Jacksonville Homicide Attorney

Experienced Criminal Defense for Homicide Charges in Jacksonville, FL

Being accused of homicide is one of the most serious and life-altering legal challenges a person can face. In Florida, homicide encompasses any act where one person causes the death of another, but not all homicides are considered criminal. Some killings may be excusable or justifiable, such as those committed in self-defense or defense of another. Understanding the nuances of Florida’s homicide laws is critical, and having an experienced Jacksonville homicide attorney by your side is essential to protect your rights and your future.

At First Coast Criminal Defense, we defend individuals accused of homicide and other violent crimes throughout Jacksonville. We provide aggressive, strategic legal representation while guiding you through this complex and emotionally challenging process.

Call (904) 474-3115 today for a free consultation with a skilled homicide defense lawyer.

Understanding Homicide in Florida

Homicide broadly refers to one person causing the death of another, but Florida law distinguishes between different types and degrees of homicide. Not all homicides are “murder,” which is reserved for the most serious, intentional killings. Florida Statutes, primarily Chapter 782, define and regulate the various categories of homicide, the circumstances under which they are considered criminal, and the penalties that apply.

Types of Homicide Charges in Florida

Murder Charges (Florida Statute 782.04):

• First-Degree Murder: A capital felony carrying either the death penalty or life in prison without parole. This charge applies to premeditated killings, murders committed during certain serious felonies (like robbery or sexual battery), or deaths resulting from unlawful distribution of controlled substances.
• Second-Degree Murder: A first-degree felony with potential life imprisonment. Often called “depraved heart” murder, it involves acts imminently dangerous to others, without premeditation.
• Third-Degree Murder: A second-degree felony with a maximum sentence of 15 years. This applies when a death occurs during the commission of a felony not listed under second-degree murder, and the defendant acted without intent to kill.

Manslaughter Charges (Florida Statute 782.07):
Manslaughter covers unlawful homicide that doesn’t meet the criteria for murder. It can be a second-degree felony with up to 15 years in prison. Aggravated manslaughter is a first-degree felony, punishable by life imprisonment, and occurs when negligence causes the death of a child, elderly person, disabled adult, or first responder.

Other Homicide-Related Charges:

• Attempted Felony Murder (782.051): Involves aiding in acts during the commission of a felony that could result in death.
• Vehicular Homicide (782.071): Occurs when reckless operation of a motor vehicle causes death.
• Assisting Suicide (782.08): Charged as manslaughter when someone deliberately helps another end their life.
• Killing an Unborn Child (782.09): Charged based on the applicable homicide level if the mother were killed.
• Unnecessary Killing to Prevent a Felony (782.11): Involves killing someone during the prevention of a felony, charged as manslaughter.

Each homicide offense carries serious consequences, including lengthy prison terms, life sentences, or even the death penalty.

Common Defenses in Homicide Cases

Defending against homicide charges requires experience, strategy, and a deep understanding of the facts of your case. A skilled Jacksonville homicide attorney can explore multiple defense options:

• Challenging Evidence: Suppressing illegally obtained evidence can weaken or dismiss the prosecution’s case. Ensuring the chain of custody and legality of all evidence is critical.
• Alibi Defense: Proving you were elsewhere during the crime using cell phone records, workplace logs, witnesses, or surveillance footage.
• Self-Defense or Justifiable Use of Deadly Force: Florida law allows the use of deadly force to prevent murder or other serious felonies, including defending your home. The burden is on the defendant to show justification.
• Mistaken Identity: Eyewitness accounts can be unreliable. A defense attorney investigates discrepancies in testimony and seeks witnesses to support your version of events.
• Challenging Premeditation: Many first-degree murder cases hinge on proving premeditation. A defense may reduce charges to a lesser degree of homicide.
• Holding the Prosecution to Its Burden: The state must prove each element of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. A skilled attorney identifies weaknesses in evidence and arguments, potentially leading to dismissal, acquittal, or favorable plea negotiations.

Each case is unique, and effective defense strategies require careful planning, detailed investigation, and expert legal guidance.

Why Early Legal Representation Matters

From the moment of arrest or investigation, your legal rights and freedom are at stake. Early representation ensures that:

• Your rights are protected during questioning and investigation.
• Evidence is properly preserved, and exculpatory evidence is identified.
• You understand the implications of statements made to law enforcement.
• You receive strategic guidance on plea offers or trial options.

The initial stages of a homicide case often determine the trajectory of your defense, making prompt action essential.

Choosing First Coast Criminal Defense

Jacksonville families trust First Coast Criminal Defense because we combine trial expertise with personalized attention:

• Board Certified Criminal Trial Lawyers: Proven experience defending serious criminal charges.
• Aggressive Legal Strategy: Skilled negotiation and courtroom representation.
• 24/7 Availability: We are available whenever you need guidance or support.
• Free Initial Consultation: No-cost case review to explain your rights and options.
• Proven Track Record: Extensive experience handling complex criminal cases, including multiple homicide trials.

Our attorneys guide clients through every aspect of their case, from pre-trial motions to jury selection and trial defense, ensuring no detail is overlooked.

Contact a Jacksonville Homicide Attorney Today

If you or a loved one faces homicide charges or an investigation, time is critical. First Coast Criminal Defense is ready to provide aggressive legal representation, guidance, and support throughout this challenging process.

Call (904) 474-3115 or fill out our online form to schedule a free, confidential consultation. Your future, freedom, and life are too important to wait.