Criminal Defense

Third-Degree Murder

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Before a person can be convicted of third-degree murder in Florida, the prosecution must prove the following three things beyond a reasonable doubt:

  1. The victim is dead.
  2. a. The victim’s death occurred as a consequence of and while the accused individual was engaged in the commission of a crime; or
    b. The victim’s death occurred as a consequence of and while the accused was attempting to commit a crime; or
    c. The victim’s death occurred as a consequence of and while the accused, or an accomplice, was escaping from the immediate scene of the crime.
  3. a. The accused person was the one who actually killed the victim; or
    b. The victim was killed by a person other than the accused, but both the accused and the person who actually killed the victim were principals in the commission of the crime.

It is not necessary for the prosecution to prove that the killing of the victim was perpetrated with a design to effect death. Also check more details about Second-Degree Murder

Why Choose the Firm

Why Choose Ronald S. Chapman, P.A.?

  • I Know How Palm Beach Courts Work — Having defended clients for decades in Palm Beach County, I know how the judges and prosecutors think and operate.
  • Highly Reviewed & Rated — Highly rated on Google, 5-star rating on respected legal website Avvo. See some of our client reviews.
  • Respected in the Legal Community — Written about in “The Globe” by a jury foreman for his excellent defense.
  • Privacy — I safeguard your identity, the details of your case, and our strategy to protect your reputation.
  • Confidential Case Assessment — During your phone assessment, I will listen to you and help you determine your next steps.
  • Highly Responsive — I pride myself on fast response times when communicating with our clients. I will never let your questions or concerns go unaddressed.
  • No Case Is Too Difficult or Complex — This is where tenacity and knowledge of the law matter. I do what is necessary, even in complex cases.
  • Straight Shooters — Your situation requires honesty from both you and me. We’ll tell you what you need to know, not necessarily what you want to hear. Our approach focuses on efficiency and speed to resolve cases as quickly as possible to get your life back to normal sooner.
  • Caring & Compassionate (Truly) — I truly understand the complications criminal charges can bring upon individuals and their families.
  • I Keep You Updated — Transparency is key. I want you to know what’s happening with your case at all points in the process.
  • Experienced — With over 36 years of experience and 500 jury trials and hearings, I have defended clients who have found themselves in situations probably just like yours.

Charged With a Crime? Talk to a Defense Attorney.

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