Attorney for First Degree Murder Tampa | Rocky Brancato Trial Defense

Being charged with first-degree murder in Tampa is as serious as it gets. Whether the allegation involves premeditated murder or felony murder, the penalties are extreme and the legal process is unforgiving. You need a specialized attorney that handles first degree murder cases in Tampa.

At The Brancato Law Firm, P.A., we understand how quickly a person’s future can change. Our approach is built on real courtroom experience. If you’re searching for an attorney for first degree murder in Tampa, this is not the time to take chances.

Florida Law: Two Types of First-Degree Murder Charges

Under Florida Statute § 782.04, prosecutors can pursue a first-degree murder charge in two ways.

Premeditated First-Degree Murder

This charge applies when a person is accused of killing someone after planning the act. Prosecutors must prove that the killing was both intentional and premeditated—meaning the decision to kill happened before the act occurred. These cases often stem from domestic violence, interpersonal disputes, or revenge motives.

Felony Murder

Felony murder doesn’t require an intent to kill. If someone dies during the commission of certain felonies, every participant in the crime can be charged with murder. Common triggering offenses include:

• Robbery
• Burglary
• Arson
• Kidnapping
• Carjacking
• Drug trafficking
• Sexual battery
• Aggravated child abuse
• Home-invasion robbery
• Escape from custody

In felony murder cases, the law focuses on participation—not intent. That means even if someone else caused the death, you may still face the same punishment.

Why Most Defense Lawyers Aren’t Ready for a Murder Trial

Despite what websites might say, very few private attorneys have ever defended a first-degree murder case. The reason is simple: if they didn’t work in a major crimes unit within the Public Defender’s Office or State Attorney’s Office, they likely never had the opportunity to try one.

In most cases, hiring them would mean you’re their first murder case. That’s a risk you can’t afford.

Attorney Rocky Brancato is different. He served in one of Florida’s top major crimes divisions and personally handled numerous murder trials. As second-in-command at the Hillsborough County Public Defender’s Office, he trained and supervised lawyers handling capital cases. He brings trial-tested leadership and a deep understanding of homicide defense.

How We Defend First-Degree Murder Cases

No two cases are the same. We build a tailored strategy based on facts, forensic analysis, and procedural scrutiny. Some of the tools we use include:

• Challenging whether the act was truly premeditated
• Disputing your involvement in the underlying felony
• Demonstrating lack of foreseeability in a felony murder theory
• Suppressing evidence gathered unlawfully
• Using psychological or medical experts to explain behavior
• Highlighting other potential suspects or motives

Our preparation begins the moment we are hired. We do not wait until trial to get serious.

What Are the Penalties for First-Degree Murder in Florida?

First-degree murder is a capital felony. If convicted, the possible penalties include:

• Mandatory life imprisonment without parole
• The death penalty, if the State proves aggravating factors and files proper notice

These cases are typically assigned to homicide prosecutors. They move fast, and the pressure is immense. Having an experienced attorney in your corner is essential.

Where We Represent Clients

Our firm handles murder cases throughout the Tampa Bay area, including:

• Hillsborough County (Tampa, Brandon, Plant City)
• Pinellas County (Clearwater, St. Petersburg)
• Pasco County (Dade City, New Port Richey)
• Surrounding communities

We limit the number of clients we accept so we can focus on building strong, strategic defenses. Every client receives personalized attention and full commitment.

Take Action: Speak with a Tampa Murder Attorney Now

If you’ve been arrested—or even questioned—in connection with a homicide, do not wait. The earlier we get involved, the better we can protect you. Call (813) 727-7159 to schedule a confidential consultation with Rocky Brancato, an experienced attorney for first degree murder in Tampa. Contact the Brancato Law Firm, P.A.

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