What is DUI manslaughter in Florida?

Under Florida Statutes § 316.193, DUI manslaughter occurs when a person drives under the influence of alcohol or drugs and causes or contributes to the death of another person or unborn child.

What are the penalties for DUI manslaughter in Florida?

DUI manslaughter is typically a second-degree felony punishable by up to 15 years in prison, a $10,000 fine, and permanent driver’s license revocation. Leaving the scene elevates it to a first-degree felony with up to 30 years in prison.

Is there a mandatory minimum sentence for DUI manslaughter in Florida?

Yes. Florida law mandates a minimum 4-year prison term upon conviction for DUI manslaughter.

Will I lose my driver’s license if convicted of DUI manslaughter?

Yes. A DUI manslaughter conviction results in permanent driver’s license revocation, though hardship reinstatement may be possible after 5 years if certain conditions are met.

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🚨 DUI Manslaughter in Florida: What You Need to Know

Last updated November 2025

A charge of DUI manslaughter in Florida is one of the most serious offenses under state law. It means prosecutors believe you caused another person’s death while driving under the influence — and it carries life-changing consequences.

📜 How Florida Defines DUI Manslaughter

Under Florida Statutes § 316.193, DUI manslaughter occurs when:

You are driving or in actual physical control of a vehicle,
Your normal faculties are impaired by alcohol or drugs, or your BAC is 0.08 or higher, and
Your actions cause or contribute to the death of another person or unborn child.

⚖️ Penalties for DUI Manslaughter in Florida

Second-Degree Felony — Up to 15 years in prison, $10,000 fine, and permanent driver’s license revocation
First-Degree Felony — If you leave the scene, up to 30 years in prison and a $10,000 fine

Additional consequences:

Mandatory minimum prison time
Restitution to victims’ families
Permanent felony record

🛡️ Possible Defenses

An experienced DUI manslaughter defense lawyer may challenge:

Causation — whether your driving actually caused the death
Sobriety testing — accuracy of breath or blood tests
Procedural errors — improper collection or storage of evidence
Violation of rights — unlawful traffic stop or arrest

🚨 Why Early Legal Action Matters

DUI manslaughter cases are aggressively prosecuted in Florida. Early intervention by a defense attorney can:

Preserve critical evidence
Retain accident reconstruction experts
Negotiate with prosecutors before charges are finalized

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Is DUI manslaughter a mandatory prison sentence in Florida?

Yes — Florida law requires a minimum 4-year prison term upon conviction.

Can DUI manslaughter charges be reduced?

Yes, in some cases they may be reduced to vehicular homicide or DUI with serious bodily injury.

Will I lose my license permanently?

Yes — DUI manslaughter convictions result in permanent revocation, though hardship reinstatement may be possible after 5 years.

How is DUI manslaughter different from vehicular homicide?

Vehicular homicide doesn’t require proof of intoxication; DUI manslaughter does.

Do I need a specialized DUI manslaughter attorney?

Absolutely. These cases require deep knowledge of both DUI defense and homicide law.

📍Facing DUI Manslaughter Charges?

If you’ve been charged, contact an experienced Florida DUI manslaughter attorney immediately. The earlier your defense begins, the better your chances.