Miami Homicide Attorney
When you think of crimes, homicide is likely the most serious criminal charge you could face. It is often synonymous with the killing of another person, although there are various degrees of homicide.
A homicide charge could mean a lifetime in prison. It is a violent crime and is not something you should take lightly. You don’t want to handle something like this on your own. Get aggressive representation from a Miami homicide attorney from Asilia Law Firm today.
Types of Homicide
Florida recognizes the following types of homicide:
- Murder is the unlawful killing of another human being with premeditation and deliberation. In Florida, first-degree murder is punishable by life in prison or the death penalty.
- Felony murder. Felony murder occurs when a death results while committing a felony, even if the death was unintentional. Under Florida law, anyone involved in certain felonies where a death occurs can be charged with murder.
- Manslaughter is the killing of another person without premeditation or malice aforethought. There is voluntary manslaughter, which occurs when a person intentionally kills another person in the heat of passion. Involuntary manslaughter occurs when a person unintentionally kills another person through reckless or negligent behavior.
- Vehicular homicide. This involves causing the death of another person while operating a motor vehicle in a reckless or negligent manner.
Defenses to Homicide
Homicide can be tough to defend, but it is possible. Here are some defenses your lawyer may use:
- Self-defense. This means that you acted to protect yourself from imminent harm. However, the force used must be reasonable and proportional to the threat perceived.
- Defense of others. Similar to self-defense, this defense applies when a person reasonably believes that another person is in imminent danger and intervenes to protect them.
- Defense of property. You may be able to use reasonable force to defend your property against intruders or thieves.
- If the death occurred accidentally, with no intention to cause harm, this defense may apply.
- Insanity or mental incapacity. You may be able to argue that you were insane or not mentally capable of understanding the consequences of your actions at the time of the homicide.
- Involuntary intoxication. If you were drugged by someone without your knowledge, this might be considered a defense.
- If you were compelled to commit the homicide under threat of harm to yourself or others, you may have a defense of duress.
- This defense is not common but can be used when a person commits homicide to prevent a greater harm or evil.
Contact Asilia Law Firm Today
Homicide is a serious crime with harsh penalties involved. Even if the death was unintentional, you need a strong legal defense.
A homicide is a felony that will affect your life in many ways. Protect your legal rights with help from a Miami homicide attorney from Asilia Law Firm. Schedule a consultation by filling out the online form or calling (786) 420-3014.