Being arrested and charged with homicide can be an overwhelming and terrifying experience. The stakes could not be higher in these cases, and the consequences of a successful conviction can alter the entire course of your future. For this reason, securing the legal representation of an experienced Fort Walton Beach homicide lawyer is crucial. Don’t let a homicide charge ruin your life. Hire a homicide lawyer who can fight to protect your rights.
Since 2017, Jay Patel Attorney at Law has been fighting for the rights of clients who were charged with various types of homicide. As a former state prosecutor and deputy sheriff, Jay Patel has been on all sides of homicide cases. He can use this knowledge to offer you a strong defense in your case. Well-versed in homicide law and ready to fight, Mr. Patel can assert your rights and defend you against these charges.
Fort Walton Beach, a coastal city in Florida’s panhandle, has seen many homicide cases. At one point, it was considered one of the most dangerous cities in America thanks to an increase in these cases. Fort Walton Beach is not just a tourist destination; it is also home to thousands of residents. People who drive along Memorial Parkway NW every day may be struck and killed by a drunk driver. Others might get assaulted and left for dead in Jet Drive Park.
Homicide rates in Florida currently stand around 7.2 for every 100,000 residents. In Florida, homicide is typically defined as the illegal or unlawful killing of another person. There are several forms of homicide recognized in the state, including:
Jay Patel is a Former Prosecutor and a Former Law Enforcement Officer with the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office.
In Florida, first-degree murder is the premeditated or planned act of killing another human being. It can also be charged if a killing occurred while the offender was committing another felony. Certain examples of first-degree murder include the killing of an individual during:
The penalties for first-degree murder are severe and can include the death penalty.
In Florida, second-degree murder is defined as a dangerous act that reveals “the depraved mind” of the offender who has no regard for human life. It is also charged when a murder occurs during the commission of a felony, and the offender is an accomplice to that crime. The penalties for second-degree murder include probation, fines, and even life imprisonment.
This charge arises when a murder occurs during the commission of a non-violent felony. Penalties include prison, probation, and fines.
In Fort Walton Beach, manslaughter charges can arise when an individual takes part in any act that results in a killing by procurement or culpable negligence. Manslaughter charges that involve the use of a weapon or firearm can be upgraded to a first-degree felony.
In 2023, Okaloosa County saw a rate of 12.2 out of every 100,000 residents for deaths resulting from vehicular accidents. Vehicular homicide can arise from a situation in which an individual is killed due to the reckless driving of another, such as in the case of a drunk driver. About 32 people are killed every day in the United States from drunk driving.
At Jay Patel Attorney at Law, we can review your case and come up with a solid defense strategy to fight any homicide charge. Common strategies include:
The costs involved in hiring a homicide lawyer can vary based on several factors in your case. These can include the complexity and duration of your case, along with the experience and skill level of your attorney. However, it is important to know that the benefits of hiring a Fort Walton Beach homicide attorney can far outweigh the consequences of a homicide charge if you are convicted.
Yes, you may be charged with homicide resulting from a case of child abuse. In Florida, one of the many homicide charges includes aggravated child abuse resulting in death. If a child dies after being reasonably healthy, a medical review may show that abuse was their cause of death. If so, the alleged offender, such as a parent, grandparent, or other caretaker, may be charged with homicide.
When you are charged with homicide in Fort Walton Beach, it’s important to hire a homicide lawyer who can defend you and your future from the possible consequences of a successful conviction. Your attorney can:
Per Florida’s homicide laws, a homicide case is considered excusable in certain situations. One such situation might include a death that is caused by accident or misfortune while the alleged offender is taking part in a lawful act, meaning they have no illegal or unlawful intent. For example, a roofer who throws a package of shingles down from above and accidentally strikes a passerby might be accused of excusable homicide.
If you have been arrested and charged with any form of homicide in Fort Walton Beach, Florida, your very future is in danger. When you hire a lawyer to defend you in a homicide case, their knowledge, skill, and advocacy can be vital when seeking the most favorable outcome available to you. At Jay Patel Attorney at Law, we want to do whatever we can to protect your future. Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation.
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