Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Brandon, FL

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Brandon, Florida?

  The local police station of Brandon, Florida, has provided (813)-247-8200 as the non-emergency contact number for reports that do not need immediate attention.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Brandon, Florida?

  The local police station at Brandon follows Florida laws for custody and release of police reports. In statute § 119.00, all requests for reports less than 60 days old must have a sworn statement, a copy of identification, and proof of exemption allowing access to the requested document. The records section permits the acquisition of police report online, in person, or by mail.

• What are the penalties of a domestic violence conviction in Brandon?

  Under Florida's domestic violence law, the penalties for the violation include imprisonment for a minimum of ten days for a first-time offender in Brandon, but this may take up to thirty years, depending on the circumstances. Florida Statute 741.281 may obligate a convicted person to face probation and counseling for a minimum of a year. Lastly, the law prohibits the offender from approaching or having contact with specified individuals by issuing a restraining order for a certain period.

• Can a convicted individual be exempted from registering in the felon registration in Brandon?

  Some circumstances may exempt a convicted person from registering as a felon in Brandon. Statute 775.13 does not apply to an offender who has had his civil rights restored, has received a full pardon for the offense, has been released from at least five years of sentence, or has been on parole or probation under the supervision of the U.S Parole Commission. Complying with the statute is unnecessary if he is designated to register as a sexual offender, predator, or career offender.

• How long do felony cases take in Brandon?

  The court process for a felony case can last up to several months, typically 90-180 days in Brandon. The period varies depending on the circumstance of the case and the comprehensive stages required in the proceeding. It includes the arrest, first appearance, arraignment, discovery and pre-trial proceedings, trial procedure, and sentencing.

• What should a person expect when facing federal criminal charges in Brandon?

  A federal agent contacts the offender through a request for an interview, a target letter, or by reaching acquaintances to gather evidence during the initial investigation. At the arraignment, the court formally tells the charges to the defendant and asks if the person pleads guilty or not guilty. The penalty for a federal conviction in Brandon can be a much longer sentence depending on the severity of the offense.

• What is the most prevalent crime in Brandon?

  Property crimes have been the most prevalent in the community of Brandon. The most reported type of property crime is theft, with a crime rate of 4.545. All the violations are breakdown into the number of crimes per 1,000 residents in a standard year. The common violent crime in the area is assault, with a 1.799 crime rate.

• What does a criminal defense lawyer do?

  Criminal defense attorneys provide help to those facing misdemeanor or felony criminal charges. The attorney will research the circumstances surrounding the charge and investigate the case on behalf of the client. This may involve talking to police, interviewing witnesses, determining a plea, and assessing possible sentences. With this information, the defense attorney can negotiate plea deals or navigate a court case on behalf of the client. In some cases, the attorney may get a case dismissed entirely, a reduction in bail or jail time, or probation or community service instead of prison.

• How do I know if I need a criminal attorney?

  Any criminal charge that could result in a prison sentence requires the help of a criminal defense lawyer. This applies to both misdemeanor and felony charges, including:

  Misdemeanors

  • Petty theft
  • Public intoxication
  • Simple assault
  • Disorderly conduct
  • Vandalism
  • Reckless driving

  Felonies

  • Murder
  • Rape
  • Kidnapping
  • Aggravated assault
  • Specific types of fraud
  • Possession of certain types of drugs

• What steps should I take after being charged with a crime?

  The first thing to do after being charged with a crime is to contact a criminal defense attorney. It is best to hire a defense attorney as soon as possible after being released from arrest, and before an arraignment takes place. The attorney will explain charges in detail, and possible consequences, to help you decide whether a plea deal or a jury trial is the best option. Most attorneys offer free consultations to discuss the circumstances of a criminal case and how they're able to assist. Speaking with a number of defense attorneys before hiring one can increase the likelihood of finding the right fit, and getting the best defense possible.

• What if I can’t afford a criminal defense lawyer?

  All Americans are afforded the right to hire an attorney to act as a defense in a legal case. However, not everyone can afford one. If an attorney isn’t in a defendant’s budget, and the defendant’s income meets designated state or local thresholds, the court system will provide a public defender. This attorney usually works on cases pro bono or without any fees paid by the defendant. Many public defenders have a high caseload, which can limit the amount of time they are able to devote to each case. In most situations, hiring a dedicated criminal defense lawyer ensures the best outcome. This is particularly true in more serious felony cases that can result in a significant prison sentence without the involvement of a skilled, experienced defense attorney.

• Why hire a criminal defense attorney?

  Working with a criminal defense attorney is the best way to minimize the ramifications of committing or being accused of a crime. Criminal attorneys thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding a case to prove innocence or inspire reasonable doubt in a jury. Criminal defense lawyers also are better prepared to negotiate with the prosecutors. Due to the high cost and logistics involved with taking a case to trial, many prosecutors are willing to reduce sentences in exchange for avoiding a jury trial. An experienced criminal attorney understands what would be a reasonable deal for a specific criminal charge, and will negotiate it on behalf of the defendant.

• Are legal fees for criminal defense tax deductible?

  Whether legal fees from a criminal case can be deducted on a tax return depends on the circumstances. If criminal charges pertain to activities related to a trade or business, attorney fees can be deducted on a business tax return, as they are considered an expense associated with the normal course of business. However, personal legal fees cannot be deducted.