What is the name of your state?What is the name of your state? What is the name of your state? TX I need some help understanding the law. On May 25, 2004, after one-week trail my 24-year-old son was convicted of first-degree murder with sudden passion. A deadly weapon (pocket knife) was used in the altercation. He was sentenced to 10 years in prison. Here are my questions, 1. In reading law websites sudden passion should be involuntary manslaughter, it was self-defense (4 to 1). 2. Is there still a law on the books in Texas that state if you receive 15 years or less, you can be out on bail till your appeal is heard? We have given all of our money to a lawyer. If anyone knows of a lawyer who could help us out for free or time payments, that would be great. Please HELP!!!!!!