Being accused of causing someone’s death in a traffic accident is devastating. In addition to the emotional toll, vehicular manslaughter charges in Florida carry severe legal penalties that can take away your freedom, your license, and your future.
At DeGraff Hicks Law Group, our Cocoa Beach vehicular manslaughter lawyers understand the seriousness of these cases and how overwhelming they can feel. Our role is to provide strong, experienced legal defense while guiding you through one of the most difficult times in your life.
If you’ve been charged with vehicular manslaughter in Cocoa Beach or Brevard County, call our Cocoa Beach violent crimes lawyer at (321) 44-SHARK today.
What is Vehicular Manslaughter?
In Florida, vehicular manslaughter—legally referred to as “vehicular homicide”—is defined as the killing of another person caused by the reckless operation of a motor vehicle【】.
It’s not enough that an accident occurred—the prosecution must prove that the driver operated the vehicle in a manner likely to cause death or great bodily harm.
Because driving is something almost everyone does daily, these charges can arise from a wide range of circumstances, from momentary lapses in judgment to more serious reckless behavior. Regardless of the situation, prosecutors pursue these cases aggressively.
What Are the Types of Vehicular Manslaughter Offenses?
Common forms of vehicular manslaughter in Florida include:
- Reckless driving — Driving with willful or wanton disregard for safety, leading to a fatal crash.
- Gross negligence — Conduct showing extreme carelessness beyond ordinary negligence.
- DUI-related vehicular manslaughter — When the driver is under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the crash.
DUI-related cases are often treated the harshest, as Florida imposes mandatory minimum prison sentences if a death results from impaired driving.
What Qualifies as Vehicular Manslaughter, and How is it Different from Other Offenses?
Vehicular manslaughter differs from other driving offenses because of the result—a death caused by reckless operation of a vehicle. While reckless driving itself is a serious charge, it becomes vehicular manslaughter when someone dies as a result.
This is different from crimes like murder or voluntary manslaughter, which require proof of intent to kill. Vehicular manslaughter does not require intent—only proof that the driving was reckless enough to create a high risk of death or serious harm.
How Can a Defense Lawyer Help in a Vehicular Manslaughter Case?
These cases are highly technical and often rely on accident reconstruction, expert testimony, and complex evidence.
A Cocoa Beach vehicular manslaughter lawyer can:
- Challenge accident reconstruction reports to show the state’s version of events may be flawed.
- Analyze causation — Did the alleged reckless driving actually cause the death, or were other factors at play?
- Scrutinize DUI evidence — Was blood alcohol testing performed properly? Were results accurate?
- Identify weaknesses in witness testimony or inconsistencies in the state’s case.
At DeGraff Hicks Law Group, our Cocoa Beach vehicular manslaughter lawyers partner with accident reconstruction specialists and investigators to build the strongest possible defense.
Common Defenses Against Vehicular Manslaughter Charges
Potential defenses include:
- Challenging accident reconstruction — Demonstrating that the crash occurred differently than prosecutors claim.
- Disputing causation — Showing the death was caused by another driver, mechanical failure, or unforeseen circumstances.
- Challenging DUI evidence — Breath or blood tests may be inaccurate or improperly administered.
- Lack of recklessness — Arguing the driving was negligent but not reckless enough to meet the legal standard.
Every case is unique, but a strong defense often comes down to creating doubt about causation and intent.
Potential Consequences of a Vehicular Manslaughter Conviction
The penalties for vehicular manslaughter in Florida are severe, including:
- Up to 15 years in prison — or up to 30 years if the driver left the scene of the accident.
- Fines of up to $10,000.
- Driver’s license suspension or permanent revocation.
- Mandatory minimum sentences in DUI-related cases.
- Permanent felony record that impacts employment, housing, and reputation.
Beyond the legal consequences, these charges can carry deep personal and emotional impacts that last a lifetime. That is why it is urgent to contact a skilled Cocoa Beach vehicular manslaughter lawyer to start building your defense.
Is it Possible to Have Vehicular Manslaughter Charges Reduced or Dismissed?
Yes. While challenging, charges can sometimes be reduced or dismissed through:
- Plea negotiations to lesser charges like reckless driving.
- Exposing weaknesses in accident reconstruction or DUI testing.
- Highlighting lack of evidence tying alleged recklessness directly to the death.
- Arguing procedural violations if evidence was improperly collected.
Our Cocoa Beach vehicular manslaughter lawyers evaluate every option to seek the best possible outcome for your case.
Our Approach to Vehicular Manslaughter Defense
We believe the best defense starts with a deep understanding of the facts.
That’s why our Cocoa Beach vehicular manslaughter lawyers:
- Conduct a comprehensive review of all accident reports, forensic evidence, and witness testimony.
- Work with independent experts to analyze reconstruction reports and question state evidence.
- Identify every potential weakness in the prosecution’s case.
From there, our Cocoa Beach vehicular manslaughter lawyers develop strategic defense strategies tailored to the circumstances of your case—whether that means preparing for trial or negotiating for reduced charges.
What Should I Do If I Have Been Arrested for Vehicular Manslaughter?
If you’ve been arrested, you should:
- Exercise your right to remain silent — Anything you say can be used against you.
- Request an attorney immediately — Legal representation is critical from the very beginning.
- Avoid discussing your case with anyone except your lawyer.
The decisions you make early on can dramatically affect the outcome. Call our Cocoa Beach vehicular manslaughter lawyers at DeGraff Hicks Law Group at (321) 44-SHARK as soon as possible to protect your rights.
Why Choose DeGraff Hicks Law Group for Your Vehicular Manslaughter Defense?
Vehicular manslaughter charges carry life-changing consequences—our Cocoa Beach vehicular manslaughter lawyers have the skill and determination to defend your rights and your future.
Specialized Vehicular Manslaughter Defense
We understand the complexity of these cases and the unique challenges involved in defending them. Our team has the knowledge and experience to confront both technical evidence and emotional arguments in court.
Experienced Cocoa Beach Vehicular Manslaughter Lawyers
Our attorneys have successfully defended clients in vehicular homicide and related cases. We know how prosecutors build their arguments, and we know how to fight back effectively.
Client-Centered Approach
Facing a vehicular manslaughter charge is overwhelming, both legally and emotionally. Our Cocoa Beach vehicular manslaughter lawyers provide compassionate guidance, clear communication, and personal attention so you’re never left in the dark about your case.
Protect Your Freedom—Start Your Defense With a Cocoa Beach Vehicular Manslaughter Lawyer Today
Vehicular manslaughter charges can change your life forever, but being accused does not mean you are guilty.
With experienced legal representation from our Cocoa Beach manslaughter lawyers, you can challenge the evidence, protect your rights, and fight for your future.
At DeGraff Hicks Law Group, we are here to stand by you every step of the way. Call us today at (321) 44-SHARK to schedule a confidential consultation and begin building your defense.
