Voluntary vs. Involuntary Manslaughter Charges Florida
Being charged with manslaughter is one of the most serious criminal charges you can get. There are multiple types of manslaughter charges in Florida, each with different penalties.
Voluntary Manslaughter
In Florida, voluntary manslaughter is when someone commits a homicide while in the midst of a provocation. This means that the defendant did not seek out someone with the purpose of taking their life, but instead, acted in the heat of the moment. This differs from murder because murder involves premeditation.
Even though voluntary manslaughter is recognized as a crime of passion, it still results in someone’s death. This means that the penalties are severe.
If convicted, you face:
- Up to 15 years in prison, with a mandatory minimum sentence of nine-and-a-half years
- Up to $10,000 in fines
Involuntary Manslaughter
No one ever expects to face involuntary manslaughter charges, because involuntary manslaughter is exactly what it sounds like – the unintentional killing of someone else. For this charge, the defendant had no intent to take someone else’s life. Instead, the fatality occurred due to negligence.
The potential penalties are the same for those of voluntary manslaughter.
Criminally Negligent Homicide
Being charged with criminally negligent homicide may also lead to involuntary manslaughter charges and penalties. Criminal negligent homicide occurs specifically when an individual takes the life of someone else through the use of a motor vehicle, aircraft, or watercraft.
Fort Lauderdale Manslaughter Defense
If you are facing manslaughter charges in Florida, you must act quickly. When you are facing significant prison time, fines, and loss of your reputation, you need aggressive defense on your side. At Hager & Schwartz, P.A., we have defended numerous clients facing serious criminal charges, and we can help you. Call today for an initial case consultation so we can learn more about your situation and advise you on the best course of action.