Being charged with a crime can lead to devastating consequences for you and your loved ones. With your future and freedom at stake, it is important to seek the help of an Orlando criminal defense lawyer who can safeguard your rights while preparing a solid defense.
All criminal offenses can affect your life if you do not have proper representation. Incarceration, fines, loss of rights, and a permanent criminal record are some of the consequences that can come with a conviction.
At Z. Hernandez Law, we understand that being arrested or facing criminal charges can be frightening and overwhelming. A qualified Orlando criminal defense attorney can help you navigate the complexities of the criminal justice system. If you’re facing charges in the Greater Orlando, FL area, contact us today to explore your legal options.
What Does a Criminal Defense Attorney Do?
After being arrested, many alleged offenders are concerned that hiring a defense lawyer may make them look guilty. However, having legal representation is a constitutional right that can improve your chances of fighting a criminal charge. Looking at an extreme example, when analyzing the effect of having legal counsel, a study run by RAND found that lawyers reduced their client’s murder conviction rate by 19%.
Some of the work that a defense attorney in Orlando may perform include, but are not limited to:
- Protecting your rights: the criminal justice system is complex. For that reason, an experienced defense attorney must ensure that your rights are respected at each stage of the process.
- Investigating your case: the goal of a quality Orlando criminal lawyer is to prepare a strong and compelling defense for their clients. To do so, attorneys research the case to find the most suitable legal options for their clients.
- Negotiating your charges: criminal defense lawyers may also be able to negotiate with the prosecution to reduce or have your charges dropped. It is important to know that this strategy varies on a case by case basis.
- Preparing your defense: with the background knowledge of your case, a criminal lawyer in Orlando can work on preparing an aggressive defense. As part of this process, they may include compelling evidence or talk to witnesses to support your case.
- Representing you in court: whether it is at a trial or hearing, the best Orlando criminal attorneys have litigation skills that allow them to present your case in court.
Cases our Orlando criminal defense lawyers handle
At Z. Hernandez Law, we are committed to providing personalized and aggressive legal representation. Orlando-based criminal defense attorney Zarina Hernandez zealously represents clients charged with:
- Assault
- Battery
- Domestic violence
- Drug crimes
- DUI
- Misdemeanor offenses
- Theft
- Traffic violations
- Violation of probation
- Violent crimes
- White-collar crimes
If you or a loved one have been arrested in Orange County or Greater Orlando, we may be able to help. Call (407) 900-8490 to schedule a consultation with a criminal justice lawyer.
How to Find a Qualified Criminal Defense Lawyer in Orlando
Having a knowledgeable lawyer by your side can improve the chances of a positive outcome. Below are some things that can help you find the best criminal defense attorney for your case:
- Has experience in criminal law: being accused of a crime can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. A lawyer familiar with Florida’s laws and experienced in criminal cases can provide you with the best legal avenues for your case.
- Handles cases like yours: to serve our clients better, Z. Hernandez Law focuses on misdemeanors and certain felony crimes. When seeking legal representation, you need to make sure that your attorney works with cases similar to yours. This can assure you that he or she has the experience and the necessary skills to handle your case.
- Practices law locally: in addition to the convenience of finding a criminal defense attorney near you, a local lawyer will be familiar with the specific rules and protocols of the court.
- Is committed to helping you: in such stressful times, you may need a compassionate lawyer that helps you pilot through the justice system. At Z. Hernandez Law, our defense attorneys are committed to fighting for you and making this process as smooth as possible.
If you want to explore how we can help you with your case, send us a message or call us at (407) 900-8490.
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: No attorney can claim to be the best lawyer in general nor for any specific legal matter. Z. Hernandez Law does not claim to be the best. The purpose of this content is to provide general information to Floridians about how to find the right lawyer for their specific case and situation. The above, nor any contents on this website should be taken as legal advice for any individual legal matter or situation.
Speak to an Orlando Criminal Lawyer Today
No criminal charge or arrest should be taken lightly. Even a conviction for a misdemeanor offense can lead to hefty fines, probation, jail time, and impediments to future opportunities. If you have been arrested or accused of a crime, seeking legal counsel may be in your best interest.
Z. Hernandez Law is a law firm representing clients facing criminal charges in Orlando, Ocala, Maitland, Kissimmee, Oviedo, Deltona, and surrounding areas of Orange County, FL. Call (407) 900-8490 today or fill out our contact form to book an appointment with an Orlando criminal defense lawyer.
FAQs about Criminal Charges in Orlando, FL
According to Florida Statute §806.13, criminal mischief is considered a third-degree felony if:
– The damage to the property equals or surpasses $1,000.
– There are previous convictions for criminal mischief.
– The damages were caused to a church, synagogue or place of worship.
When a person intentionally damages the property of someone else and the damages are less than $1,000, criminal mischief offenses are charged as misdemeanors. You commit a misdemeanor of the second-degree if the property damage is $200 or less.
Causing damage between $200 and less than $1,000 is considered a first-degree misdemeanor. Keep in mind that prior convictions can increase the severity of your charges.
As its name suggests, a violent crime in Florida is a criminal offense that involves the use of force or deadly weapons to harm (or threaten to harm) other people or property. Examples of violent crimes that we handle include:
– Assault
– Battery
– Robbery
– Burglary
Under Florida law, misdemeanors are punishable by up to one year of incarceration and a maximum fine of $1,000. Whether or not an offender serves jail time or probation depends on the sentence imposed by the judge
Florida classifies a first DUI offense as second-degree misdemeanor. As a result, if you are convicted of a DUI in Orlando, you may face fines, and incarceration, among other penalties. Consequent DUI offenses can result in more severe charges.
