Criminal Defense Attorneys

Florida Criminal Defense Lawyers – Florida Statewide Defense of All Criminal Charges

The lawyers at Whittel & Melton offer expert, experienced, and focused representation for clients charged with criminal offenses in both State and Federal Court.

In Florida, we provide our best services in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Orlando, Naples, Tampa, Clearwater, Gainesville, Ocala, Jacksonville, Tallahassee, and the countries of Pasco, Hernando County, Citrus, Sumter, Monroe, and Sarasota.

With diverse backgrounds and years of experience, our criminal lawyers are ready to assist you.

Our team of lawyers includes a Board Certified Criminal Trial Law Specialist. They are former State Prosecutors and have received recognition in various journals and from their peers. 

In particular, two of our lawyers have received an AV Rating from Martindale-Hubbell, which is the highest rating for ethical standards and professional ability.

They have also been consistently recognized by Super Lawyers publication, selected as Legal Elite in Florida Trend magazine, and have earned a 10.0 rating by AVVO, a national online website.

Additionally, the founding partners have been nominated for State and Federal offices. 

The experienced lawyers at Whittel & Melton are here to help. You deserve competent, knowledgeable, and experienced expert criminal defense representation today.

Feel free to call us at 866-608-5529. Our office prosecutes all state and federal felony and misdemeanor charges, including DUI, juvenile offenses, white-collar crimes, traffic offenses, and probation violations. There is no criminal charge that we have not dealt with. 

If you or a loved one has been charged with any Florida crime, please reach out to the Florida criminal defense attorneys at Whittel & Melton, LLC immediately to schedule a free and confidential consultation.

What is the Role of Florida Criminal Defense Attorney?

While the primary function and responsibility of a criminal defense attorney is to zealously represent the criminally accused, there are many essential aspects of that role.

This role begins by counseling the client and taking all reasonable steps to prepare a viable defense. They do so by counseling their client and preparing a strong defense, which involves gathering facts, interviewing witnesses, reviewing police reports, subpoenaing documents, and researching case precedents and statutes. 

In addition to this, criminal defense attorneys are obligated to keep communications with their clients confidential, providing a safe space for clients to speak without fear of reprisals. Although there are exceptions, the Florida Attorney-Client Privilege is central to the relationship between the defense attorney and the client.

Every client and case is unique, and all criminal matters are stressful and difficult. Therefore, being a strong communicator and compassionate listener are essential qualities to help clients navigate the legal system and achieve the best possible outcome for their situation.

When Should You Hire a Florida Criminal Defense Attorney?

Although the answer may seem obvious, hiring a criminal defense attorney as soon as you are charged with a crime, or even suspect you are under investigation, is crucial. 

Having a criminal defense attorney from the beginning enables them to build a solid defense or assist you in navigating the investigation. With a lawyer in your corner early on, you are less likely to inadvertently say something incriminating to the police or other law enforcement agencies. 

Very often, individuals believe they can somehow “explain” their side of the story in a way that will protect them, but instead find themselves very disappointed in the outcome. Law enforcement officers are well-trained to extract information and, once they have obtained your statement, they can and will use those statements against you.

In fact, the law even allows law enforcement officers to be deceptive or dishonest in an effort to extract incriminating information, so it is always better to consult with a criminal defense attorney before providing any statements, evidence, or information to Law Enforcement.

The protections offered by the Florida Constitution and the United States Constitution exist for a reason, and it’s vital to consult with, retain, or hire an experienced criminal defense attorney to ensure these rights are not ignored or waived. 

Hiring a criminal defense attorney promptly can be the difference between a positive and negative outcome in any criminal case.

What Are the Costs of Hiring a Florida Criminal Defense Attorney?

Understanding the cost of hiring a Florida Criminal defense attorney can be complex. Most criminal defense attorneys do not charge hourly rates. 

Instead, they usually charge a non-refundable flat fee to cover various portions of the case. This fee structure can include all pretrial functions, not including depositions and trials, or it could encompass all tasks except the trial. It is essential to discuss these details with your lawyer to understand what is covered. 

The cost of hiring a criminal defense attorney in Hernando County, Florida, typically ranges between $5,000 and $20,000. However, depending on the jurisdiction and the nature of the charges, fees can be as low as $1,000 or as high as $1 million. Several factors influence these costs:

Factors Influencing Criminal Defense Attorney Costs:

1. The Severity of the Charge: The classification of the charge (1st-degree felony, 2nd-degree felony, 3rd-degree, 1st-degree misdemeanor, 2nd-degree misdemeanor) significantly impacts the cost.
2. Facts of the Case: The specific details and circumstances of the criminal allegation.
3. Aggravating Factors: Death, serious injuries, or financial loss associated with the charge.
4. Personal Background: How the criminal allegation may affect the defendant’s licensure (e.g. pilot, nurse, banker, lawyer) and other legal matters (civil lawsuit, divorce, bankruptcy, IRS issues).
5. Criminal Background: The defendant’s past criminal history.
6. Complexity of the Case: The Intricacies of legal and factual issues, and the need to update multiple family members. 
7. Location of Proceedings: The specific court and judge assigned to the case, as Florida judges have different rules and schedules. 

Hiring a criminal defense attorney is a critical decision that can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Discuss these factors with your lawyer to understand potential costs and services provided.