Criminal Defense Attorneys in Bradenton

Don’t Assume that You Will Face a Conviction

As a criminal defendant, it may seem like you are in a vulnerable position.  After all, the entire criminal litigation process is, in many ways, dehumanizing, particularly at the arrest phase — for example, you may have been verbally (and perhaps even physically) intimidated by law enforcement officers in an attempt to get you to disclose incriminating information. This can make defendants feel powerless.

In Florida, there are a number of defenses that you may be able to utilize, including but not limited to the following:

• Self-defense
• Lack of intent
• Mistake
• Consent
• Mental incapacity
• Duress
• Intoxication

For example, suppose that you have been charged with the theft of your next-door neighbor’s unlocked bike.  As it turns out, however, you and the neighbor have the same bike model, and you accidentally took their bike thinking that it was yours.  Under these circumstances, you do not have the “criminal intent” necessary to be found guilty.

Now, any defense argument you make is further strengthened by the fact that criminal litigation must adhere to the “beyond a reasonable doubt” standard, which requires that the prosecution prove all the elements of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt (i.e., more than 99% likelihood of truth). If you raise even a slight doubt as to any of the prosecution’s claims, then you can avoid criminal liability entirely.

Our Bradenton Criminal Defense Attorneys Handle a Wide Variety of Crimes

Licensed to practice in the state courts of Florida, our team is prepared to help defend you in all types of criminal matters, including but not limited to:

Driving Under the Influence (DUI)

DUI penalties can have severe and long-lasting effects on your privilege to drive, as well as impact your eligibility for certain occupations. DUI is a complicated area in the law in that there are usually two actions pending against you at the same time: An administrative action by the DMV and a criminal case brought by the State of Florida. We do everything we can to place you in the best position possible.

Drunk Driving (DUI)

When an individual is facing DUI charges in Florida, time is of the essence.  At Fowler Law Group, our legal team acts quickly to review your case and identify the best courses of action available.  DUI charges can have serious and long-lasting repercussions, and we take all actions possible to protect our clients’ legal rights and driving privileges.

Traffic Crimes

Most police/citizen contact occurs on the road, and most interactions happen as a result of traffic stops. Merely because you were given a citation in lieu of being arrested does not mean that the courts will treat your offense as minor.

Drug Crimes

The Bradenton criminal defense attorneys at Fowler Law Group represent clients who are facing all types of drug charges, ranging from simple misdemeanor possession of marijuana or drug paraphernalia to felony sale of a controlled substance or drug trafficking. As former prosecutors, we know that Florida takes a strong stance against drug-related crime. Drug charges have the potential to carry serious consequences, including mandatory minimum jail sentences and license suspensions. In addition to the judicial penalties, drug-related offenses can hinder your ability to pursue higher education, secure employment, or work in certain professions. When charged with a drug-related offense, there is a lot at stake.

Battery (Domestic)

Whether you were charged with simple, domestic, or felony battery, it is important to have an attorney who understands and can guide you through the process. A conviction for battery can result in jail time, anger management courses, and other harsh sanctions. Regardless of the type of battery you are charged with, you need an attorney who will advocate for your rights.

Theft Crimes

While seemingly minor, theft offenses should be handled very carefully, as they are “crimes of dishonesty” that can have long-lasting impacts. Generally speaking, a theft occurs when someone is intentionally deprived of their property, even if it is only temporary.

Violations of Probation

Violations of probation often carry serious consequences, with incarceration being the preferred outcome of the state. The length of the incarceration varies depending on what underlying crime you were placed on probation for. A judge could potentially sentence you for the maximum term of incarceration that the charge allows.

Juvenile Crimes

When juveniles enter the justice system, it can be a frightening and harrowing experience for both the juvenile and their parents. We work collaboratively with parents, the Department of Juvenile Justice, and the juvenile themselves to help prevent bad decisions from impacting their life.

Sex Crimes

Sex crimes are treated very seriously in the State of Florida. The defense to such crimes should be taken just as seriously, as your life as you know it could hang in the balance. A conviction for a sex crime could result in being designated as a sex offender and having to join the sex offender registry. Convictions such as these are often fatal to careers and opportunities available in higher education.

Sealing & Expunging of Records

Individuals who have found themselves afoul of the law realize the ramifications of having a criminal record. Finding housing, obtaining employment, and passing background checks all become a challenge. The State of Florida allows for a one-time sealing or expunging of certain criminal offenses from an individual’s criminal record.

FAQs: Fighting Charges with the Help of a Bradenton Criminal Defense Attorney

If I Get Convicted, Can I Serve Community Service Instead of Jail Time?

It depends on the facts of your case. While Florida judges typically will not impose a sentence of community service when a significant amount of jail time is on the table, it may be an option in some misdemeanor cases. There may be other ways for you to avoid jail time as well, and our Bradenton criminal defense attorneys will do everything they can to protect your freedom.

Do I Really Need to Hire a Bradenton Criminal Defense Attorney?

The short answer to this question is, “yes.” Whether you are being charged with a misdemeanor or a felony, you have a lot at stake in your criminal case. Beyond fines, probation, and incarceration, a criminal conviction can impact your life in many other ways. For example, you can find it more challenging to land a job, you can lose custody of your children, and you can lose other fundamental rights — potentially for the rest of your life.

Also, it is important to understand that defending against criminal charges in Florida state court is not easy. If you do not know the law and understand how the Constitution protects you, you will be at a significant disadvantage. Hiring an experienced Bradenton criminal defense attorney allows you to level the playing field, and it gives you the best chance to avoid unnecessary consequences.

Should I Talk to the Police Now that I Have Been Arrested?

No, under no circumstances should you talk to the police without your attorney present. You have the right to remain silent, and you need to exercise it. You should let your attorney decide when (and if) he or she will communicate with the police on your behalf. If the police contact you directly, politely refuse to answer any questions and provide them with your attorney’s contact information.

If I Know I Committed a Crime, Should I Just Plead Guilty?

No, absolutely not. Pleading guilty to a crime has serious and long-term consequences. Regardless of the circumstances of your case, you may have defenses available, and you owe it to yourself to talk to a Bradenton criminal defense attorney. Even if you think you committed a crime, you might not actually be guilty of the crime with which you are being charged. Additionally, even if you committed a crime, a defense attorney may still be able to prevent the prosecution from proving your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

Is Everything I Tell My Attorney Strictly Confidential?

Yes, all information you share with your Bradenton criminal defense attorney is protected by attorney-client privilege. There are only very limited exceptions — and these exceptions do not apply in the vast majority of cases. Therefore, you can (and should) tell your attorney everything you know related to the charges against you. This will give your attorney the best chance to present the strongest possible defense on your behalf.

Our Bradenton Criminal Defense Attorneys Can Help

Dedicated to the principles of respect, reputation, and the protection of your rights, you can rest assured that we will leave no stone unturned in our evaluation of your case. Our team has the experience, compassion, and skills to actively defend your rights.

James A. Fowler Jr., the founder of Fowler Law Group, has worked as an Assistant State Attorney in both Sarasota and Manatee counties. Our lawyers have the unique ability to analyze cases as prosecutors in an effort to anticipate the state’s arguments in court. Their time as prosecutors helped give them the experience to handle a wide range of cases.

If you are being investigated by law enforcement or have been arrested for a criminal offense, it is not in your best interest to attempt to defend yourself. Complicated rules of procedure and evidence are in place, and the cards are stacked against you if you cannot understand these complex legal issues.

Call Fowler Law Group at (941) 900-3100 for a free consultation. We will happily help you understand the process, regardless of if you choose to move forward with us or not.