St. Johns County Homicide Attorney

Aggressive Defense for Homicide Charges in St. Johns County, FL

Few legal situations are more serious than being accused of homicide. In Florida, homicide includes any act where one person causes the death of another, but not every killing is criminal. Some may be deemed excusable or justifiable, such as cases involving self-defense. If you or a loved one is facing a homicide investigation or charge in St. Johns County, your freedom—and possibly your life—is at stake.

At First Coast Criminal Defense, we provide aggressive, strategic representation for individuals accused of homicide. Our experienced St. Johns County homicide attorneys understand how to navigate Florida’s complex laws and will fight tirelessly to protect your rights, your reputation, and your future.

Call us today at (904) 474-3115 to schedule a free, confidential consultation.

Understanding Homicide in Florida

Florida law, primarily Chapter 782 of the Florida Statutes, outlines several types of homicide offenses. While all involve the unlawful killing of another person, the severity of the charge and the potential penalties depend on the circumstances.

Murder Charges

• First-Degree Murder: A capital felony that may result in life imprisonment without parole or the death penalty. Applies to premeditated killings, murders during serious felonies (such as robbery or sexual assault), or deaths from unlawful drug distribution.
• Second-Degree Murder: A first-degree felony punishable by life imprisonment. Often called “depraved mind” murder, this involves dangerous acts showing disregard for human life, without premeditation.
• Third-Degree Murder: A second-degree felony with up to 15 years in prison. This charge applies when a death occurs during a non-violent felony without intent to kill.

Manslaughter Charges

Manslaughter involves an unlawful killing without the intent required for murder.

• Manslaughter: A second-degree felony, punishable by up to 15 years in prison.
• Aggravated Manslaughter: A first-degree felony if negligence leads to the death of a child, elderly person, disabled adult, or first responder, with penalties up to life imprisonment.

Other Homicide-Related Offenses

• Vehicular Homicide: Causing death through reckless driving.
• Attempted Felony Murder: Involves actions during a felony that could have caused death.
• Assisting Suicide: Charged as manslaughter when someone intentionally helps another end their life.
• Killing of an Unborn Child: Punished based on the homicide level that would apply if the mother were killed.

Each of these charges carries devastating consequences, and the stakes could not be higher.

Common Defenses in Homicide Cases

A strong defense requires both legal skill and a careful investigation into the facts of your case. At First Coast Criminal Defense, we examine every angle to challenge the prosecution’s evidence. Potential defenses include:

• Self-Defense or Defense of Others: Florida’s “Stand Your Ground” law permits the use of deadly force to prevent imminent death or serious harm.
• Excusable Homicide: Certain killings may be considered excusable under state law, such as accidental deaths without negligence.
• Challenging Premeditation: In first-degree murder cases, proving a lack of premeditation can lead to a reduced charge.
• Mistaken Identity: Eyewitness errors or unreliable testimony can wrongly implicate innocent people.
• Challenging Evidence: We fight to suppress unlawfully obtained evidence, expose gaps in the chain of custody, and question forensic reliability.
• Alibi Defense: Cell phone data, witness testimony, or video surveillance may prove you were not at the scene.

The prosecution must prove every element of its case beyond a reasonable doubt. Our attorneys know how to exploit weaknesses in the state’s evidence and arguments to protect your rights.

Why Early Legal Representation Matters

The decisions made in the early stages of a homicide investigation can shape the entire case. Engaging an experienced defense attorney immediately ensures that:

• Your constitutional rights are protected during questioning and searches.
• Evidence favorable to your defense is preserved before it is lost.
• You avoid making statements that may be used against you later.
• You receive strategic advice on whether to consider plea negotiations or proceed to trial.

Time is critical. The sooner you contact an attorney, the stronger your defense can be.

Why Choose First Coast Criminal Defense?

Residents of St. Johns County turn to our firm because of our reputation for aggressive, client-focused defense. When you work with First Coast Criminal Defense, you benefit from:

• Board-Certified Criminal Trial Lawyers: A mark of proven experience in defending the most serious charges.
• Aggressive Legal Strategy: We challenge every aspect of the prosecution’s case, from pre-trial motions through jury trial.
• Local Insight: Our attorneys are familiar with the courts, judges, and prosecutors in St. Johns County.
• 24/7 Availability: Serious charges require immediate responses, and we are always available to help.
• Track Record of Results: We have handled complex criminal cases, including homicide, with skill and success.

We take a client-centered approach, ensuring you are informed, supported, and empowered at every step.

Take Action to Protect Your Future

If you or a loved one is facing homicide charges in St. Johns County, your freedom—and possibly your life—hangs in the balance. Do not wait. Contact First Coast Criminal Defense today to secure the aggressive, strategic representation you need.

Your future is too important to leave to chance. Let us stand between you and the full force of the criminal justice system.

Call us now at (904) 474-3115 or complete our online form to request a free, confidential consultation with an experienced St. Johns County homicide attorney.