Blog Post
the Consequences of a Murder Conviction
3/21/2026
A murder conviction carries life-altering penalties that extend far beyond incarceration.
Legal Penalties Under Texas Law
Capital Murder: Life imprisonment without parole or the death penalty
First-Degree Murder: 5 to 99 years (or life) in prison and fines up to $10,000
Second-Degree Murder: 2 to 20 years in prison and fines up to $10,000
Reducing the level of the charge—or avoiding a capital designation—is often a primary defense objective.
Social and Personal Consequences
Even an accusation can severely damage your:
Employment
Relationships
Reputation
Standing in the community
A conviction may permanently affect where you live, work, and whether you can maintain custody or visitation rights.
Loss of Civil Rights
A felony murder conviction can result in the loss of:
The right to vote (during incarceration and supervision)
The right to possess firearms
The ability to serve on a jury
These consequences can be long-lasting and deeply isolating.
Financial Impact
Murder charges often bring overwhelming financial strain due to:
Legal defense costs
Loss of employment
Long-term incarceration
Barriers to future housing and job opportunities
The ripple effects can impact families for years.
Arlington Criminal Attorneys
3901 Arlington Highlands Blvd, Suite 200
Arlington, TX 76018