Homicide

Murder and Manslaughter

Under Florida law, murder and manslaughter are forms of homicide. It is rare that a conviction for either of these charges not to require a jail or prison sentence. More specifically, Murder (Florida Statute § 782.04) is the unlawful killing of a human being. Murder can be committed a number of different ways, and carries serious penalties as well as long mandatory minimum prison sentences. On the other hand, Manslaughter (Florida Statute § 782.07) is the killing of a human being by culpable negligence without lawful justification. Culpable negligence is an act beyond normal negligence that is so gross and flagrant that it evidences a reckless disregard for human life and the consequences of one’s own actions. Manslaughter will carry a mandatory minimum sentence if a firearm was involved.

The Law Offices of Whittel & Melton, LLC has this experience and is ready to advise you if you have been charged with these serious offenses. If you have been charged with homicide, please contact us today for a consultation. Lawyers, staff and assistants are ready to assist in your defense.