Fort Lauderdale Manslaughter Lawyer
Almost 30 years of proven results: That is what you want on your side
A charge of manslaughter may not be as serious as one of murder. Chances are it was unintentional. But it can still get you a prison sentence of up to 15 years.
There are many potential defenses to manslaughter charges — but it takes a lawyer who is a trial-tested veteran of the courts to know how to craft a defense that can lead to acquittal. At the Fort Lauderdale criminal defense law firm of Kevin J. Kulik, P.A., we bring all our skills and experience to bear in creating strategies and finding holes in the prosecution’s case that lead to reasonable doubt.
We believe not only that you have the right to a defense, but also that you deserve the best possible defense. As criminal attorneys, it is our job to protect your rights. Moreover, as Fort Lauderdale manslaughter lawyers, it is our goal to obtain positive results.
Understanding Florida’s manslaughter laws
Manslaughter is a crime of homicide in that your alleged actions caused the death of another. It is different from murder in that there is either no premeditation or it did not occur during the commission of a felony.
The state of Florida defines manslaughter as “the killing of a human being by the act, procurement, or culpable negligence of another, without lawful justification … ”
Culpable negligence is defined as “… the failure to use reasonable care. Reasonable care is that degree of care which a reasonably careful person would use under like circumstances.”
Voluntary manslaughter
If a person was intentionally killed, but you had no plan or prior intention of killing that person, you are charged with voluntary manslaughter. Voluntary manslaughter often occurs in the heat of passion and may also be considered manslaughter by act, as the manslaughter was not excusable or justifiable.
Voluntary manslaughter is a second-degree felony punishable by a prison term of up to 15 years, a fine of as much as $10,000 or both.
Involuntary manslaughter
Sometimes referred to as criminally negligent homicide, involuntary manslaughter means that there was no intent to kill, but that there was negligence. Examples of involuntary manslaughter often include vehicular manslaughter, in which a motorist was driving recklessly, whether drunk or otherwise, and caused a fatal accident.
Penalties for involuntary manslaughter, a second-degree felony in Florida, include up to 15 years of incarceration, a fine of up to $10,000 or both.
Aggravated manslaughter
Aggravated manslaughter is an enhanced charge, meaning that there are circumstances that make the crime especially heinous. If your act of negligence caused the death of an elderly person or a child under the age of 18, or the death of a first responder (such as firefighters or emergency medical personnel), you are charged with aggravated manslaughter.
Because it is an enhanced charge, aggravated manslaughter is a first-degree felony punishable by a life sentence.
If you are facing a Florida manslaughter charge, get the experienced legal representation you need
We offer a free and confidential consultation to hear your story and to discuss how we can help. To schedule a time to meet with Fort Lauderdale manslaughter lawyer Kevin Kulik, please call us at 954-761-9411 or contact Kevin J. Kulik, P.A. online. We can arrange to meet you at your home or prison, if necessary.
