Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Sarasota, FL

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number of the Sarasota Police Department is 941-316-1199.

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

  To make a public request for a record in the city of Sarasota, you can contact its Records Unit by phone at 941-263-6045 or by fax at 941-263-6047. You can also email your request to spdpublicrecords@sarasotafl.gov. The Records Unit is located at 2099 Adams Lane and is open to the public on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• What are the penalties for violent crimes in Sarasota?

  The penalties for violent crimes in Sarasota vary depending on the crime committed and the victim. First-degree murder, for instance, is a capital felony, which means it is subject to life in prison or the death penalty. Second-degree murder is a first-degree felony and is potentially subject to life in prison.

• What are the possible defenses for violent crimes in Sarasota?

  In Sarasota, potential violent crime defenses include insanity, mistaken identity, lack of intent, self-defense, and duress. However, the availability of these defenses and their effectiveness depend on a case's specific circumstances. It is always recommended to consult with a Sarasota criminal defense attorney to understand the best possible strategy in a case.

• What are the penalties for probation violations in Sarasota?

  In Sarasota, the penalties for probation violations depend on the type of violation. In most cases, people with one technical violation will not need to spend time in prison, but multiple violations can result in a prison sentence. Substantive violations can also lead to another criminal trial and potentially more severe penalties. If you are facing probation violation charges, hiring an experienced criminal defense lawyer is important.

• Is reckless driving a crime in Sarasota?

  Yes, reckless driving is considered a criminal misdemeanor and is a crime in Sarasota. Willfully disregarding the safety of other people and property is considered reckless driving and can result in a year-long prison sentence if convicted. Some examples of reckless driving behaviors in Sarasota include driving 30 miles per hour or more above the speed limit, passing a stopped school bus with its lights flashing, and committing aggressive driving behavior.

• What are some common offenses related to obstruction of justice in Sarasota?

  In Sarasota, some common offenses related to obstruction of justice include resisting a police officer, impersonating a police officer, supplying tools to help an inmate escape from jail, fleeing or avoiding a law enforcement officer, and intentionally failing to offer medical attention to crime victims.

• 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.