There is no offense considered more severe under the Florida Statutes or prosecuted more harshly by state law enforcement and court authorities than homicide, or, as it is referred to in the Penal Code, murder or the unlawful killing of a human being. However, not all homicide charges are the same, and the optimal defense strategy often differs, even in cases with similar circumstances.
Contacting and retaining an experienced defense attorney should be your first and only priority if you are facing formal charges or even suspect you may soon face charges for any degree of murder. With the help of an experienced Key Largo homicide lawyer from Keys Criminal Defense, PLLC, you could maximize your chances of securing a favorable case outcome despite the life-altering allegations against you. Contact us today to learn more about your legal options.
Under current state law, homicide is one of only a few criminal offenses that the state can, under certain circumstances, prosecute as capital felonies punishable upon conviction by the death penalty. More specifically, murder in the first degree, as defined in Florida Statutes § 782.04, is a capital felony that can be punishable by the death penalty if the prosecution gives notice of its intent to pursue that outcome and informs the court in writing of the factors it believes can be established beyond a reasonable doubt. This offense is punishable by life imprisonment if the prosecution declines to take those steps.
Under the statute, a person commits first-degree murder by carrying out a planned, unlawful killing, causing a death while committing or attempting another violent felony, such as robbery or sexual battery, or causing someone’s death by supplying a highly dangerous controlled substance, such as cocaine, fentanyl, or methamphetamine. A Key Largo attorney’s support could be essential to constructing a strong defense strategy against all forms of capital murder charges.
Murder in the second degree occurs when someone commits an unlawful killing without premeditation but with a depraved mind or disregard for human life. The courts consider it a first-degree felony, punishable by up to life imprisonment and a maximum $10,000 fine upon conviction. Murder in the third degree occurs when a person unintentionally kills someone during the commission or attempted commission of a violent felony, a drug distribution offense, or both. The courts consider it a second-degree felony carrying maximum penalties upon conviction of 15 years in prison and $10,000 in fines.
According to Fla. Stat. § 782.07, manslaughter is defined as killing a person through culpable negligence. The courts can prosecute this as either a second-degree felony or a first-degree felony, depending on the age, mental status, or the person killed as a result of the defendant’s actions. A homicide defense attorney in Key Largo could help you understand your rights and build a comprehensive strategy against such charges.
Whether unintentional or allegedly premeditated, the state treats murder as one of the most severe felony offenses. However, it is possible to contest an allegation like this proactively and effectively with the support of knowledgeable legal counsel.
Working with a Key Largo homicide lawyer could make a substantial difference in how your case progresses and what outcome it ultimately has for you. Don’t go to court alone. Contact Keys Criminal Defense, PLLC, today to set up a confidential consultation with our team.
