Miami Murder Attorney

Unlawful killing of a human being is the most severe crime a person can commit. This is called murder and it is punishable by the harshest penalties, including life in prison.

Murder and manslaughter are similar crimes, but the main difference is intent or malice. If the charge is murder, the prosecution must prove the defendant intended to kill the victim or killed the victim out of ill will, hatred, or spite. In a manslaughter charge, the prosecution must only prove the defendant killed someone out of negligence or recklessness.

There are several degrees of murder. First-degree murder is the most serious and it involves premeditation, which means that the killing was planned ahead of time. Second-degree murder occurs when a person commits murder with a depraved mind. This means that a person is killed without any premeditation but the offender showed no regard for human life. Third-degree murder occurs when a person unintentionally kills another person while committing a nonviolent felony, such as drunk driving or theft.

If you have been charged with murder, you need the strongest defense possible. A Miami murder attorney from Asilia Law Firm can assist you.

Could I Receive the Death Penalty?

Those convicted of murder may wonder if they will be given the death penalty. Capital punishment is legal in Florida. The state uses electrocution or lethal injection as its form of capital punishment. However, there are still close to 300 people who are awaiting the death penalty, so even if you are given a death sentence, it’s likely that you will die in prison.

In Florida, murder can be punished by death if it involves one of the following aggravating factors:

• It was committed by a person previously convicted of a felony and under sentence of imprisonment or felony probation.
• The defendant was previously convicted of another capital felony or of a felony involving the use or threat of violence to the person.
• The defendant knowingly created a great risk of death to many persons.
• It was committed for the purpose of avoiding a lawful arrest or escaping from custody.
• It was committed for financial gain.
• The crime was especially heinous, atrocious, or cruel.
• The crime was committed in a cold, calculated, and premeditated manner.
• The victim was a law enforcement officer who was on duty at the time.
• The victim was an elected or appointed public official engaged in their official duties.
• The victim was under 12 years of age.
• The victim was particularly vulnerable due to advanced age or disability.
• It was committed by a criminal gang member.
• It was committed by a person currently or formerly designated as a sexual predator.

Contact Asilia Law Firm Today

Murder is one of the most violent crimes a person can commit. As such, the penalties are the most severe.

Getting a favorable outcome is a long shot, but with a Miami murder attorney from Asilia Law Firm on your side, you have a good chance of prevailing. Fill out the online form or call (786) 420-3014 to schedule a consultation.