A DUI manslaughter charge in Florida is among the most serious criminal allegations a person can face. The consequences extend far beyond the courtroom, impacting your freedom, reputation, and future. At The Sombathy Law Firm, we understand the weight of these cases and provide the focused, strategic defense necessary to challenge the evidence, protect your rights, and pursue the best possible outcome.
If you’ve been arrested for DUI manslaughter in Panama City or Panama City Beach, contact us right away. Early intervention by an experienced defense attorney can make a significant difference in your case.
What Is DUI Manslaughter in Florida?
Under Florida Statute § 316.193(3)(c)(3), DUI manslaughter occurs when:
- A person operates a motor vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs; and
- As a result of that operation, it causes the death of another person or an unborn child
To secure a conviction, the prosecution must prove both impairment and causation beyond a reasonable doubt. This means showing that the driver was legally intoxicated or under the influence, and that their actions directly caused the fatal crash.
A person can be charged with DUI manslaughter even if the death was unintentional. Intent is not required for conviction.
Legal Elements Required for a DUI Manslaughter Charge
To meet the legal requirements for DUI manslaughter, the State must establish:
- The Defendant Was Driving or in Actual Physical Control of a Vehicle: This includes being behind the wheel with the ability to operate the vehicle, even if not actively driving at the time.
- The Defendant Was Impaired: A blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or evidence of impaired faculties due to alcohol, controlled substances, or prescription drugs
- Causation of Death: The impaired driving must be the proximate cause of another person’s death
Penalties for DUI Manslaughter
DUI manslaughter is a second-degree felony, punishable by:
- Up to 15 years in prison
- $10,000 in fines
- Permanent revocation of a driver’s license
- Mandatory minimum of four years in prison
However, if the driver fails to render aid or leaves the scene of the accident, the charge becomes a first-degree felony, punishable by:
- Up to 30 years in prison
- A minimum of four years mandatory prison time
- Enhanced sentencing for aggravating circumstances
These charges also carry long-term consequences beyond prison time, including:
- A permanent felony record
- Barriers to employment and housing
- Loss of civil rights, including firearm ownership
- Potential wrongful death civil lawsuits
Possible Defense Strategies for DUI Manslaughter
Each DUI manslaughter case presents unique facts and legal issues. At The Sombathy Law Firm, we evaluate every angle to build the strongest possible defense. Common strategies include:
Challenging Impairment Evidence
Blood and breath test results may be invalid due to:
- Improper calibration of testing devices
- Contaminated or improperly stored samples
- Unlawful testing procedures or chain-of-custody errors
We scrutinize whether the testing met all legal and scientific standards.
Disputing Causation
Even if impairment is established, the prosecution must prove it caused the fatal crash. If other factors—such as road hazards, weather, or the victim’s own actions—played a role, causation may be challenged.
Constitutional Violations
If police violated your constitutional rights (such as stopping you without probable cause or failing to advise you of your rights), key evidence may be suppressed.
Accident Reconstruction
We often work with experts to reconstruct the crash and challenge the State’s version of events. This can highlight inconsistencies or alternative causes of the fatality.
Medical Conditions or Other Explanations
Some signs of impairment may be due to medical issues, fatigue, or anxiety, rather than alcohol or drug use. If field sobriety test results were misinterpreted, this could be a critical defense angle.
Why Choose The Sombathy Law Firm
DUI manslaughter charges are incredibly serious. The prosecution will pursue them aggressively, and you need an equally prepared defense attorney. At The Sombathy Law Firm, we bring extensive experience in DUI and felony defense to every case. We understand how to dissect toxicology reports, challenge expert testimony, and negotiate effectively with prosecutors when appropriate.
If you’ve been accused of DUI manslaughter in Panama City or Panama City Beach, the time to act is now. Every moment counts when building a defense.
Contact The Sombathy Law Firm today for a confidential consultation to discuss your case and legal options.
