Homicide Attorney in Miami

A Former Miami-Dade Prosecutor Now Fighting for the Defense

When someone faces a homicide charge, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Law Office of Michael Mirer, P.A. defends individuals charged with murder and homicide throughout Miami and South Florida, led by Attorney Michael Mirer, a former Miami-Dade Prosecutor with more than two decades of trial experience. That prosecutorial background means we know how the state builds these cases, and we use that knowledge to dismantle them.

If you or someone you know has been arrested or is under investigation for homicide in Miami, don’t wait. Call us now at (800) 798-0243 to schedule a free consultation. We’re available 24/7.

How Florida Classifies Homicide Charges

Florida Statute 782.04 divides murder into three degrees based on intent, planning, and the circumstances of the killing. Understanding which charge applies matters immediately, because the penalties and the defense strategy differ at each level.

First-Degree Murder
This is a capital felony, punishable by death or life imprisonment without the possibility of parole. It requires premeditation or occurs during the commission of a specified predicate felony under the felony murder rule, such as robbery or sexual battery.

Second-Degree Murder
This charge applies when someone commits an act imminently dangerous to another that shows a depraved indifference to human life, without premeditated intent toward a specific victim. It’s a first-degree felony carrying a potential sentence of up to life imprisonment.

Third-Degree Murder
When a death results from the commission of a non-enumerated felony, Florida charges third-degree murder, a second-degree felony punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

Manslaughter
Under Florida Statute 782.07, manslaughter covers killings that aren’t excusable homicide or murder. Simple manslaughter is a second-degree felony with up to 15 years in prison. Aggravated manslaughter, involving the death of a child under 18, an elderly person or disabled adult, or an officer, firefighter, emergency medical technician, or paramedic, is a first-degree felony punishable by up to 30 years in prison.

Why Miami Clients Choose Us for Homicide Defense

Attorney Mirer’s years as a Miami-Dade prosecutor give our firm an inside view of how the state attorney’s office evaluates, builds, and presents homicide cases. We bring that same analytical approach to the defense table.

That perspective has produced concrete results. In a second-degree murder case heard in Miami-Dade Criminal Court, Attorney Mirer’s investigation and negotiation led the state attorney to drop all charges against his client, resulting in a disposition of no action. Past results don’t guarantee future outcomes, but they reflect how seriously we prepare each case.

Our approach to every homicide defense includes:

• Personalized strategy: We build a defense around the specific facts of your case, not a template
• Experienced investigators and expert witnesses: Forensic, ballistic, and medical experts become part of the team when the evidence demands it
• Local court familiarity: We know the Circuit Criminal Division, its judges, and the prosecutors who handle Miami-Dade homicide cases
• Clear communication: You stay informed at every stage, in plain language
• Rehabilitation focus: Where appropriate, we pursue alternative sentencing that centers your long-term well-being
• Flexible fees: We offer cost-effective solutions tailored to individual circumstances

Defense Strategies in Florida Homicide Cases

Florida law provides several recognized defenses that can apply to homicide charges depending on the facts. Under the Stand Your Ground law (Florida Statute 776.012) and the Castle Doctrine (Florida Statute 776.013), justifiable homicide applies when a person reasonably believed deadly force was necessary to prevent imminent death or great bodily harm. Excusable homicide under Florida Statute 782.03 covers accidental killings during lawful activity without criminal negligence.

Beyond statutory defenses, strong homicide defense often means challenging the state’s evidence directly: contesting premeditation, asserting mistaken identity, or attacking the reliability of forensic evidence such as ballistics reports, DNA analysis, or autopsy findings. We evaluate every evidentiary angle before committing to a strategy.

After a Homicide Arrest in Miami-Dade

Whether you’ve been arrested or police have simply made contact, the most important thing you can do is remain silent and request an attorney before answering any questions. Any statement made to law enforcement can be used against you in court. Invoke your rights and say nothing further until counsel is present.

Felony homicide cases in Miami-Dade County are heard in the Circuit Criminal Division, which handles offenses carrying a potential sentence of more than one year or the death penalty. That court sits at the Richard E. Gerstein Justice Building in Miami. We practice regularly in that courthouse and understand how cases move through its divisions.

Speak with a Homicide Lawyer in Miami Today

A homicide charge or investigation demands immediate, experienced legal representation. We offer a free initial consultation and are available around the clock. The sooner we can review the facts, the sooner we can begin building your defense.

Call (800) 798-0243 now to speak directly with our team. Don’t face a homicide charge without a defense attorney who knows how prosecutors think.