We represent clients across Florida. For Miami-Dade or South Florida, our Miami criminal defense lawyer can help.
Federal and state laws are complex. Deadlines are strict. Talk to a criminal defense lawyer early to protect your rights. We handle cases in Miami-Dade County Court, the Eleventh Judicial Circuit, the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida (SDFL), and the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals. Our criminal defense guides explain what happens after an arrest, bond, pretrial hearings, and more.
Overview
Criminal defense protects your rights when you face charges in federal or state court. Federal cases are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney's Office and follow federal statutes and the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines. State cases in Florida are handled by county and circuit courts, with the State Attorney's Office handling prosecution. In Miami-Dade County, criminal matters are heard in Miami-Dade County Court (misdemeanors and some felonies) or the Eleventh Judicial Circuit Court. Federal cases arising in South Florida are prosecuted in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida (SDFL), with appeals to the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals. A criminal defense attorney can help you understand which court applies and build a defense tailored to your situation.
Our Miami practice includes dedicated representation for DUI, drug crimes, federal charges, domestic violence, assault, child abuse defense.
We handle assault, aggravated battery, grand theft, child abuse and neglect, money laundering, racketeering, drug trafficking, sex trafficking, bulk cash smuggling, and other charges. See our federal case results and post-conviction outcomes.
We also represent clients charged with attempted murder with a firearm, felony murder, manslaughter, kidnapping, robbery, home invasion, sexual battery, shooting or throwing a deadly missile, possession of an illegal weapon, firearm possession by a convicted felon, perjury, tampering, immigration offenses, illegal kickbacks, IPO fraud, healthcare fraud, tax fraud, tax evasion, RICO, crypto currency and unlicensed money exchange, and related offenses.
Federal and State Criminal Defense in Miami and Florida
In Miami-Dade County and South Florida, criminal cases may be prosecuted in state court or federal court. State cases are handled in Miami-Dade County Court (County Court for misdemeanors) or the Eleventh Judicial Circuit Court (Circuit Court for felonies). Both sit in Miami. The Miami-Dade State Attorney's Office prosecutes state cases. Federal cases arising in the region are prosecuted in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida (SDFL), Miami Division. Appeals from federal convictions go to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit.
Federal and state criminal defense differ in important ways. Federal sentencing uses the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines; there is no parole in the federal system. Federal investigations often run longer before charges are filed. A Florida federal criminal defense attorney or Miami criminal defense lawyer who handles both can advise on where your case may be filed and what to expect. For Miami-Dade–specific representation, see our Miami DUI lawyer, domestic violence defense lawyer in Miami, assault lawyer, and drug crimes lawyer pages.
Florida’s criminal code distinguishes between misdemeanors and felonies; penalties vary by offense degree. Common Miami-Dade charges include drug trafficking, drug possession, assault, robbery, grand theft, child abuse, and sexual battery. White-collar charges such as money laundering, healthcare fraud, and RICO are often prosecuted federally. Early representation—before or at first appearance, bond court, or indictment—can affect bond, discovery, and negotiating leverage. See our arrest process guide, Miami bond hearing guide, and FAQ.
What This May Involve
Our criminal defense practice includes full representation from investigation through trial and appeal. We review discovery and evidence, file pre-trial motions (including motions to suppress and motions to dismiss), negotiate with prosecutors when appropriate, and represent clients at trial when necessary. In federal court, we appear in the Southern District of Florida and other districts nationwide, and handle appeals in the Eleventh Circuit. In Florida state court, we practice in Miami-Dade, Broward, and elsewhere. Federal court has distinct rules—no parole, mandatory sentencing guidelines, and longer typical sentences. Early representation is critical.
- Review charges and evidence
- Research and case analysis
- Motions and legal challenges
- Plea talks when helpful
- Trial when needed
Common Steps in a Case
Each case is different. Most follow these steps:
- Initial consultation and case evaluation
- Investigation and evidence review
- Legal research and strategy development
- Pre-trial motions and hearings
- Negotiations when appropriate
- Trial proceedings if necessary
- Sentencing or resolution
Steps and timelines vary by case and jurisdiction.
When to Speak With a Lawyer
If you face criminal charges—federal or state—or believe you are under investigation, speak with a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Early representation helps protect your rights during questioning, bond hearings, and arraignment. Federal investigations often run for months before charges are filed; having counsel during that phase can influence whether and how you are charged. In Miami-Dade, bond court and first appearance typically occur within 24 hours of arrest.
For common questions about arrests, bond, federal vs. state charges, and sentencing, see our criminal defense FAQ.
The Law Offices of Paul D. Petruzzi, P.A. represent clients in Miami, Miami-Dade, Broward, and nationwide. We handle federal and state criminal matters including investigations, bond hearings, trials, appeals, and post-conviction relief. For a free consultation, contact our office or call us. See our case results and practice areas for more information.
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.
Charges We Handle
Drug Importation
Importing drugs into the United States and the state of Florida is a serious offense. Laws prohibiting the illegal importation of controlled substances carry mandatory minimum sentences and punishment of up to life in prison based on the type and amount of the substance being imported.
Learn More →Drug Manufacturing / Drug Labs
Manufacturing controlled substances is a crime under both state and federal law.
Learn More →Drug Possession
Possession of a controlled substance is a serious offense under both state and federal law.
Learn More →Drug Possession W Intent to Distribute
Possession with the intent to distribute controlled substances is a serious crime under both state and federal law.
Learn More →Drug Trafficking
Drug trafficking is a serious federal crime that involves the illegal distribution, sale, or transportation of controlled substances across state lines or international borders.
Learn More →Drug Paraphernalia
Drug paraphernalia refers to the equipment, products, and materials used in the cultivation, production, distribution, or consumption of controlled substances, such as narcotics or illicit drugs.
Learn More →Drug Cultivation
Cultivation, grow house and hydroponic offenses are often included in drug manufacturing statutes that criminalize the preparation of any soil or hydroponic medium for the planting of a controlled substance, the tending, and care of a controlled substance, or the harvesting of a controlled substance.
Learn More →Marijuana Possession
Possession of marijuana in Florida is a crime under state law.
Learn More →Cocaine Possession
Possession of cocaine is a felony under Florida law regardless of quantity. Third-degree felony possession carries up to 5 years in prison. Cocaine includes crack cocaine. Defenses may involve challenging the legality of the search, chain of custody, or constructive possession.
Learn More →Prescription Drug Fraud
Prescription drug fraud involves obtaining or distributing controlled prescription medications through deception, forged prescriptions, or other unlawful means. Florida and federal law criminalize these activities. Penalties vary by the drug schedule and quantity involved.
Learn More →Trafficking in Fentanyl
Trafficking in fentanyl carries severe mandatory minimum sentences under Florida and federal law. Thresholds are low due to the drug's potency. Federal cases are commonly prosecuted in the Southern District of Florida. Penalties can include substantial prison terms.
Learn More →Trafficking in Cocaine
Trafficking in cocaine in Florida carries mandatory minimum prison sentences based on quantity: 28–200 grams, 200–400 grams, or 400+ grams. Federal trafficking under 21 U.S.C. § 841 carries similar or higher penalties. Both state and federal prosecutors pursue these cases aggressively.
Learn More →Trafficking in Heroin
Trafficking in heroin carries mandatory minimum sentences under Florida law (4 grams or more) and federal law. Penalties depend on quantity and prior convictions. Federal cases are often filed in the Southern District of Florida. Early representation is critical.
Learn More →Tax Fraud
Tax fraud is a serious criminal offense that involves the intentional evasion of tax obligations through fraudulent means, such as false statements, omissions, or misrepresentations on tax returns.
Learn More →Tax Evasion
Tax evasion is a criminal offense that involves the intentional avoidance of tax obligations through illegal means, such as underreporting income, inflating deductions, or concealing assets.
Learn More →Sales Tax Evasion
Sales tax evasion is a criminal offense that involves the intentional avoidance of sales tax obligations through fraudulent means, such as underreporting sales, inflating deductions, or concealing transactions.
Learn More →Healthcare Fraud
Healthcare fraud is a serious criminal offense that involves the submission of false or misleading claims to healthcare programs, such as Medicare or Medicaid, for reimbursement or payment.
Learn More →ALF Fraud
ALF fraud is a criminal offense that involves the submission of false or misleading claims to assisted living facilities (ALFs) for reimbursement or payment. Federal ALF fraud laws prohibit individuals and entities from engaging in deceptive practices to defraud ALFs.
Learn More →Medicare, Medicaid, etc
Medicare and Medicaid fraud is a serious criminal offense that involves the submission of false or misleading claims to government healthcare programs for reimbursement or payment.
Learn More →Mental Health Clinic Fraud
Mental health clinics offenses often occur when an individual uses health care program benefits involving a mental health clinic for means other than what is permitted by law, such as filing for benefits without actually performing the treatments that were paid for by the benefit program.
Learn More →HIV Fraud
HIV fraud is a criminal offense that involves the submission of false or misleading claims related to HIV/AIDS treatment or services for reimbursement or payment. Federal HIV fraud laws prohibit individuals and entities from engaging in deceptive practices to defraud government healthcare programs.
Learn More →DME Fraud
Durable medical equipment (DME) fraud is a criminal offense that involves the submission of false or misleading claims related to DME for reimbursement or payment. Federal DME fraud laws prohibit individuals and entities from engaging in deceptive practices to defraud government healthcare programs.
Learn More →Illegal Kickbacks
Illegal kickback offenses often occur when an individual uses health care program benefits for means other than what is permitted by law, such as filing for benefits under someone else's name with fake information with which to base the claim, and then taking a portion of that money for a use that is inconsistent with the application for benefits.
Learn More →Petty Theft
Petty theft in Florida involves the unlawful taking of property valued at less than $750 (or under $100 for certain items). It is typically a misdemeanor. Penalties include jail time, fines, and a criminal record. Defenses may challenge value, intent, or ownership.
Learn More →Retail Theft
Retail theft (shoplifting) involves taking merchandise from a store without paying or with intent to deprive the retailer of the property. Florida treats it as petty theft or grand theft based on value. Civil demand letters may accompany criminal charges.
Learn More →Burglary
Burglary in Florida involves entering a structure or conveyance without permission with intent to commit a crime inside. Burglary of a dwelling carries enhanced penalties. Unoccupied and occupied burglaries are graded differently. Defenses may challenge intent or the structure element.
Learn More →Armed Robbery
Armed robbery involves taking property from another by force or fear while possessing a firearm or other deadly weapon. Florida treats it as a first-degree felony with severe penalties, including potential mandatory minimums under the 10-20-Life statute when a firearm is discharged.
Learn More →Identity Theft
Identity theft involves the unlawful use of another person's identifying information to obtain benefits, commit fraud, or avoid detection. Florida and federal law impose significant penalties. Credit card fraud, tax fraud, and medical identity theft are common variants.
Learn More →Wire Fraud
Wire fraud under 18 U.S.C. § 1343 involves using interstate wire communications to execute a scheme to defraud. It is a federal crime commonly charged alongside mail fraud, bank fraud, or healthcare fraud. Penalties can include substantial prison terms.
Learn More →Bank Fraud
Bank fraud under 18 U.S.C. § 1344 involves defrauding a financial institution or obtaining bank property through false pretenses. It is a federal crime with penalties up to 30 years. Common in mortgage fraud, check fraud, and loan application schemes.
Learn More →Forgery
Forgery involves altering, creating, or signing a written instrument with intent to defraud. Florida law criminalizes forging documents such as checks, deeds, and identification. Penalties depend on the type of document and the harm caused.
Learn More →Uttering a Forged Instrument
Uttering a forged instrument involves knowingly passing, publishing, or attempting to pass a forged document as genuine with intent to defraud. In Florida, it is a felony. Often charged together with forgery.
Learn More →Organized Fraud
Organized fraud in Florida involves a systematic scheme to defraud one or more victims of property or services. Penalties depend on the amount involved. Aggregate loss across victims can elevate the offense. Often prosecuted alongside other fraud charges.
Learn More →Credit Card Fraud
Credit card fraud involves the fraudulent use of credit cards, debit cards, or card information to obtain goods, services, or cash. Florida and federal law cover various forms including unauthorized use, counterfeit cards, and identity theft in connection with cards.
Learn More →Mortgage Fraud
Mortgage fraud involves misrepresentation or omission of material facts in connection with a mortgage loan. Common schemes include occupancy fraud, income fraud, and appraisal fraud. Federal prosecutors often charge wire fraud, bank fraud, and conspiracy.
Learn More →Child Pornography
Child pornography statutes make it unlawful to possess, intentionally view or transmit material depicting sexual conduct by a child. In Florida, possession of three or more photographs of a child engaged in sexual conduct can be used as evidence of intent to transmit the material.
Learn More →Indecent Exposure
Indecent exposure is a criminal offense that involves the intentional exposure of one's genitals or other private body parts in a public place or in the presence of others in a manner that is offensive or lewd.
Learn More →Indecent Exposure To A Child
Indecent exposure to a child is a criminal offense that involves the intentional exposure of one's genitals or other private body parts in the presence of a minor in a manner that is offensive or lewd.
Learn More →Lewd And Lascivious Conduct
Lewd and lascivious conduct is a criminal offense that involves engaging in sexual behavior or acts that are considered indecent, obscene, or offensive in nature. Federal and state laws prohibit individuals from engaging in lewd and lascivious conduct.
Learn More →Lewd or Lascivious Battery
Lewd or lascivious battery in Florida involves sexual battery upon a person 12 years of age or older but less than 16, or encouraging a minor to engage in prohibited sexual conduct.
Learn More →Internet Solicitation of a Minor
Internet solicitation of a minor involves using electronic communication to solicit, entice, or attempt to lure a minor to engage in unlawful sexual conduct. Florida and federal law impose severe penalties. Sting operations are common. Early counsel is critical.
Learn More →Sex Trafficking
Sex trafficking is a serious federal offense that involves the recruitment, harboring, transportation, provision, or obtaining of individuals for the purpose of engaging in commercial sex acts through force, fraud, or coercion or involving minors in such activities for financial gain.
Learn More →Sexual Battery
Sexual battery is a criminal offense that involves the non-consensual touching or sexual contact with another person, often involving force, coercion, or intimidation. Federal and state sexual battery laws prohibit individuals from engaging in this behavior.
Learn More →Soliciting
Soliciting is a criminal offense that involves the act of enticing, persuading, or encouraging another person to engage in sexual activity in exchange for money, goods, or services. Federal and state solicitation laws prohibit individuals from engaging in this behavior.
Learn More →Immigration Offenses
Immigration offenses encompass a range of violations related to immigration laws and regulations.
Learn More →Immigration Fraud
Immigration fraud typically involves the false alteration or making of a document required by statute for entry into the United States.
Learn More →Carrying A Concealed Weapon
Carrying a concealed weapon is a criminal offense that involves the possession of a concealed firearm or other dangerous weapon in public without a permit or legal authorization. Federal and state laws regulate the carrying of concealed weapons to protect public safety and prevent violence.
Learn More →Firearm Possession By A Convicted Felon
Firearm possession by a convicted felon involves the unlawful act of possessing a firearm or ammunition by an individual previously convicted of a felony.
Learn More →Possession Of An Illegal Weapon
Possession of an illegal weapon involves the unlawful act of owning or carrying a firearm or weapon that is prohibited by law. Penalties for this offense vary by jurisdiction and may include imprisonment and fines. Additionally, individuals may face potential federal charges under 18 USC Sec. 922.
Learn More →Trafficking In Firearms
Trafficking in firearms involves the illegal act of selling, transferring, or distributing firearms, typically in large quantities and often across state or national borders.
Learn More →Aggravated Fleeing and Eluding
Aggravated fleeing and eluding in Florida involves willfully fleeing a law enforcement officer in an authorized vehicle with lights and siren active, with aggravated circumstances such as high speed, reckless driving, or causing serious bodily injury. It is a felony with enhanced penalties.
Learn More →Aggravated Battery
Aggravated battery involves the intentional and unlawful act of causing serious bodily harm or injury to another person, often through the use of a deadly weapon or under circumstances likely to cause great bodily harm or death.
Learn More →Assault
Assault involves the intentional act of causing apprehension or fear of imminent bodily harm or offensive contact in another person.
Learn More →Attempted Murder With A Firearm
Attempted murder with a firearm involves the deliberate but unsuccessful attempt to kill another person using a firearm. Penalties for this offense typically include a minimum of 10 years imprisonment up to life imprisonment, along with heavy fines.
Learn More →Battery
Battery involves the intentional and unlawful act of causing bodily harm or injury to another person. Penalties for battery vary by jurisdiction and may include imprisonment and fines. The severity of the offense depends on factors such as the extent of harm caused and whether a weapon was involved.
Learn More →Battery On An LEO
Battery on a Law Enforcement Officer (LEO) involves the intentional and unlawful act of causing bodily harm or injury to a police officer or other law enforcement personnel while they are performing their official duties.
Learn More →Child Abuse or Neglect
Child abuse or neglect involves the intentional harm, mistreatment, or neglect of a child, resulting in physical, emotional, or psychological damage.
Learn More →Felony Murder
Felony murder is a legal doctrine in which a person can be charged with murder if a death occurs during the commission of a felony, even if the death was unintentional.
Learn More →Home Invasion
Home invasion involves the unlawful entry into a residence with the intent to commit a crime, such as robbery, assault, or burglary.
Learn More →Kidnapping
Kidnapping involves the unlawful taking and confinement of a person against their will, often with the intent to hold them for ransom, facilitate another crime, or inflict harm.
Learn More →Manslaughter
Manslaughter involves the unlawful killing of a person without malice aforethought.
Learn More →Negligent Homicide
Negligent homicide involves the unlawful killing of a person through gross negligence or reckless behavior without the intent to cause death. Penalties for negligent homicide vary but typically include imprisonment ranging from a minimum of 1 year to a maximum of 10 years, along with heavy fines.
Learn More →Resisting Arrest With Violence
Resisting arrest with violence involves the intentional and forceful obstruction of a law enforcement officer's attempt to make a lawful arrest.
Learn More →Aggravated Assault
Aggravated assault involves an assault with a deadly weapon without intent to kill, or with intent to commit a felony. It is a third-degree felony in Florida. Different from simple assault, which is a misdemeanor. Defenses may challenge intent, weapon status, or imminence.
Learn More →Resisting Arrest Without Violence
Resisting arrest without violence involves obstructing or opposing a law enforcement officer in the lawful execution of a legal duty without violence. It is a first-degree misdemeanor in Florida. Often charged alongside other offenses during an arrest.
Learn More →False Imprisonment
False imprisonment involves unlawfully restraining another person against their will. Florida law grades it as a felony when committed with a weapon or in furtherance of another felony. Domestic disputes and kidnapping-related conduct can give rise to this charge.
Learn More →Witness Tampering
Witness tampering involves intimidating, threatening, or corruptly influencing a witness or victim to alter testimony or avoid cooperation. Florida and federal law impose serious penalties. Often charged in connection with ongoing criminal prosecutions.
Learn More →Aggravated Stalking
Aggravated stalking in Florida involves stalking that involves credible threats of violence or harassment that causes emotional distress and serves no legitimate purpose. It is a third-degree felony. Restraining orders and prior convictions can enhance charges.
Learn More →Domestic Violence Battery
Domestic violence battery involves intentionally touching or striking a family or household member against their will. Florida enhances penalties for domestic violence and may impose mandatory arrest, no-contact provisions, and batterers' intervention.
Learn More →Violation of Injunction
Violation of an injunction for protection (restraining order) in Florida is a first-degree misdemeanor for a first offense and can be a felony for repeat violations. Violations include contact, proximity, or conduct prohibited by the order.
Learn More →Probation Violation
Probation violation occurs when a person under community supervision fails to comply with conditions imposed by the court. Florida judges may revoke probation and impose the underlying sentence or a portion of it. Technical and substantive violations are treated differently.
Learn More →Robbery
Robbery involves the unlawful taking of property from another person or their immediate presence through the use of force, intimidation, or threat of violence.
Learn More →Grand Theft
Grand theft in Florida is the unlawful taking of property valued above statutory thresholds (e.
Learn More →Shooting Or Throwing A Deadly Missile
Shooting or throwing a deadly missile involves the act of discharging a firearm or throwing a projectile that can cause serious injury or death, such as a rock or bottle, at a person, vehicle, or occupied structure.
Learn More →Insider Trading
Insider trading involves the illegal practice of trading on the stock exchange to one's own advantage through having access to confidential information.
Learn More →ICO Fraud
ICO (Initial Coin Offering) fraud involves the deceitful promotion or sale of cryptocurrency tokens to investors, often through false or misleading statements about the potential returns or legitimacy of the ICO.
Learn More →IPO Fraud
IPO (Initial Public Offering) fraud involves deceitful practices related to the initial sale of a company's shares to the public.
Learn More →Antitrust Violations
Antitrust violations occur when there are actions that restrain business competition. Antitrust laws such as the Sherman Antitrust Act and the Clayton Act make it a crime to restrain interstate or foreign commerce and to have monopolies and anti-competitive agreements.
Learn More →Bulk Cash Smuggling
Bulk cash smuggling often involves the transfer of large amounts of money that make up the proceeds of an illegal activity. In many cases, the money that is being smuggled is used to fund an unlawful organization. Both federal and Florida laws include heavy fines and severe criminal penalties.
Learn More →Money Laundering
Money laundering usually involves the transfer of money that is the result of illegal activity with the intent that the money will support further illegal activity.
Learn More →Embezzlement
The crime of embezzlement is a felony under both Florida and federal law.
Learn More →Counterfeit Currency
Counterfeit currency statutes make it unlawful to possess fake currency in certain amounts as well as make it unlawful to possess devices used to make fake currency.
Learn More →Crypto Currency / Unlicense Money Exchange
Operating an unlicensed money exchange or engaging in illicit activities involving cryptocurrency without proper regulatory compliance can lead to severe legal penalties.
Learn More →Currency Reporting Crimes
Currency reporting crimes involve violations of laws requiring the reporting of large currency transactions. Federal law requires the reporting of currency transactions over certain thresholds, and failure to comply can result in criminal penalties.
Learn More →RICO
RICO (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act) violations involve engaging in a pattern of illegal activity as part of an enterprise, such as organized crime or gang activity.
Learn More →Racketeering
Racketeering involves engaging in a pattern of illegal activity conducted as part of an enterprise, which often includes crimes such as extortion, bribery, money laundering, and fraud.
Learn More →CCE Continuing Criminal Enterprise
Continuing Criminal Enterprise (CCE) involves organizing, supervising, or managing a series of drug-related offenses as part of a large-scale operation.
Learn More →Conspiracy
Conspiracy involves an agreement between two or more persons to commit a crime, with at least one overt act in furtherance. Florida and federal law impose penalties often tied to the underlying offense. Conspiracy does not require completion of the object crime.
Learn More →Mail Fraud
Mail fraud under 18 U.S.C. § 1341 involves using the U.S. mail to execute a scheme to defraud. It is a federal crime commonly charged in financial and healthcare fraud cases. Penalties can include up to 20 years. Often charged together with wire fraud.
Learn More →Federal Drug Conspiracy
Federal drug conspiracy under 21 U.S.C. § 846 involves an agreement to distribute or possess controlled substances. Penalties mirror the underlying trafficking offense. Conspiracy does not require the drugs to be possessed or distributed. Often charged in multi-defendant cases.
Learn More →Medicare Fraud
Medicare fraud involves submitting false or misleading claims to the Medicare program for reimbursement. Federal prosecutors in the Southern District of Florida aggressively pursue these cases. Penalties include substantial prison terms and restitution. Often charged with wire fraud and conspiracy.
Learn More →Public Corruption
Public corruption involves bribery, kickbacks, extortion, or other misconduct by public officials or those who corrupt them. Federal statutes include honest services fraud and bribery. Penalties are severe. These cases receive significant prosecutorial attention.
Learn More →Access Device Fraud
Access device fraud involves the fraudulent use of credit cards, debit cards, account numbers, or other devices to obtain money, goods, or services. 18 U.S.C. § 1029 and Florida law impose significant penalties. Often charged with identity theft.
Learn More →Perjury
Perjury offenses are charged after an individual takes an oath to tell the truth in an official proceeding, but is found to have lied. Official proceedings include trials, hearings and congressional inquiries. Both federal and Florida laws include heavy fines and severe criminal penalties.
Learn More →Obstruction Of Justice
Obstructing justice offenses often occur when an individual is said to have interfered with a federal or state agency's investigatory work or prosecution.
Learn More →Arson
Arson involves the willful and malicious burning of property, such as buildings, vehicles, or land. Penalties for arson are severe and typically include imprisonment ranging from a minimum of 5 years to a maximum of 20 years, along with heavy fines.
Learn More →Human Trafficking
Human trafficking is often referred to as a type of modern-day slavery.
Learn More →Stalking
Stalking involves repeatedly following, harassing, or threatening an individual, causing them fear or distress. Penalties for stalking are severe and typically include imprisonment ranging from a minimum of 1 year to a maximum of 5 years, along with heavy fines.
Learn More →Tampering
Tampering involves altering, damaging, or interfering with evidence, witnesses, or records to obstruct justice or influence the outcome of a legal proceeding.
Learn More →Trespassing
Trespassing in Florida involves entering or remaining on property without authorization. Degrees range from first-degree misdemeanor to felony for occupied structures or after warning. Often charged with burglary, domestic violence, or stalking-related conduct.
Learn More →Dealing in Stolen Property
Dealing in stolen property involves trafficking in or attempting to traffic in property that one knows or should know was stolen. Florida grades the offense by the value of the property. Defenses may challenge knowledge of the stolen character of the property.
Learn More →Request a Free Consultation
If you need assistance with a criminal defense matter, we are available to discuss your situation and explore how we may be able to help.