Fort Lauderdale Violent Crime & Homicide Defense Attorney
Defending the Most Serious Charges Across South Florida
If you’ve been arrested or are under investigation for a violent crime or homicide offense in Fort Lauderdale or anywhere in South Florida, you must speak with a criminal defense attorney immediately. These charges carry severe penalties, including mandatory prison time, life sentences, and in some cases, the death penalty. ⚖️
But being charged does not mean you’re guilty. Many violent crime cases are defensible, especially with the right strategy and representation. At Michael White, P.A., we understand what’s at stake—and we fight to protect your rights, freedom, and future.
Homicide Charges in Florida: What you Need to Know
- First-Degree Murder (Fla. Stat. § 782.04) – Intentional and premeditated killing; punishable by life in prison or the death penalty
- Second-Degree Murder – Intentional but not premeditated; punishable by up to life in prison
- Manslaughter (Fla. Stat. § 782.07) – Killing without intent, often from reckless or negligent behavior
- Aggravated Manslaughter – Manslaughter involving a child, elderly person, disabled adult, or law enforcement officer
- Vehicular Homicide (Fla. Stat. § 782.071) – Causing a death through reckless driving
- DUI Manslaughter (Fla. Stat. § 316.193) – Causing a death while driving under the influence
Homicide is the most serious category of violent crime under Florida law. It includes both intentional killings and deaths resulting from reckless or negligent actions.
We defend clients charged with all types of homicide offenses, including:
📊 Violent Crime & Homicide Statistics in Florida
- 🔴 Florida ranked 3rd in the U.S. for violent crime arrests in 2023, according to FBI data, with over 81,000 violent offenses reported statewide.
- ⚖️ Assault and battery make up over 70% of all violent crime arrests in Florida.
- 🏛️ In Broward County alone, there were over 6,000 violent crime cases filed in 2023, including aggravated battery, robbery, and murder.
- 🚨 The clearance rate (cases ending in arrest or charge) for homicides in South Florida remains below 65%, which means many people are wrongfully arrested or charged prematurely.
- 🍾 DUI manslaughter charges increased 9% across South Florida in the last year due to expanded patrols and roadside blood tests.
- 🧑⚖️ In Florida, over 90% of violent crime convictions result in incarceration, making early defense strategy essential to avoiding jail or prison.
⚖️ Additional Violent Crime Charges We Handle
Our firm also defends clients charged with a wide range of non-homicide violent offenses, including:
- Simple Assault – Fla. Stat. § 784.011
- Aggravated Assault – Fla. Stat. § 784.021
- Simple Battery – Fla. Stat. § 784.03
- Aggravated Battery – Fla. Stat. § 784.045
- Felony Battery – Fla. Stat. § 784.041
- Domestic Violence – Fla. Stat. § 741.28
- Culpable Negligence – Fla. Stat. § 784.05
- Resisting Arrest (with or without violence) – Fla. Stat. §§ 843.01 & 843.02
Whether your case involves a physical fight, domestic dispute, road rage, or a tragic accident — we’ll investigate every detail, challenge the evidence, and build a defense that gives you the best possible chance in court.
⛓️ What Are the Penalties for Violent Crime and Homicide?
Penalties vary based on the charge but can include:
- 🏛️ Life imprisonment or even capital punishment (for homicide)
- 🚔 Mandatory prison or jail time
- 📝 Long-term probation or parole
- ❌ Loss of civil rights (like voting or firearm ownership)
- 💼 Collateral consequences for your career, housing, and immigration status
🧠 Possible Defenses to Violent Crime & Homicide Charges
Every case is different, but we frequently explore defenses such as:
- Self-defense or Stand Your Ground
- Defense of others
- Lack of intent
- Accidental or misidentified involvement
- Illegal search or seizure
- Unreliable witness testimony
👨⚖️ Former Prosecutor. Now Your Defense Attorney.
Attorney Michael White brings a prosecutor’s insight to every case he defends. He understands how the State builds homicide and violent crime cases—and how to find the weaknesses in their approach.
From pre-trial negotiations to courtroom litigation, we don’t back down. We fight to reduce or dismiss charges, suppress bad evidence, and protect your future.
📞 Free Consultations Available – Call Today
Your future could depend on what you do right now. If you’re facing violent crime or homicide charges in Fort Lauderdale, don’t delay.
📱 Call 954-613-8142 or use our online form to schedule a free, confidential consultation with Michael White, P.A. today.
❓ FAQ: Homicide and Violent Crimes in Florida
🔹 What’s the difference between murder and manslaughter in Florida?
False accusations happen. We investigate inconsistencies, expose lies, and use forensic evidence, surveillance, or witness credibility issues to build your defense.
🔹 Can I face the death penalty for a homicide charge?
Yes. First-degree murder is punishable by life imprisonment or capital punishment in Florida. The death penalty applies only in specific aggravated cases.
🔹 What is Stand Your Ground and can it help me?
Florida’s Stand Your Ground law allows you to use deadly force without retreating if you reasonably believe your life is in danger. It can serve as a complete defense to homicide or battery charges.
🔹 Can someone be charged with homicide after a car accident?
False accusations happen. We investigate inconsistencies, expose lies, and use forensic evidence, surveillance, or witness credibility issues to build your defense.
🔹 What happens if I’m falsely accused of a violent crime?
False accusations happen. We investigate inconsistencies, expose lies, and use forensic evidence, surveillance, or witness credibility issues to build your defense.
