Criminal Defense Attorneys in Miami, FL
Homicide, Murder and Attempted Murder Charges
Homicide, murder and attempted murder are types of violent crimes and are among the most serious charges an individual can face in Miami. If you are found guilty of causing the death of another person, whether deliberately or indirectly, you are looking at a very long prison sentence or the death penalty. If you were arrested or are a suspect in connection to a homicide or murder offense, it is imperative you seek legal counsel with an experienced criminal defense lawyer in Miami. Anything you say to the police can and will affect your case, but having a skilled criminal attorney on your side can help ensure your rights are protected and your charges reduced or possibly thrown out.
The Brody Law Firm, LLC is a South Florida law firm dedicated to helping individuals accused of committing or attempting to commit homicide or murder. Our Miami criminal lawyers will provide you with the solid, aggressive defense counsel you need to surpass your charges during trial. We are prepared to offer you legal defense against any of the following charges:
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Homicide
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Vehicular Homicide
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First, Second and Third-Degree Murder
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Manslaughter
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Attempted Murder
The Difference Between Homicide and Murder
The terms homicide and murder are often used interchangeably, but they do not mean the same thing. Homicide is the killing of another human being, likely accidental or unintentional, while murder involves the intent to kill another human being. From a legal standpoint, it is much worse to be convicted of murder because the suspect will be convicted on both homicide AND malicious intent to kill.
Homicide
Homicide charges involve a greater set of mitigating circumstances. For example, someone may have committed homicide in self defense after fearing for their life. The individual may not have even wished to hurt their attacker, but a struggle resulted in the attacker’s death. In many cases, homicide is not a criminal act. Having a skilled homicide attorney on your side can mean the difference between being charged with unintentional killing and reduced penalties or being subject to the maximum punishment for murder.
Murder
As opposed to homicide, murder is always considered an intentional killing. It is unlawful and committed with malicious intent to harm or kill or with reckless disregard for human life. Murder charges are penalized by their severity and are divided according to their degree, always depending on the circumstances pertaining to the crime.
First-degree Murder – The killing was premeditated or the suspect had intent to kill. This charge is often brought when another crime takes place, such as arson or robbery, and an innocent person dies during the course of the crime. A conviction of either type of first-degree murder yields a mandatory sentence of life imprisonment without parole, or death by lethal injection. First-degree murder is a capital charge – the most serious accusation that can be faced in the justice system.
Second-degree Murder – Does not involve premeditation, but can and often involves malicious intent. An example is a death that results from a fight. Florida considers second-degree murder to be a first-degree felony, with a sentence of up to life in prison without parole.
Manslaughter – A death that occurs without justification or excuse, but without premeditation or ill will. An accidental shooting resulting in death is considered manslaughter. Manslaughter is a second-degree felony, punishable by up to 15 years in prison.
Attempted Murder – The failed or aborted attempt to murder another person. There is intent to kill “direct step” toward killing. As with a murder charge, the penalties for an attempted murder charge vary with the degree of the crime. First degree attempted murder is often punishable with a life sentence, but there may be a possibility for parole. Second degree attempted murder charges usually result in a prison sentence between 5 to 15 years.
The Importance of Hiring Solid Legal Representation
Murder, attempted murder and homicide charges are extremely grave. Aside from the lengthy prison sentences, if convicted, an individual’s life will never be the same. Their chance of obtaining employment, credit or of ever having a “normal” life are extremely diminished. Prosecutors in Miami will often push for the maximum penalty. However, a skilled lawyer will know precisely how to attack the prosecution and their strategies.
The experienced criminal attorneys at our firm know exactly how to present evidence in our client’s favor in order to secure the best possible outcome for the case, which often involves a homicide sentence instead of a murder sentence, or reducing a first-degree murder charge to a second-degree charge.
Now more than ever, due to the 10-20-Life law that was passed back in 1999, it’s important to have a strong legal defense by your side during trial to avoid these severe penalties. How severe are they?
– As severe as pull a gun during a crime, receive an automatic 10 year minimum mandatory sentence.
– Shoot a gun during a crime, receive a 20 year minimum mandatory sentence.
– Shoot a person while committing a crime, receive 25 years to life mandatory sentence.
If you or someone you love was accused of killing another human being, turn to the Brody Law Firm, LLC today to schedule a consultation so we can discuss the best defense approach to protect your rights.