The charge of murder is the most serious allegation you can face in Florida’s criminal justice system, which makes it paramount to bring your strongest defense. Penalties for a conviction range from 15 years in prison to life without parole or even the death sentence, which highlights the severity of the charge.
If you or someone you care about is facing a murder charge, you need the legal guidance of one of our skilled criminal defense attorneys. Our Fort Pierce murder lawyer at The Law Offices of Robert David Malove could listen carefully to the facts of your situation and explain the legal options available to you.
Types of Murder Charges
Florida has three distinct murder charges that carry a wide range of serious penalties.
Third-Degree Murder Charges
The charge of third-degree murder in the state is highly specific, which makes it a less common charge. It amounts to causing the death of another person during the commission or attempted commission of a nonviolent felony, such as a white collar crime or grand theft. While the defendant must have caused someone else’s death for the charge to hold, the act must have been unintentional.
A conviction carries from 10 years and four months to 15 years in prison with fines of up to $10,000. The exacting nature of the charge, however, makes it fairly uncommon.
It is also important to note that when a death is drug-related, the offense is automatically charged as first-degree murder. This applies regardless of the accused person’s intent.
Second-Degree Murder Charges
The charge of second-degree murder refers to unlawfully killing a human being through any act that puts the person in imminent danger. Prosecutors may pursue this charge based on allegations of a depraved mind and disregard of human life, even in the absence of premeditation. For that reason, they often refer to the charge as depraved mind murder.
When two people participate in a felony and one of them commits murder in the process, the other person can face the charge of accomplice felony murder, which is another form of second-degree murder. The penalties for a conviction range from 16 years and nine months in prison with no possibility of parole, up to a life sentence. If the prosecution alleges that you used a firearm during the offense, this supports enhanced penalties, and the minimum prison sentence increases to 25 years.
First-Degree Murder Charges
First-degree murder charges in Fort Pierce, FL typically involve allegations of either premeditated murder or felony murder. Premeditated murder alleges an intentional killing after planning. Felony murder alleges a killing that occurs during certain serious felonies, such as:
- Sexual battery
- Kidnapping
- Drug trafficking
- Home invasion robbery
A first-degree murder conviction can result in life in prison without parole or the death penalty. If you are facing a homicide charge in Fort Pierce, speaking with our experienced legal counsel as soon as possible is critical.
How Could a Murder Lawyer Help Your Case?
Our dedicated Fort Pierce legal team could advise you of the importance of your right to remain silent and develop a defense strategy tailored to the circumstances surrounding the murder allegations. Carefully following our guidance from the outset could make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
Contact Our Fort Pierce Attorneys for Help Defending Against Homicide Charges
Murder is the most serious charge you could experience in the criminal justice system, and you are likely extremely worried about the outcome. It is crucial to have a lawyer’s help as you fight for your freedom. A knowledgeable Fort Pierce murder lawyer at The Law Offices of Robert David Malove could help build a strong defense on your behalf. Call or contact us online today to learn more.