to work for you.
David I.
Seguin, Texas
Brad was great from the moment he looked at my case. Despite his busy schedule, he made himself easily available, walked us through every detail with care and professionalism, and worked out a great deal with the prosecutor that was much better than any outcome we could have imagined. I don’t plan on needing his assistance again, but if I’m ever unfortunate enough to find myself in another legal bind, Brad will be my first call.
Brian F.
San Antonio, Texas
I have had the opportunity to know Brad both personally and professionally for a while now. As a fellow attorney, I am consistently impressed by his passion and innovative approach to legal issues. He is exceptionally intelligent and is always willing to go above and beyond for his clients. When I refer clients to Brad, I have full confidence that they will receive top-quality representation.
Elaine B.
San Antonio, Texas
Brad is an amazing attorney, and I highly recommend him! He has deep knowledge and understanding how to navigate the law to support his clients. He has a way with people, and truly has his focus on client care and supporting them, during a time that’s usually stressful for clients. He was able to support in getting my case dismissed in less than 2 months and was attentive and personable during the whole process. You have a choice when deciding who’s going to represent you, and to have an attorney that genuinely cares for his clients should be an expectation anyone should set. Brad will meet that expectation 110%!
Kevin E.
Jourdanton, Texas
[Brad] made the process very easy for me, handling everything within a month, with a motion to dismiss all cases against me. I only had to attend court once! The portal he uses to make sure you are aware of everything going on in your case is awesome, I didn’t even have to worry everything got downloaded to the portal with email notifications. I would never use another attorney to represent me, he is the best at what he does.