Criminal Defense Attorneys in Florida
If you are facing criminal charges in the state of Florida, it is essential to consult a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. While it may be tempting to negotiate with law enforcement or represent yourself in court, your freedom may be on the line, depending on your charges. Hiring an experienced criminal defense lawyer is the best way to ensure your rights remain fully protected while you attempt to reduce or remove the penalties against you.
Here at The Defense Group, our team of experienced defense attorneys have backgrounds in a wide range of criminal cases. From DUIs to drug possession to aggravated assault, we know just how to handle your case and get the outcome you deserve. If you have been accused of a crime, you could face jail time, hefty fines, and more. The criminal defense attorneys on our team can help you reduce or even remove the consequences you are facing.
Why is Criminal Defense Law so Important?
Everyone has the right to a fair trial and to maintain innocence until proven guilty. Criminal defense attorneys defend individuals’ rights to ensure the criminal procedure is followed to the letter. Without criminal defense attorneys, innocent individuals could unnecessarily face jail time and other penalties. The court system can be difficult to navigate, especially if you have little legal background or knowledge. Our team of Orlando criminal defense lawyers is here to help you defend yourself and negotiate with prosecutors.
Before you make your decision on a law firm, you should take advantage of a free appointment to review your arrest information and discuss possible strategies. You should make an informed decision when hiring a law firm. For a free strategy session, contact us today.
over 1,185 years of prison time avoided!
What Can The Defense Group Do for Me?
Our team at The Defense Group has over 100 years of combined experience in criminal law. We have handled various criminal cases and know how to negotiate with the prosecution to reduce or remove penalties you may be facing. Barring a plea bargain, our team can also build you a solid defense strategy and represent you before a judge to prove your innocence and reduce or remove the charges against you.
Our team of Orlando criminal defense attorneys prides itself on communication with clients. We will walk you through every step of the legal process, from being arrested all the way to your trial. We will leave no questions unanswered, and we will always consult with you before deciding on your legal defense strategy. We understand that we are here to serve you, and we will always work with your best interests in mind.
We have been misled by TV, movies, and urban legend. We have heard the police advise people of “their rights” a thousand times. We have come to believe that it is the police that give us these rights, and that we cannot exercise them until we have been warned (“advised”) by the police.
Wrong!!! You woke up this morning with all of these rights and protections in place. Before the police make it to the door of your vehicle; before they knock on your door at home or at work; before they signal to you that they want to talk with you; before any contact at all — YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN SILENT.
You want a simple rule to go by in dealing with the police. Try this — Just shut up!
Police officers receive intensive training on how to ask questions that will increase the chances of you going to jail. There is no reason to help them.
When asked about the contents of your vehicle, your home, or your person, advise the officer that you never talk to cops without your lawyer.
If arrested, continue to refuse to talk to the officers as you go through the booking process. Once released, call our experienced attorneys.
Police officers receive intensive training on how to ask questions that will increase the chances of you going to jail. There is no reason to help them.
Police officers receive intensive training on how to ask questions that will increase the chances of you going to jail. There is no reason to help them.
If arrested, continue to refuse to talk to the officers as you go through the booking process. Once released, call our experienced attorneys.
Does Experience Matter When Hiring a Criminal Defense Attorney?
When facing criminal charges, it can be easy for some people to panic and hire the first defense attorney on their radar. Unfortunately, an inexperienced defense attorney doesn’t have the knowledge or legal know-how to defend your case the right way. Because of our extensive combined experience, our team at The Defense Group knows how to handle even the most complex of criminal cases. Whether you are a first-time offender or someone with an existing criminal record, our team has the knowledge to defend you in state or federal court. All criminal defense cases are different, and we treat each one with the care it deserves.
Our team has experience in the following areas:
- DUIs
- Drug-related crimes
- Grand theft
- Murder and attempted murder
- Traffic violations
- Property crimes
- Weapons charges
- White collar crimes
- Sex Crimes
- Internet Crimes
- Domestic Battery
- Violent Crimes
- All Misdemeanors and Felonies
And more. Even if you don’t see your criminal charges listed above, give us a call today. We are confident we can assist you.
At our law firm, we understand that hiring a defense attorney is no small feat. That’s why we offer free case evaluations to every potential client. Whether you’ve just been arrested, are facing charges, or would like to appeal a conviction, we will review your case with you for free before you hire us.
Our team has over 100 years of combined experience, and we are ready to serve you. Our clients know that we work tirelessly to serve them and get the outcomes they deserve. Every lawyer on our team knows how to handle even the most complex cases, so we are confident that we can assist you.
Every client deserves to know what’s happening with their case at all times. We are available to talk with you 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We will leave no questions unanswered and are always there to update your legal strategy and adjust if needed. We also have bilingual attorneys and staff.
Every criminal case is different, so our legal strategies are, too. We work with every client to fully review their case before developing a legal strategy that meets their needs. No matter your legal situation, we are confident that our experienced team can handle it.
At our firm, we always strive to get your case dismissed. If that is not possible, then we will do everything in our power to reduce the penalties you may be facing. Our attorneys have been practicing law for decades, and all have a long list of satisfied clients who are no longer facing charges.
Our team focuses on criminal defense cases, meaning our time is not split between practice areas. We only handle clients who are facing criminal charges or want to appeal a criminal conviction. This means that we can dedicate our time to your case and focus on getting the results you deserve.
At our law firm, we understand that hiring a defense attorney is no small feat. That’s why we offer free case evaluations to every potential client. Whether you’ve just been arrested, are facing charges, or would like to appeal a conviction, we will review your case with you for free before you hire us.
Our team has over 100 years of combined experience, and we are ready to serve you. Our clients know that we work tirelessly to serve them and get the outcomes they deserve. Every lawyer on our team knows how to handle even the most complex cases, so we are confident that we can assist you.
Every client deserves to know what’s happening with their case at all times. We are available to talk with you 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We will leave no questions unanswered and are always there to update your legal strategy and adjust if needed. We also have bilingual attorneys and staff.
Every criminal case is different, so our legal strategies are, too. We work with every client to fully review their case before developing a legal strategy that meets their needs. No matter your legal situation, we are confident that our experienced team can handle it.
At our firm, we always strive to get your case dismissed. If that is not possible, then we will do everything in our power to reduce the penalties you may be facing. Our attorneys have been practicing law for decades, and all have a long list of satisfied clients who are no longer facing charges.
Our team focuses on criminal defense cases, meaning our time is not split between practice areas. We only handle clients who are facing criminal charges or want to appeal a criminal conviction. This means that we can dedicate our time to your case and focus on getting the results you deserve.
How Does The Defense Group Stand Out?
While we handle only criminal defense cases, we are ready to assist you in finding an attorney for other legal needs you may have.
Many law firms practice in many areas of the law, which can spread their resources thin. At The Defense Group, our team focuses solely on criminal defense cases to protect the rights of individuals. We can give you personalized attention and care, sticking with you from the beginning of your criminal case all the way until the end. Our defense lawyers have decades of experience between them, and we know how to adjust our legal strategies to meet your criminal defense needs.
We are available to serve clients 24 hours per day, seven days per week. Our team will meet with you on the weekends or at night if it better fits your schedule. And if you call us from jail, a defense attorney on our team can meet you there to discuss your case and ensure your rights remain fully protected. We pride ourselves on giving personalized attention to each of our clients so they never have to wonder how their case is proceeding.
Is The Defense Group Right for Me?
Hiring a criminal defense attorney is the best decision you could make after being charged with a crime. At The Defense Group, our team of Orlando criminal defense lawyers is prepared to help you navigate the legal system and protect your rights. No matter what criminal offenses you are being charged with, our law firm can review your case and develop a legal strategy to reach a plea bargain or defend you in court.
Don’t leave your freedom up to chance by representing yourself or hiring an inexperienced defense attorney. Jail time, fines, and probation are just some of the penalties you may face after a criminal conviction. You may also experience difficulty getting a job, securing housing, or applying for college if you have a criminal record. Reach out to The Defense Group today for a free consultation by calling 407-743-8430.
What Happens After A Person is Arrested?
After an arrest, a person will typically be brought to a police station and then “booked.” During the booking process, officers will note any personal and biographical information about the individual. Officers will then use this information to look up warrants and criminal history, if applicable. The police officer will use this information to decide whether the individual can be released or if they need to be detained. If they can be released, the officer will also decide whether they need to pay bail or bond. After that, the police will file a criminal complaint, and the individual will be required to appear in court.
Do You Have to Speak to the Police After Being Arrested?
Everyone in the United States has the right to remain silent. If you are arrested, you can use your rights to not speak to the police or answer any of their questions. You must identify yourself to officers and tell them your name; however, you are not required to tell them anything else. It is important to note that you must verbally tell officers that you wish to invoke your right to silence; otherwise, your silence could be used against you in court. Generally, it is recommended never to speak to police officers without an attorney present.
What is an Arraignment?
An arraignment is a proceeding that happens in court in any criminal case. If an individual has charges brought against them, they will go to court for an arraignment hearing. During this hearing, the judge will announce any charges that have been filed. Then, the defendant can enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. At this time, prosecutors will be able to restrict the defendant’s freedoms if they are released or ask the court to enter an order of detention. A defense attorney can help argue for a defendant’s release on their behalf.
Do Criminal Cases Always Go to Court?
No, criminal cases do not always go to court. In fact, many criminal cases are solved outside of court. Prosecutors will often work with defense attorneys to negotiate a plea agreement. Typically, the agreement hinges upon whether the defendant produces information to assist in the case or serves a lesser penalty than the maximum sentence. If prosecutors and the defendant cannot reach an agreement, then in most cases, the case will go to court. However, if the prosecution does not have enough evidence to prove guilt, the case may be dismissed before it goes to trial.
When is the Best Time to Hire a Defense Attorney?
The best time to hire a defense attorney is the moment you learn that there are charges against you. While it may be tempting to wait and see how the case develops or if the charges are dropped, having a defense attorney on your side from day one is invaluable. Our team of criminal defense lawyers can work with you to gather compelling evidence on your behalf and build a strong case in your defense. The longer you wait, the more chance the prosecution has to build a case against you. If there are criminal charges against you, reach out to an attorney today.
What’s the Difference Between a Felony and a Misdemeanor?
A misdemeanor is often considered a low-level crime. Examples of misdemeanors include disorderly conduct, indecent exposure, reckless driving, and prostitution. Because misdemeanors are generally non-violent crimes, they often carry less harsh punishments. Felonies, on the other hand, are the most extreme crimes. Examples of felonies include grand theft, first-degree murder, robbery, and corporal injury. Penalties for felonies are often much more severe and can even include the death penalty. Both misdemeanors and felonies are ranked in degrees, with third-degree being the least serious and first-degree being the most serious. However, both misdemeanor and felony convictions can leave you with a permanent criminal record.
Can Criminal Records Ever be Sealed?
Yes, criminal records can be sealed. Although most criminal records are permanent, there is a way to seal your records and prevent them from being available to the public. If you have a non-violent, non-sexual arrest on your criminal record, a criminal defense lawyer can work with you to apply for the record-sealing process. If you are eligible, the court can seal your criminal records so that they’re only available via the court system or through law enforcement officers. You can also apply for expungement, which deletes your criminal record like it was never there.
Can a Warrant be Removed?
Yes, a warrant can be removed. A warrant is a request for an individual to appear in court. Once the individual appears in court, the warrant is removed. Because a warrant means that there is a pending criminal charge, the court has decided that there is probable cause for their arrest. A warrant may also be issued if an individual does not comply with a court order, like attending a hearing, completing probation, or paying a fine. If a warrant was issued incorrectly, then an individual may be able to get the warrant removed without an appearance before the court.