Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Clearwater, FL

FAQs

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

  To reach the Clearwater Police Department, call (727) 562-4242.

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

  To obtain a police report from the Clearwater Police Department, call (727) 562-4242 for more information.

• Can criminal defense attorneys in Clearwater help with a "No Contact" order?

  Yes, they can. There have been instances when a Clearwater court imposed a No Contact order upon parties who wanted to have it removed. This especially affects people involved in domestic disputes who will be left homeless or forced away from their families for the entire duration that the case is still active. Criminal defense attorneys can work to have the order modified if not entirely lifted.

• How much is it going to cost to hire a criminal defense attorney in Clearwater?

  It mostly depends on the type of case they need to work on and their professional experience, but the average cost you can expect is around $2,000 to $3,500 for first-degree misdemeanors. The cost climbs exponentially higher for first and second-degree felonies at $35,000 to $100,000. There are always affordable lawyers in Clearwater, but they come with a caveat that you may get an overworked one who's juggling many different cases.

• How do criminal defense lawyers in Clearwater help juvenile delinquents?

  Criminal defense lawyers in Clearwater help protect minors in juvenile courts from harsh consequences that may further push them into a life of crime and desperation. Instead of being put in stressful environments such as prison cells, the offending minor can be placed in rehabilitative programs, counseling, or therapy to correct errant behavior.

• Do you need a criminal defense attorney in Clearwater even if you're only charged with a misdemeanor?

  Yes. Any criminal case that is not properly handled by a lawyer in Clearwater may end in the defendant suffering a sentence that is too harsh or being followed by their mistake throughout the rest of their lives. Criminal acts, even misdemeanors, stay on an offender's records permanently unless they are able to have it overturned. This means potential employers, partners, loan officers, and the general public will be able to see this.

• Can criminal defense attorneys help with the bond amount in Clearwater?

  Yes, they can, by requesting that the bond be set according to the defendant's financial capabilities. However, the final decision will still depend on the judge who will have to consider many things, such as the likelihood of the defendant fleeing, the severity of the crime they committed, and whether or not they are a danger to themselves and others if allowed back out on the streets.

• 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.