Facing a Violent Felony Charge? Get an Orlando Violent Crimes Lawyer Who Is Ready for Trial.

Murder defense is among the most demanding work in criminal law. Fees depend on the degree of the charge, the complexity of the evidence, whether experts are needed and whether the case goes to trial. Your first consultation is free and confidential, and we'll explain our fee and what it covers in writing before you decide.

Intent. First-degree murder requires premeditation or a death during certain felonies. Second-degree murder requires an act imminently dangerous to others and showing a depraved mind, without premeditation. Manslaughter (§ 782.07) is an unlawful killing by act, procurement or culpable negligence that isn't murder and isn't justified or excusable. First-degree murder carries death or life without parole; second-degree murder up to life; manslaughter up to 15 years.

It's possible, though no attorney can promise it. Charges can be reduced — from first- to second-degree murder or from murder to manslaughter — or dismissed when the defense challenges premeditation, establishes self-defense or Stand Your Ground immunity, exposes weaknesses in forensic evidence, or shows the State can't meet its burden. Early involvement gives you the most options.

Under § 782.04(1)(a)2., a person can be charged with first-degree murder if someone dies during certain felonies — including robbery, burglary, kidnapping, arson, sexual battery, carjacking and home-invasion robbery — even if the death wasn't intended and even if someone else caused it. That's how a getaway driver can face a murder charge. Deaths during other felonies can be charged as second- or third-degree murder.

Yes. First-degree murder is a capital felony, and the State must give notice within 45 days of arraignment if it intends to seek death. Since 2023, a jury recommendation of at least 8 of 12 jurors is enough for a death sentence; otherwise the sentence is life without parole. Presenting mitigating evidence is a critical part of the defense in any capital case.

Florida law (§§ 776.012, 776.013) lets you use deadly force without retreating if you reasonably believe it's necessary to prevent imminent death, great bodily harm or a forcible felony, and you're somewhere you have a right to be. Under § 776.032, your attorney can ask a judge to decide immunity before trial. Once you make a prima facie claim, the State must disprove it by clear and convincing evidence. If immunity is granted, the case is dismissed and never reaches a jury.

It depends. Florida's Constitution allows a person charged with a capital offense or an offense punishable by life to be held without bond when the proof of guilt is evident or the presumption is great — the State must make that showing at an Arthur hearing. If it can't, or for other homicide charges like third-degree murder or manslaughter, bond is generally available, though often high. We present your community ties, work and family to argue for reasonable release.

Yes — this may be when you need one most. Even when the facts point to self-defense, you can still be arrested and charged, and police and prosecutors don't make the final call; a judge or jury does. A defense attorney secures the forensic evidence and witnesses early, keeps you from making statements that can be misread, and files for Stand Your Ground immunity when the facts support it.