Criminal charges can be a stressful issue with major consequences for your freedom, finances, and criminal record. However, experts in criminal law, such as a defense attorney in Santa Rosa County, can guide you through this hard time.
Your legal defense depends on selecting a suitable criminal defense lawyer. Let's figure out if your case is under the practice area of defense attorneys and tips to choose the top-rated one. Let's delve into the details!
Practice Areas of Defense Attorneys
Defense attorneys in Santa Rosa County work on various misdemeanor and felony charges, including:
- Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
According to Florida statutes, someone who is defined as "driving under the influence" has a blood alcohol content higher than 0.08 grams per 100 milliliters or more than 0.08 grams per 210 liters of breath
DUI penalties vary based on severity and prior offenses, including fines and jail time. Browning Law can assist in determining whether the offender's rights were violated during their apprehension and arrest and attempt to counter or lessen the charges brought against them.
- Drug Possession
Florida Statutes Section 893 prohibits drug possession and sale. Evidence from illegal searches is inadmissible. Despite this law, local authorities often violate it. A defense attorney in Santa Rosa County can protect your rights if this happens.
- Assault & Battery
Florida laws define assault as an unlawful threat of violence against another person, resulting in terror and a justified fear of impending harm. Defense attorneys in Santa Rosa County, with their experience, can assist defendants in minimizing charges or dropping assault accusations.
- Domestic Violence
A legal phrase for any offense wherein one family member or household member is physically injured or dies as a result of another's actions is "domestic violence." You could be charged with Yet, you may safeguard your gun rights and reputation with the help of a defense attorney in Santa Rosa County.
- Theft
Thievery may result in different penalties. You may need to look for an expert defense attorney in Santa Rosa County for non-participation demonstration, minimized involvement, and argument for fewer charges or punishments.
- Driving With a Suspended License
According to Florida statutes, suspended licenses are regarded as moving violations and penalized. Penalties are based on habit. A legal office's staff and attorneys can assess your case and work to lift or shorten your suspension so you can resume your regular activities.
- Possession of Alcohol by a Minor
According to Florida statutes, alcohol consumption and possession by children under 21 is forbidden. To preserve chances for future work and education, legal representatives such as defense attorneys in Santa Rosa County might push for a reduced sentence and the expungement of a record.
Qualities of a Top-Rated Defense Attorney
Here are things to consider before hiring a defense attorney in Santa Rosa County:
- Deep knowledge and expertise in law
A defense attorney in Santa Rosa County with years of experience and a track record of winning cases will likely be helpful for you. Get references from previous clients and inquire about their expertise in situations similar to yours.
- Strong legal background with a history of winning cases
Top-rated defense attorneys usually possess a high reputation and a strong track record of successful cases. Thus, you can do a complete background check, including awards reviews and membership in criminal law-focused professional associations or organizations, to ensure you choose the most suitable one.
- Exceptional legal expertise and superior negotiation skills
When choosing a defense attorney in Santa Rosa County, prioritize communication and negotiation skills. Look for a lawyer who pays close attention to your concerns, lays out a strategy, and is reachable for updates and discussions.
- Essential contacts and local expertise
The connections a criminal defense attorney has with judges and prosecutors have a big impact on the outcome of cases. Good relationships can aid in plea negotiations, support the reduction of charges, and result in favorable sentencing.
- Appropriate fee structure
Hiring a lawyer might be costly. More experienced attorneys typically charge greater rates than less experienced attorneys. Thus, you need to learn about each attorney's fee and compare it with others before choosing a suitable choice for your budget.
How to Find a Top-Rated Defense Attorney
When meeting a defense attorney in Santa Rosa County, this guideline will help you define if it's the right lawyer for you. To evaluate a lawyer, consider:
- The lawyer's local practice: Choosing a local criminal defense lawyer with a wealth of expertise in your community. They can offer invaluable knowledge and connections with judges, prosecutors, and law enforcement to make the criminal justice process go smoothly.
- The lawyer's skillful experience: Hiring an expert lawyer with specialized knowledge and attention to detail is essential when defending against serious charges.
- Choose the one you trust: If any defense attorney in Santa Rosa County can make you feel comfortable and trustworthy during a meeting, he's probably the right one for you.
- You can also get a free consultation to get a preliminary review of your case and see if the attorney is a good fit for you. At Browning Law Firm, we offer free consultations to help you assess your situation and discuss your options.
Build a Strong Defense with Browning Law
Experienced defense lawyers are essential for several reasons. They possess knowledge of the law, negotiation skills, proficiency in legal strategy, and a deep comprehension of the legal system. Since dealing with legal matters can be unpleasant, their experience helps reduce stress and increase the possibility of a favorable result.
If you're looking for an expert defense attorney in Santa Rosa County, Browning Law is here for you. We understand how a lawyer can greatly influence the outcome of a case. Thus, we offer free consultations to help you understand your case and guide you every step of the way.
FAQs
1. What are the four sorts of defenses?
The four main types of legal defenses are:
- Self-Defense: Claiming you acted to protect yourself from imminent harm.
- Defense of Others: Arguing you acted to protect someone else from harm.
- Defense of Property: Asserting you used reasonable force to protect your property.
- Alibi: Providing evidence that you were elsewhere when the crime occurred.
2. What is the cost of a defense attorney in Florida?
Depending on their fee structure, a criminal defense lawyer in Florida may bill between $1,500 and $3,000. Some charge an hourly rate, while others have a fixed fee determined by the projected amount of work the attorney will do.