Clearwater Murder Defense Attorney

Manslaughter Defense Lawyer in Clearwater

Criminal homicide is the willful killing of one human being by another. Murder and manslaughter are two types of criminal homicide. In Florida, first degree murder is charged by grand jury indictment and the State typically proceeds under one of two theories:

• (1) the unlawful killing was committed with premeditation; or
• (2) it was occurred during the commission of another felony offense. Depending on the circumstances, the State may elect to seek the penalty.

Second degree murder is charged by information and the State will typically opt for this charge where the unlawful killing was done with a "depraved heart" and without regard for human life. Manslaughter is typically charged when the killing results from an act demonstrating criminal negligence or extreme recklessness. Manslaughter often times occurs in the "heat of passion".

Investigating Your Manslaughter or Murder Case

As a former state prosecutor, Attorney Timothy Hessinger has a keen understanding of how prosecutors will build their case against you and will take immediate action in defending your case. We will do our own full investigation by reviewing the State's evidence, interviewing witnesses, and visiting the crime scene, if necessary. There may, for example, be a viable self defense issue.

Although rare, it may be that you have been wrongfully accused based on witness misidentification. Insanity may be a viable defense in situations where the accused suffered from a mental infirmity that prevented them from recognizing that thier actions were wrong. With our many years of expertise trying cases all over the area, we are able to provide you with the aggressive representation you need to defend your case.