Florida Manslaughter Charges
Criminal Defense Lawyer in Miami
Florida law defines manslaughter as the unlawful killing of another human being, most often involving recklessness or negligence. It is designated from murder, which may involve premeditation, planning and malice aforethought.
For example, vehicular manslaughter is when an offender is drunk or impaired and causes the death of another person while driving a motor vehicle. Although the defendant did not intentionally cause the death of another person, he or she will still be held responsible and may face a manslaughter conviction as a result of his or her actions.
At times, there may be a fine line between murder and manslaughter. Whether you are convicted and the extent of penalties you may face will depend on the particular circumstances of your case as well as on your attorney's ability to protect your rights and to negotiate with the prosecution for lesser charges, or perhaps to have your case dismissed altogether.
Penalties for Manslaughter
Manslaughter may be classified as a first degree or second degree felony in Florida. First degree manslaughter, or aggravated manslaughter, involves negligent homicide involving an elderly person, a child under 18 years old, or a peace officer. This offense is punishable by life imprisonment.
Simple manslaughter, a second degree felony, involves negligently causing the death of another person. This offense is punishable by up to 15 years in state prison. The defendant may also face a fine of up to $10,000 and the reality of dealing with a "strike" on his or her criminal record, leading to double the penalties for any future violent crime conviction for a felony offense.
Choose an Experienced Miami Criminal Attorney to Fight Your Charges
Miami criminal defense attorney Michael Mirer is here to offer you the experienced legal counsel and dedicated representation you deserve in the face of your criminal charges. With over a decade of experience as a trial attorney and a background as a former prosecutor as well, attorney Michael Mirer has the knowledge and skill to handle these cases.
For the legal help you need, contact a Miami manslaughter defense lawyer at the Law Office of Michael Mirer, P.A. today.
