Manslaughter Attorneys in Orlando

Providing Clients With High-Quality Legal Representation When They Need it Most

If you have been charged with manslaughter, your freedom, future, and reputation in the community are in dire jeopardy.

However, not all criminal defense attorneys are qualified to handle Florida manslaughter cases. Many defense attorneys need to gain the experience and skills to negotiate for their clients.

As a result, anyone who has been charged with manslaughter must hire a well-qualified criminal defense attorney who will fight to protect their freedom.

Contact The Defense Group of Orlando, FL, immediately to schedule a free, confidential case evaluation. We will gladly conduct a comprehensive review of your case to determine what legal strategies will meet your needs.

When Can a Person Be Charged With Manslaughter?

Under Florida law, three distinct circumstances may occur that can result in an individual being charged with manslaughter.

Manslaughter by Act

An individual may be charged with Manslaughter by Act or voluntary manslaughter if the individual intentionally commits an act that is considered unjustified and results in the death of another.

Manslaughter by Procurement

An individual may be charged with Manslaughter by Procurement, also called voluntary manslaughter, if they encourage, induce, or persuade someone else to commit an act that results in the death of another.

Manslaughter by Culpable Negligence

An individual may be charged with Manslaughter by Culpable Negligence, commonly known as involuntary manslaughter, if they participate in an act that results in the death of another.

If you need further clarification regarding the legal criteria that law enforcement and prosecutors use to determine manslaughter charges, contact The Defense Group immediately. Our knowledgeable lawyers will answer your questions and provide you with a free case evaluation so that you can make informed decisions regarding your legal options.

What are the Criminal Penalties if a Person is Convicted of Manslaughter?

Florida law classifies manslaughter as a second-degree felony. Individuals convicted of manslaughter may be sentenced to up to 15 years in a Florida state prison, 15 years of supervised probation, and a fine of $10,000.

However, Florida has enhanced penalties if the crime of manslaughter occurs as the result of the use of a firearm or other weapon. Manslaughter with a firearm or weapon in Florida is considered a first-degree felony punishable by up to 30 years in a Florida state prison, 30 years of probation, and a $10,000 fine.

Manslaughter With a Firearm

If a defendant is convicted of manslaughter with a firearm, Florida judges must sentence the offender to a minimum of 11½ years in state prison. However, courts also have the legal discretion to sentence offenders to a maximum of 30 years as allowed by state law.

Manslaughter With a Weapon

If a defendant is convicted of manslaughter with a weapon, Florida judges must sentence the offender to a minimum sentence of 10⅓ years in state prison. However, courts may also impose a maximum sentence of 30 years at their discretion.

Even though manslaughter charges do not carry the same penalties as other homicide charges, a conviction can still result in a lengthy prison stay for those who have been convicted.

For this reason, if you have been charged with manslaughter, you must have a lawyer who will provide you with aggressive legal representation to protect your freedom and future. Contact The Defense Group immediately so we can provide you with the skilled legal representation you need to obtain favorable results.

Are There Any Legal Defenses to Manslaughter Charges?

Although the crime of manslaughter is considered a serious criminal offense in Florida, several possible legal defenses may be used by defense attorneys, which include:

Excusable Homicide

A skilled criminal attorney may be able to present one of three legal defense arguments that homicide was excusable.

• Even though ordinary caution was used, the victim’s death occurred due to an accident or misfortune that was not the result of unlawful intent.
• The victim’s death occurred by accident or misfortune in the heat of passion upon provocation from the deceased.
• The victim’s death occurred by accident and misfortune as a result of sudden combat. However, this argument is only valid if no weapon was used, or the victim did not die in a cruel or unusual manner.

Justifiable Homicide

A criminal defense lawyer may be able to argue the victim’s death was the result of justifiable homicide if the victim was trying to kill the defendant or commit a felony against them.

Finally, a self-defense argument may be made if specific legal elements are met. However, Florida Stand Your Ground and self-defense laws are overly complex and require the help of a knowledgeable defense attorney.

Why Should I Trust Your Manslaughter Attorneys to Protect My Freedom?

The Defense Group of Orlando, FL, is a law firm dedicated to aggressive legal representation for clients facing serious criminal charges.

Our team of legal professionals understands that sometimes situations occur that are beyond our client’s control, which tragically can result in another person’s death.

Our experienced defense attorneys are all former state prosecutors, and they have a distinct advantage in understanding what it takes to obtain favorable results for our clients.

Therefore, you must seek legal representation from a well-experienced criminal defense lawyer who can analyze the facts of your case to determine what type of defense is appropriate.

Our attorneys are available 24 hours a day to answer your questions, and appointments can be arranged for nights and weekends.

Contact our Orlando law offices by calling 407-743-8430 to schedule a free no-obligation case evaluation so that we may thoroughly review your case and determine how we may assist you.