The Law Offices of Paul D. Petruzzi, P.A. provide criminal defense representation in Miami, Miami-Dade County, and throughout South Florida. We handle matters in both federal and Florida state courts, including the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida and the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals. If you are under investigation or facing charges, we offer a free consultation to discuss your situation and how we may be able to help.
We represent clients in drug trafficking, fraud, money laundering, DUI, assault, domestic violence, theft, probation violations, record sealing, and other criminal matters. Our criminal defense attorneys assist with bond hearings, arraignment, pretrial motions, trials, sentencing, appeals, and post-conviction relief. Contact our Miami office by phone or through our contact form for a confidential free consultation. See our case results and practice areas for more information.
Federal Criminal Defense in the Southern District of Florida
Federal criminal cases in South Florida are prosecuted in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida (SDFL). The Miami Division handles cases arising in Miami-Dade County, including Miami, Miami Lakes, and surrounding areas. A Florida federal criminal defense attorney can help if you face federal charges in Florida or elsewhere. Federal charges—including drug trafficking, fraud, firearms offenses, and white-collar crimes—are serious and often carry long prison sentences under the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines. There is no parole in the federal system.
Early representation is critical in federal matters. If you receive a target letter, grand jury subpoena, or search warrant, or if agents attempt to interview you, consult an attorney before responding. What you say—or decline to say—during the investigation phase can shape whether charges are filed and what charges the government pursues. Our firm has represented clients in SDFL and federal courts nationwide from the investigation stage through trial, sentencing, and appeal.
If you have been indicted or believe you are under federal investigation, you need a Florida federal criminal defense attorney who knows SDFL procedures and the Eleventh Circuit. Our firm represents clients in Miami and nationwide. Contact a Miami criminal defense lawyer for a free consultation.
Why Federal Cases Are Different
Federal investigations often run for months or years before an indictment. The FBI, DEA, ATF, IRS, or other agencies may be involved. Grand jury subpoenas, search warrants, and cooperators can shape the case. Once charged, discovery rules, motion practice, and sentencing are governed by federal law and the Sentencing Guidelines. An attorney experienced in federal court can advise you at the investigation stage and represent you at trial and on appeal.
We handle drug crimes, theft and white-collar offenses, money laundering, bulk cash smuggling, illegal kickbacks, IPO fraud, crypto currency and unlicensed money exchange, perjury, tampering, racketeering, RICO, healthcare fraud, tax fraud, tax evasion, and firearm possession by a convicted felon. See our federal case results and our state vs. federal criminal charges guide.
Criminal Forfeiture and Asset Seizure
Federal drug, fraud, and money laundering cases often include criminal forfeiture. The government may seek to forfeit property, cash, vehicles, or real estate connected to the alleged offense. A criminal forfeiture attorney can challenge forfeiture allegations, assert innocent-owner or third-party claims, and negotiate to limit what is subject to forfeiture. Forfeiture proceedings run alongside the criminal case, and timing and strategy matter.
If you face federal charges with forfeiture, contact a Florida federal criminal defense attorney who understands both the criminal case and forfeiture defense. See our criminal forfeitures practice area.
Disclaimer: This page provides general information and does not create an attorney–client relationship. The information presented is not legal advice and should not be relied upon without consulting with a qualified attorney about your specific situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is criminal forfeiture?
Criminal forfeiture allows the government to take property connected to a federal crime. It is part of the criminal case, unlike civil forfeiture which is a separate proceeding.
What is the Southern District of Florida?
The U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida (SDFL) is the federal trial court for South Florida, including Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach Counties. The Miami Division courthouse is in Miami.
I think I am under federal investigation. What should I do?
Contact a federal criminal defense attorney immediately. Do not speak to agents or respond to subpoenas without legal counsel. Early representation can protect your rights and may affect whether and how you are charged.
Do you handle federal appeals?
Yes. We represent clients in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit, which hears appeals from federal district courts in Florida, Georgia, and Alabama.
Is the consultation free?
Yes. We offer a free consultation to discuss your federal case and how we may be able to help.
Request a Free Consultation
If you need assistance with a criminal matter in Miami or South Florida, we are available to discuss your situation and explore how we may be able to help. Free consultations are confidential. We serve clients in Miami-Dade, Broward County, Fort Lauderdale, and throughout Florida. Call us or contact our office to schedule an in-person or secure video meeting.