Fort Lauderdale Homicide Lawyer

Homicide is the killing of another person, and it is treated as one of the most serious crimes in the state of Florida. You may be facing many years behind bars, or even life. We urge you to seek out the most experienced lawyer available to mount your defense against the prosecution’s case. Our Fort Lauderdale homicide lawyer at Haber | Blank LLP has successfully assisted clients in all types of homicide cases.

First Degree Murder

First degree murder occurs when a perpetrator has premeditation. Premeditation can occur just seconds before committing murder. As such, it is not necessary for prosecutors to prove that a defendant was planning and plotting to kill their victim days or weeks in advance. First degree murder is also charged when an individual kills another person during the commission of a felony, such as burglary, robbery, carjacking, or arson, even if the defendant did not intend to harm or kill that person. First degree murder is a capital felony, punished by life in prison without parole, or the death sentence.

Second Degree Murder

Second degree murder occurs when an individual kills another while having a “depraved” or “evil” mind, or with malice aforethought. Having a depraved mind occurs when a person kills another during the commission of a dangerous act. Second degree murder does not involve the element of intent to kill, however. Second degree murder is a life felony, punishable by up to life in prison. One can also be charged with second degree murder if they are an accomplice to first degree murder.

Third Degree Murder

Third degree murder occurs when the perpetrator unintentionally kills another person during the commission of a nonviolent felony. Third degree murder is a second degree felony, punishable by up to 15 years in prison. A common example of when prosecutor’s bring third degree charges is when a person dies after overdosing on a controlled substance, such as fentanyl. The person who gave or sold the fentanyl to the decedent can be tried for third degree murder.

Manslaughter

Manslaughter is another form of homicide, but is a lesser charge than murder. There are two forms of manslaughter. Voluntary manslaughter occurs when a person is provoked in the heat of the moment, and suddenly has the urge to harm the other person. This might occur in a bar fight, for example. Voluntary manslaughter is a first degree felony, punishable by up to 30 years in prison.

Involuntary manslaughter occurs when someone’s unlawful and careless or reckless actions cause the death of another. Reckless or careless driving causing the death of another road user is involuntary manslaughter, and is a second degree felony punishable by up to 15 years in prison.

Call a Fort Lauderdale Homicide Lawyer Today

Homicide is an extremely serious crime, no matter the degree. You need the best possible legal defense team to protect your rights and give yourself the best odds at staying out of prison. Look no further than the Fort Lauderdale homicide lawyer at Haber | Blank LLP. Contact us today at 954-767-0300 to schedule a free consultation.