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CRIMINAL LAW

Murder Attorney

In Florida, facing first- or second-degree murder charges requires immediate intervention from an experienced attorney. Apfelbaum Law provides assistance in such serious criminal issues.

Premeditated murder and felony murder are both classified as first-degree murder in Florida. Premeditated murder involves deliberate activities that end in death, whereas felony murder occurs during particular felonies, regardless of intent, such as burglary, kidnapping, and others defined in statute.

For instance, if charged with burglary and an accomplice kills a homeowner, the individuals involved may face felony murder charges, even if they weren't directly involved in the killing.

In Florida, the penalty for first-degree murder ranges from a death sentence to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole. Defense strategies such as excusable homicide, justifiable homicide, and self-defense may provide legal recourse. Excusable homicide applies to unintentional fatalities during authorized activities, moments of rage, or abrupt conflict without the use of a deadly weapon.

Similarly, when defending oneself against a threat or felony, justified homicide applies. Self-defense, or the justified use of deadly force, requires evidence to back up your defense.

Effective use of these defenses may result in reduced charges such as manslaughter, although careful legal advice is required owing to the serious consequences. A qualified Florida criminal defense attorney can investigate and carry out these strategies tailored to your situation.

Reach out to our team

If you need assistance with a similar matter, other criminal case or have questions about any potential legal matter, please contact Apfelbaum Law for a consultation. We have offices in Port St. Lucie and Stuart, but we provide legal services throughout the Treasure Coast and Florida.

Contact Us

Port St. Lucie Office
451 SW Bethany Dr.
Suite 202
Port St. Lucie, FL 34986

Stuart Office
850 NW Federal Highway
Suite 443
Stuart, FL 34994

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