Imagine driving home after a night out with friends. Maybe you had a couple of drinks, maybe none at all, and in an instant, everything changes.
There’s an accident. Someone is seriously hurt, or worse, killed. Within hours, you’re under investigation, arrested, and suddenly facing one of the most serious criminal charges under Florida law: DUI manslaughter.
If this is happening to you or someone you love, I want you to know this: you are not alone.
These cases are overwhelming, confusing, and emotionally devastating. You may be feeling guilt, fear, confusion, or disbelief that you’re even being charged. But there is a path forward, and it starts with understanding what you’re up against and how the right defense can make all the difference.
What Is DUI Manslaughter in Florida?
Under Florida Statute §316.193(3)(c)3, DUI manslaughter occurs when a person is driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs and, as a result, causes the death of another person or unborn child.
To be charged, the state must allege:
- You were driving a vehicle;
- You were under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances to the extent your normal faculties were impaired or your blood alcohol content (BAC) was .08 or higher; and
- Your driving caused or contributed to a fatal accident.
Even if the accident was unintentional, and even if you don’t believe you were impaired, you can still be charged if prosecutors believe they can prove these elements.
What Are the Penalties for DUI Manslaughter in West Palm Beach Florida?
DUI manslaughter is classified as a second-degree felony in Florida. The consequences are severe and life-changing:
- Up to 15 years in prison
- Up to $10,000 in fines
- Permanent driver’s license revocation
- Mandatory probation, community service, and substance abuse evaluation
- A mandatory minimum sentence of 4 years in prison (even for first-time offenders)
In cases where the accused fails to render aid or leaves the scene, the charge may be enhanced to a first-degree felony, punishable by up to 30 years in prison.
This is why every decision you make after being charged can change the course of your life. That starts with the lawyer you choose.
Possible Defense Strategies
Every DUI manslaughter case is different. The facts matter. The science matters. And how your defense is handled from the very beginning can dramatically affect the outcome.
Some of the most effective strategies include:
- Challenging the BAC Results
- Breath and blood testing devices must be properly calibrated, maintained, and operated. If the test results were flawed or the protocols were violated, the evidence may be suppressed.
- Arguing Lack of Impairment
If your driving behavior, speech, and coordination did not show signs of impairment, we may use witness testimony, bodycam footage, or surveillance video to challenge the allegation that you were under the influence at all.
Causation Defense
Just because you were driving and someone died doesn’t automatically mean your actions caused the death. In some cases, external factors, like road conditions or another driver’s actions, may have contributed more significantly to the accident.
Improper Police Procedure
From the moment law enforcement begins their investigation, your rights must be protected. If you were denied access to an attorney, improperly questioned, or illegally stopped, these could form the basis of a powerful defense.
A Moment Can Change Everything – But It Doesn’t Have to Define You
I’ve defended clients in DUI manslaughter cases all across Florida, from Miami and West Palm Beach to Orlando, Tampa, and beyond. Many of these clients never had a criminal record. They were nurses, veterans, business owners, college students, etc. Good people who never imagined they’d be facing prison time.
If you’re reading this, you may be feeling hopeless.
But here’s what I want you to know: being charged is not the same as being convicted. You have the right to defend yourself. You have the right to challenge the evidence. And you have the right to be represented by someone who knows how to fight these cases with experience, strategy, and compassion.
Take the First Step with a West Palm Beach Defense Attorney
DUI manslaughter charges are devastating, but you don’t have to face them alone. If you or someone you love is under investigation or has been arrested in Florida, don’t wait to get help.
The sooner you speak with a skilled criminal defense attorney, the sooner you can begin building a defense that protects your freedom, your future, and your story.
Contact my office for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. I’ve spent years standing beside people in their darkest moments and helping them find a way forward.
Remember – arrests are common in Florida, the legal consequences are serious, and having a knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer is essential to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome.
If you were charged with a serious crime in West Palm Beach or anywhere in the state of Florida, please schedule a free consultation with <a href=”https://pakettlaw.com/”>The Pakett Law Group</a>. You can call 561-318-0531 or email us here.
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<span style=”color: #1a99ed;”><strong>The Pakett Law Group, PA is committed to providing our clients with the highest quality representation. With over a decade of legal experience, West Palm Beach criminal defense lawyer Brian T. Pakett and his team of West Palm Beach criminal lawyers possess a comprehensive understanding of Florida criminal law – which can benefit you in your time of need. </strong></span>
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