[Ronald_Magnus]

I’m looking for a definitive answer to this question: When the judge gives the case to the jury, can she tell them that they have the option to convict Zimmerman on the lesser charge of manslaughter?

[NonValueAdded]

I’m looking for a definitive answer to this question: When the judge gives the case to the jury, can she tell them that they have the option to convict Zimmerman on the lesser charge of manslaughter?

Yes, in Florida the 2nd degree charge includes all of the lesser offenses.

[MrEdd]

She probably will.

But self defense is also a defense in the case of manslaughter. If any jurors believe George Zimmerman was in fear for his life they would acquit on that charge as well. Going from murder two to manslaughter just gets rid of the prosecution’s requirement to prove a depraved mind.

I doubt it would be much easier in this particular case to convict on the lessor charge.