DUI Manslaughter Attorney in Orlando, FL

DUI manslaughter charges represent one of the most serious allegations in Florida criminal law, carrying mandatory minimum prison sentences and life-altering consequences for those convicted. When alcohol or drug impairment leads to a fatal accident, the state aggressively pursues these second-degree felony charges, making immediate legal representation essential for protecting your rights and future.

Fighter Law’s Board Certified Orlando criminal defense attorneys provide experienced representation for individuals facing DUI manslaughter charges throughout Orlando and Central Florida. Our legal team understands the complex nature of these cases and works tirelessly to challenge the prosecution’s evidence while building a comprehensive defense strategy tailored to your unique circumstances.

Understanding DUI Manslaughter in Florida

Florida Statute 316.193 defines DUI manslaughter as the killing of a human being caused by the operation of a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The prosecution must prove you were driving or in actual physical control of a vehicle, that your normal faculties were impaired or your blood alcohol level was 0.08% or higher, and that your impaired driving caused or contributed to another person’s death.

DUI manslaughter carries severe penalties, including a mandatory minimum of four years in prison and up to 15 years imprisonment for second-degree felony convictions. Additional consequences include permanent license revocation, substantial fines, lengthy probation periods, and a permanent felony record. These charges also trigger Florida’s vehicular homicide statutes, potentially adding enhanced penalties for defendants with prior DUI convictions.

Critical Defense Strategies for DUI Manslaughter Cases

Building an effective defense against DUI manslaughter charges requires a thorough investigation and aggressive advocacy to protect your constitutional rights. Experienced Orlando DUI manslaughter lawyer examine every aspect of the case to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence and develop compelling alternative theories.

Challenging Causation and Impairment Evidence

A successful DUI manslaughter defense often centers on challenging the prosecution’s ability to prove causation and impairment beyond a reasonable doubt. Our legal team works with accident reconstruction professionals and toxicology experts to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident and identify alternative causes for the accident.

Questioning Field Sobriety and Chemical Test Results

Law enforcement officers must follow strict procedures when conducting field sobriety tests and obtaining blood or breath samples. Improper administration of standardized field sobriety tests, equipment malfunctions, or procedural violations may invalidate chemical test results and weaken the prosecution’s case significantly.

The Importance of Expert Testimony and Investigation

DUI manslaughter cases require a comprehensive investigation and professional testimony to challenge the prosecution’s evidence effectively. Our defense team collaborates with accident reconstruction specialists, forensic toxicologists, and medical professionals to develop alternative theories and expose flaws in the state’s case.

Accident reconstruction analysis may reveal mechanical failures, road defects, or third-party negligence as contributing factors to the fatal collision. These alternative explanations can create reasonable doubt about whether impaired driving caused the victim’s death, potentially resulting in reduced charges or case dismissal.

Building Your Defense: What to Expect

When you choose Fighter Law for your DUI manslaughter defense, we begin with immediate action to preserve crucial evidence and protect your rights throughout the legal process. Our comprehensive approach addresses every aspect of your case while preparing for potential trial proceedings. Time-sensitive evidence collection and witness interviews require prompt legal intervention to achieve the best possible outcome.

Key components of our defense strategy include:

  • Detailed accident scene investigation and evidence preservation
  • Analysis of police reports, witness statements, and surveillance footage
  • Challenge of field sobriety test administration and chemical test procedures
  • Review of emergency medical records and autopsy reports for alternative causation
  • Investigation of vehicle mechanical conditions and road defects
  • Examination of law enforcement training and certification records

This thorough approach ensures we identify every potential defense while challenging the prosecution’s evidence at every stage. Each case demands individualized attention, as DUI manslaughter charges involve complex legal principles and varying factual circumstances requiring careful analysis.

Protecting Your Rights During an Investigation

DUI manslaughter investigations often begin immediately following the accident, making early legal representation crucial for protecting your constitutional rights. Law enforcement officers may attempt to obtain statements or additional evidence without proper warnings, potentially violating your Miranda rights or due process protections.

Our DUI manslaughter attorney handle all communications with investigating officers and prosecutors while ensuring proper procedures are followed throughout the investigation. We also work to prevent additional charges, such as vehicular homicide or leaving the scene of an accident, from being filed against you.

Why Choose Fighter Law for Your DUI Manslaughter Defense

Thomas Feiter and Jessica Travis bring decades of combined experience as former prosecutors turned aggressive defense advocates. Both attorneys hold Board Certified credentials in Criminal Trial Law from The Florida Bar, representing the highest level of legal achievement in Florida. Thomas Feiter was named The Florida Bar’s Board Certified Lawyer of the Year in 2015 and maintains an AV Rating as a Preeminent Lawyer, while serving as a Major in the US Army JAG Corps Reserve with deployments to Kuwait, Afghanistan, Egypt, and the UAE.

Jessica Travis began her career as an Assistant State Attorney, providing valuable insight into prosecution strategies and courtroom procedures. Her extensive litigation experience and aggressive representation style make her an invaluable asset for clients facing serious criminal charges. Together, our legal team has handled over 110 jury trials and understands what it takes to achieve favorable outcomes in complex criminal cases. Contact Fighter Law today at (407) 344-4837 or through our contact form to schedule your consultation and begin building your defense.