West Palm Beach Homicide Defense Attorney
A homicide charge in Florida—whether murder, manslaughter, or criminal homicide—can result in life imprisonment or even the death penalty. At Russo Law & Advocacy, Dominique Russo defends clients across West Palm Beach, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale against the most serious violent crime allegations. We challenge forensic evidence, witness credibility, and prosecutorial overreach to protect your rights and future.
Our West Palm Beach Homicide Attorney Is There for You
Homicide cases are among the most complex in Florida law. Whether you’re accused of first-degree murder, manslaughter, or involuntary homicide, we meticulously analyze police reports, autopsy findings, and circumstantial evidence to build the strongest defense.
What Is Homicide?
Homicide is the unlawful killing of another person. Under Florida Statute § 782.04, it ranges from capital murder (death penalty eligible) to vehicular manslaughter (2nd-degree felony).
Difference Between Murder and Manslaughter
Murder requires premeditation or intent, while manslaughter (FS § 782.07) involves reckless or negligent acts (e.g., DUI deaths). Penalties vary drastically—we fight to downgrade charges.
Homicide Cases in West Palm Beach
Palm Beach County prosecutors aggressively pursue homicide convictions. We challenge flawed investigations—common in West Palm Beach homicide cases involving gang violence or domestic disputes.
Florida Homicide Laws (FS § 782.04)
Florida recognizes three main homicide charges:
- First-Degree Murder (Premeditated or felony murder) – Life or death penalty
- Second-Degree Murder (Intentional but not premeditated) – Up to life
- Manslaughter (Reckless/Negligent killing) – Up to 15 years
- Aggravating factors (gun use, child victims) increase penalties.
Types of Homicide Cases We Handle
First-Degree Murder
Requires proof of premeditation. We attack timeline inconsistencies and alibis.
Vehicular Homicide (DUI Manslaughter)
Even a first-time DUI causing death is a 2nd-degree felony (FS § 316.193). We challenge BAC tests and accident reconstruction.
Felony Murder Rule
If a death occurs during another felony (e.g., robbery), all participants face murder charges. We argue lack of intent.
Key Defenses in Homicide Cases
- Self-Defense (Stand Your Ground): No duty to retreat in Florida (FS § 776.012).
- Misidentification: Common in West Palm Beach homicides with poor lighting/witnesses.
- Forensic Flaws: Bloodstain pattern analysis errors, DNA contamination.
- Police Coercion: False confessions happen—we subpoena interrogation tapes.
Steps in a Florida Homicide Case
- Arrest & No Bond Hearing (Murder charges often mean no bail—we file emergency motions.)
- Grand Jury Indictment (Required for 1st-degree murder. We present exculpatory evidence early.)
- Discovery Phase (Review 10,000+ pages of evidence, from cell records to autopsy reports.)
- Plea Negotiations (Seeking manslaughter deals to avoid life sentences.)
- Trial (90% of homicide cases plead out—we prepare every case for trial.)
Why You Need a Homicide Specialist
Prosecutors overcharge homicide cases to secure plea deals. Dominique Russo’s experience in Palm Beach and Miami-Dade courts ensures:
- Forensic experts re-examine evidence
- Witnesses are cross-examined aggressively
- Jury understands reasonable doubt
Homicide Charges FAQs
What’s the sentence for manslaughter in Florida?
Up to 15 years (2nd-degree felony). DUI manslaughter has a 4-year minimum.
Is there a difference between murder and homicide?
All murders are homicides, but not all homicides are murders (e.g., justifiable self-defense).
Contact Our West Palm Beach Homicide Attorney
Don’t speak to police—homicide interrogations are designed to trap you. Call Russo Law & Advocacy 24/7: (561) 216-8555. Serving West Palm Beach, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and all South Florida counties.
