Murder Defense Lawyer in West Palm Beach, Florida

Tenacious Defense for the Accused – Call (561) 902-1122

If you have been arrested or are being investigated for murder, you know that your future and freedom is in serious danger. Murder is the most severe form of criminal homicide in Florida and can expose you to the possibility of life imprisonment upon conviction – or worse, the death penalty. With stakes this high, you need a fighter in your corner who can contest the evidence against you and ensure that your rights are protected. You need the aggressive West Palm Beach criminal defense attorney from the Law Offices of Greg Rosenfeld, P.A. on your side.

Our firm’s founding advocate, Attorney Greg Rosenfeld, has defended countless clients against a wide range of criminal charges and can provide the zealous representation you need to level the playing field against the prosecution’s claims. Backed by a proven record of case victories and unanimously positive client feedback, we have the skills and knowledge to protect your freedom.

Understanding First Degree vs. Second Degree Murder in Florida

Murder charges in Florida are charged under various “degrees” based on the circumstances surrounding the homicide in question. While killings that are caused through recklessness or carelessness may be charged as the lesser offense of manslaughter, murders are intentional acts that may or may not be premeditated. First-degree murder, the most serious type of murder, is charged when a person carries out a planned killing of another person, commits a murder during the commission of a felony, or commits a killing during a specified drug dealing offense.

In Florida, a conviction of first-degree murder can carry:

• The death penalty, or
• Life imprisonment without parole

Prosecutors may charge a defendant with second-degree murder if the killing lacked premeditation or planning but instead involved a disregard for human life, or if the defendant acted as an accomplice to felony murder. Unlike first degree murder, second-degree murder does not necessarily require the prosecution to prove the defendant’s intent to kill.

A conviction of second-degree murder can carry the following penalties:

• A minimum of 16 ¾ years – life imprisonment
• Possible lifetime probation
• Up to $10,000 in fines