Understanding Legal Options When Facing Serious Charges
Authorities recently investigated a fatal shooting in Lake Worth Beach that resulted in one person’s death and another’s injury. A suspect was later taken into custody. Incidents like this highlight how quickly a person can face the most severe criminal charges possible — often before all the facts are clear.
If you or someone you care about is accused of involvement in a shooting or homicide, it’s critical to understand that being arrested does not mean being guilty. The law provides several possible defenses, and each case must be carefully evaluated on its own facts.
1. Questioning Identification and Evidence
- In any violent-crime case, one of the first questions is who actually committed the act.
- Was the suspect accurately identified, or could there be a case of mistaken identity?
- How was the evidence collected and handled?
- Are there any inconsistencies in witness statements or video footage?
- If the prosecution cannot prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the accused person was the shooter, the case may be significantly weakened.
2. Challenging Intent and State of Mind
- For a conviction of murder or manslaughter, prosecutors must show intent — that the accused meant to cause death or serious harm. The defense may argue that:
- The incident was accidental or occurred during a chaotic moment.
- There was no plan, motive, or deliberate action.
- The evidence fails to show premeditation or intent.
- If intent cannot be proven, charges could be reduced or dismissed.
3. Self-Defense and Protection of Others
- Florida law recognizes a person’s right to protect themselves or others when facing a real and immediate threat. A claim of self-defense may apply if the accused reasonably believed that using force was necessary to prevent death or great bodily harm.
- A thorough defense investigation would examine whether:
- The accused was attacked or reasonably believed they were in danger.
- The response was proportionate to the threat.
- The accused was lawfully present and not the initial aggressor.
- If self-defense is valid, the shooting may be considered legally justified.
4. Accidental Discharge or Lack of Causation
- Not every firearm injury results from intentional action. A gun might discharge accidentally during a struggle, or another individual may have fired the fatal shot. Forensic analysis can help determine whether:
- The firearm malfunctioned or was mishandled.
- The accused did not actually cause the death.
- Other circumstances contributed to the outcome.
- These factors can lead to a lesser charge or complete acquittal.
5. Violations of Constitutional Rights
- Every defendant has rights protected by the U.S. and Florida Constitutions. A strong defense often focuses on whether law enforcement respected those rights. Examples include:
- Illegal searches or seizures without a valid warrant.
- Improper interrogations or failure to read Miranda rights.
- Mishandled evidence or broken chain of custody.
- If constitutional violations occurred, key evidence could be excluded — sometimes resulting in the dismissal of charges altogether.
6. Negotiating a Reduced Charge or Alternative Outcome
- In some cases, the best path forward involves negotiation rather than trial. A defense attorney may work toward a reduced charge or a plea agreement that avoids lengthy imprisonment. Factors that can influence negotiations include:
- The defendant’s lack of prior criminal history.
- Evidence of provocation or emotional distress.
- Cooperation with law enforcement and acceptance of responsibility.
- An experienced attorney can ensure that any plea deal protects the client’s rights and long-term future.
Taking Action Early Matters
- The period immediately after an arrest is critical. Witnesses forget details, evidence can be lost, and early statements can be misunderstood. Contacting a qualified defense lawyer as soon as possible allows the legal team to:
- Secure and review all available evidence.
- Identify constitutional violations.
- Begin building a factual and legal defense strategy.
- The sooner an attorney is involved, the stronger the defense can become.
Work With an Experienced Florida Defense Attorney
Violent-crime allegations carry serious consequences — from decades in prison to lifelong stigma. The defense you choose can change the course of your life. Rabideau Law provides the skill, discretion, and commitment necessary to protect your rights and fight for your freedom.
If you or someone you know is charged with homicide, aggravated assault, or any firearm-related offense, contact Rabideau Law today for a confidential consultation.
- Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is unique, and outcomes depend on individual facts and circumstances.
- Contact Rabideau Law today to discuss your case confidentially.
Visit: https://rabideaulaw.com/
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can mental illness be used as a defense in a criminal case in Florida?
Yes. If a defendant was suffering from a severe mental illness at the time of the alleged offense and could not understand the nature or wrongfulness of their actions, a criminal defense attorney may assert an insanity defense under Florida law. This defense requires expert psychiatric evaluation and must meet strict legal standards.
2. What is the difference between the Baker Act and an insanity defense?
The Baker Act allows for involuntary mental health evaluation and treatment when someone poses a danger to themselves or others. It is not a legal defense. The insanity defense is a courtroom strategy that argues the defendant was legally insane at the time of the offense. The Baker Act may be used during or after arrest, but it does not determine guilt or innocence.
3. What happens if a defendant is found incompetent to stand trial?
If the court finds that a defendant does not understand the legal proceedings or cannot assist their attorney, they may be declared incompetent to stand trial. In this case, the court will order treatment—often in a secure mental health facility—until competency is restored.
4. Can substance abuse be considered in a criminal defense under the Marchman Act?
The Marchman Act addresses serious substance abuse issues and allows for involuntary treatment, but it is not itself a criminal defense. However, if drug or alcohol impairment significantly affected the defendant’s mental state, it may be used to support arguments for reduced charges, mitigation, or court-ordered treatment instead of prison.
5. What penalties could someone face if convicted of attempted murder in Florida?
Attempted first-degree murder in Florida is a life felony, carrying penalties of up to life in prison. However, if mental illness or lack of intent can be demonstrated, the charges or sentencing may be reduced. A skilled defense attorney may argue for alternative outcomes such as psychiatric treatment.
6. Why is it important to have a defense attorney experienced in mental health-related cases?
Cases involving mental illness are highly complex and require an attorney who understands both legal strategy and clinical evaluation. An experienced lawyer will coordinate psychiatric assessments, challenge the prosecution’s claims of intent, and fight for outcomes that prioritize treatment and justice.
Call Today
If you or a loved one has been arrested or charged with a crime in Florida, you need strong legal representation on your side to protect your future. The stakes are high and a conviction can haunt you for life. Don’t leave your fate in the hands of an overworked public defender. Hire a former prosecutor who knows how to get charges reduced or dismissed.
At The Law Offices of Michael T. Rabideau, we provide aggressive and strategic criminal defense for clients across South Florida. As a former Assistant State Attorney, founder Michael Rabideau knows the ins and outs of the local justice system and how to build an effective defense.
With over 20 years of experience exclusively defending the accused, we have successfully represented hundreds of clients facing charges such as:
— Assault & Battery
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__ Federal Crimes
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At The Law Offices of Michael T. Rabideau, we conduct thorough investigations, employ expert witnesses, leverage technical defenses, negotiate with prosecutors, and handle every aspect of the pretrial and trial process. We are not afraid to take your case to trial if it is in your best interest.
Don’t Leave Your Future to Chance – Schedule a Free Consultation Today
We also understand the far-reaching consequences of criminal charges, even for first-time offenders. That is why we work tirelessly both in and out of the courtroom to protect your rights and limit the impact on your record.
A customized defense strategy can make all the difference between a guilty verdict and a dismissal. Don’t leave your future up to chance or assume you have no options. Schedule a free consultation today with The Law Offices of Michael T. Rabideau to discuss your situation confidentially with an experienced criminal defense attorney.
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We make our services accessible by offering reasonable rates as well as personalized monthly payment plans to fit your budget. We also accommodate evening and weekend appointments at all three of our offices in West Palm Beach, Wellington and Boca Raton.
Don’t Wait to Get the Representation You Deserve
The Law Offices of Michael T. Rabideau are here for you when you need us most. Our sole focus is protecting your rights and resolving your criminal case as favorably as possible. Don’t go through this fight alone. With an aggressive defense lawyer on your side, you can avoid harsh penalties so this mistake doesn’t ruin your entire future.
