Last updated November 2025
Manslaughter is one of Florida’s most serious violent crime charges, often filed when prosecutors can’t prove murder but want severe penalties. A conviction can mean years in prison and lifelong consequences.
As a Fort Lauderdale criminal defense attorney and former prosecutor, I’ve defended homicide-related cases across South Florida, and I know how manslaughter charges are built — and how to fight them.
📜 Florida Law on Manslaughter
Under Florida Statute §782.07, manslaughter is the unlawful killing of another person without premeditation. It can be charged as:
Voluntary manslaughter: Intentional act without premeditation (e.g., heat of passion).
Involuntary manslaughter: Unintentional killing from culpable negligence.
DUI manslaughter: Causing death while driving under the influence.
👉 Related: Learn More About Aggravated Assault in Florida
🚨 Penalties
Second-degree felony: Up to 15 years in prison, $10,000 fine
First-degree felony (if victim is child, elderly, disabled, or law enforcement officer): Up to 30 years in prison
DUI manslaughter: Mandatory minimum 4 years in prison
🛡️ Defense Strategies
Self-defense / Stand Your Ground — A killing may be justified if you reasonably feared imminent harm.
Accident without culpable negligence — Ordinary negligence is not enough; the State must prove gross negligence.
Identity disputes — Was your client the actual cause of death?
Suppression of statements — Miranda or interrogation errors can exclude damaging admissions.
Challenging causation in DUI manslaughter — If impairment was not the proximate cause, the case may weaken.
📣 Why Early Defense Matters
Manslaughter charges are complex and high stakes. Building a defense early — before charges are finalized — often creates leverage to reduce or dismiss charges.
👉 Facing manslaughter charges in Florida? Call today for a free consultation.
👉 Learn more about our Fort Lauderdale Criminal Defense Services
🚨 Florida Manslaughter Penalties: Prison Terms & Fines
1) What is the sentence for manslaughter in Florida?
Typically up to 15 years, but enhancements can increase this to 30 years.
2) Is DUI manslaughter different from regular manslaughter?
Yes. DUI manslaughter carries a mandatory minimum 4 years in prison.
3) Can self-defense apply to manslaughter?
Yes. Florida’s Stand Your Ground law applies to manslaughter charges.
4) What’s the difference between voluntary and involuntary manslaughter?
Voluntary involves intent without premeditation; involuntary involves negligence.
5) Can manslaughter charges be reduced?
Yes. Depending on the evidence, charges can sometimes be reduced to lesser offenses or dismissed.