Orlando Criminal Defense Lawyers

We Are Expert Orlando Criminal Defense Attorneys

We are here to fight for you – and your reputation.

Hiring an experienced criminal lawyer is crucial for criminal defendants facing charges, as they can provide the skilled defense needed to protect your rights and future. Let’s start with what county you were arrested in or what your charges are. Our firm has extensive experience representing criminal defendants in Orlando and throughout Florida.

What County is Your Criminal Case In?

We help people in various counties throughout Florida, including (but not limited to) the following:

Our firm has extensive experience handling criminal cases in Orange and Osceola County, as well as Orange County, giving us strong local expertise.

What Are Your Rights When Arrested in Orlando?

When you are arrested in Florida, understanding your rights can make a significant difference in how your case progresses. The most critical rights include the right to remain silent, which protects you from self-incrimination, and the right to have an attorney present during questioning. It’s important to exercise these rights immediately to avoid making statements or decisions that may harm your defense. You also have the right to know the charges against you, ensuring you’re fully aware of the accusations before moving forward. In Florida, the Speedy Trial Rule specifies that a defendant must be brought to trial within 90 days for a misdemeanor and 175 days for a felony, starting from the date of arrest.

To ensure your rights are protected throughout the criminal process, it is crucial to seek legal counsel as soon as possible. An experienced legal counsel can advise you on your options, help you understand the legal process, and protect your interests at every stage.

At Fighter Law, we emphasize the importance of safeguarding your rights at every step of the criminal defense process. From your first interaction with law enforcement, you may be facing a complex legal system designed to secure a conviction. We guide you through this process, ensuring your rights are upheld and any violations are identified and addressed in your defense strategy. Our board-certified attorneys fight relentlessly for fair treatment and the best possible outcomes.

Understanding the Florida Court System

Navigating the Florida court system can be daunting, especially if you are facing criminal charges or involved in family law matters. The court system in Florida is structured to handle a wide range of cases, from minor misdemeanors to serious felonies. At the base are the county courts, which deal with misdemeanors, small claims, and traffic offenses. More serious criminal cases, such as felonies and complex family law disputes, are handled by the circuit courts. If a party wishes to challenge a decision made in these lower courts, the case may be taken to one of the district courts of appeal. At the top of the hierarchy is the Florida Supreme Court, which reviews cases of significant public importance and constitutional questions.

Understanding which court will hear your case is crucial, as each level has its own procedures and requirements. An experienced Orlando criminal defense attorney can help you make sense of the legal process, ensuring that your rights are protected at every stage. Whether you are dealing with a criminal charge, a family law issue, or an appeal, having knowledgeable legal representation familiar with the local court system can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. The right defense attorney will guide you through the complexities of the court system, advocate on your behalf, and work tirelessly to achieve the best possible result for your situation.

How Florida’s Criminal Defense Process Works

The Florida criminal defense process begins with an arrest or notice of charges and proceeds through several critical stages. After the initial hearing, where bail may be set, discovery and pretrial negotiations take center stage. Evidence is exchanged, and both sides may discuss plea deals or prepare for trial. The criminal process in Florida involves specific criminal procedure steps, including the opportunity to negotiate a plea bargain before trial as a common legal strategy to potentially reduce charges or sentencing outcomes. If the case proceeds to trial, it culminates in a verdict and, if necessary, appeals to higher courts.

Navigating this process can be overwhelming without the proper guidance. Fighter Law takes a proactive approach, ensuring you are informed and prepared for each step. Our team reviews evidence meticulously, identifies weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and builds a compelling defense. With decades of experience and board-certified trial lawyers, we are equipped to handle your case with precision and care, giving you a strong ally in a complex legal system.

How we fight criminal charges for our clients

Criminal defense law is a broad and demanding area of law that can be confusing to non-lawyers.  We break it down and explain how the law and process applies to each individual client – so you don’t have to worry or stress over what is otherwise a very daunting and intimidating process.

Rest assured, criminal defense is our primary practice area and we are very experienced in trials and motions specifically on criminal cases. We know the processes and the prosecutors and the judges. We have been in business since 2011 and you are in good hands here – our online reviews confirm it.  Below is some more general information on the process.

When you are looking for a criminal defense lawyer to represent you in court, the reputation of the lawyer and  their skill with strategy are important to giving you the best odds for a positive outcome in your case. Keep in mind everyone has the right to representation.  If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed to represent you.  That’s usually a public defender.  There are a lot of good public defenders out there.  However, allowing a public defender to represent you may not be your best option.

A private attorney has an additional incentive to working hard on your case – money.  Your case deserves the attention required to get you the best possible outcome.  Your attorney needs to care about your case.  Your attorney should fight for you – and explore all possible defenses and strategies.  In every criminal case, the prosecution has the burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, and you are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Sometimes trial is your best option – but it’s not usually the only one.  Avoiding trial – and lessening your chances of a lengthy prison sentence – might be something that is in your best interests.  If you are being given a bad offer or one that is not acceptable to you, trial may be the only way.  If that is the case, you can rest assured that we will be ready.  We are not afraid of going to trial and we have done many in the past.  We are experienced and we are fighters.  That benefits you, our client.

Let us help you build your defense and navigate all the nuances of the criminal justice system to get you the best possible outcome. To see more about forming a defense and how we can help you please see our page on all available Florida defenses.

What charge(s) are you facing?

Select from the below charges. We have experience in them all.

What defenses do I have?

Here is a list of the most common defenses used in criminal cases. Prosecutors and defense attorneys are all aware of them and when they might apply.  But a good criminal defense attorney will be able to figure out which apply to your case and plan a strategy around them. Our dedicated legal team uses their extensive legal knowledge to analyze the applicable law in your case and determine the best defense strategy for you. We go through this list with all of our clients and explore all possible defenses as a team with you.

1. Alibi – the classic criminal defense.  You basically have a great explanation of how “it wasn’t you” or “you were someplace else at the time of the crime and can prove it.”
2. Entrapment – this one may require the filing of a motion and is common in drug and sex crimes.
3. Duress or Necessity – if someone made you do it, or you had no choice but to commit a crime or face harm yourself, this defense may apply.
4. Stand Your Ground – this is a more commonly used defense in Florida.  We have filed these motions very successfully in the past and have experience in handling them.
5. Justifiable Use of Non-Deadly Force – Non-deadly force means force not likely to cause death or great bodily harm.
6. Insanity – this defense may require an expert psychiatric or psychological evaluation.
7. Independent Act – this is a more complex defense that requires that the act that constituted the crime was not what you intended – it was an “independent act.”  Not too common – but a good defense when it applies.
8. Voluntary Intoxication – this is an old defense that only applies to crimes committed before 1999.

Why Board Certification Matters in Criminal Defense

Board certification is the Florida Bar’s highest recognition of a lawyer’s professionalism, experience, and expertise in a specific area of law. This certification demonstrates that an attorney has undergone rigorous testing, peer evaluation, and continuing education to be recognized as a leader in their field. For clients, it provides confidence in the attorney’s ability to handle complex cases with skill and dedication.

The attorneys at Fighter Law have dedicated their entire legal career to criminal defense and are recognized as experienced attorneys in the field. Our team has also been recognized by organizations such as National Trial Lawyers for their excellence and commitment to the profession.

At Fighter Law, board certification isn’t just a credential; it’s a testament to our commitment to excellence in criminal defense. Thomas Fighter was named Florida’s Board Certified Lawyer of the Year in 2015, underscoring the firm’s dedication to quality representation. With us, you have more than a lawyer – you have a certified advocate with the knowledge and skills to protect your rights and fight for the best possible result.

How do I find the right criminal defense lawyer?

In this digital age that we are all living in, Google and other search engines have become indispensable tools for when people are looking for reliable information about various services, including finding a criminal defense lawyer and what defenses may be available. Before a person becomes a client, they frequently turn to search engines to gather information, evaluate options, and ultimately hire the right attorney to protect their rights and interests – or the rights and interests of the person who needs representation. When it comes to hiring a criminal defense lawyer, this is what I have found to be most important to most people who are looking to hire a criminal defense attorney:

Understanding Criminal Law and Defenses

We recognize that people want to understand the law that applies to the jurisdiction or state or city in which they were arrested, or where their loved one was arrested.  Unless they are personally referred to an attorney by a friend or family member, they usually look for a criminal defense lawyer on Google to gain some understanding of criminal law. Our firm handles a wide range of criminal matters, including cases that may result in jail time or a criminal conviction, and we are experienced in defending clients facing these serious consequences. Often, people search for basic information to educate themselves about the legal process, different types of criminal charges, potential penalties, and their rights. Common search queries include “What does a criminal defense lawyer do?” or “Types of criminal charges and defenses.” This is often a good thing, because it allows sophisticated clients to prepare questions in advance for the attorneys.

Finding a Qualified Attorney Criminal Defense Lawyer

When you are facing criminal charges in Orlando, FL, choosing the right criminal defense lawyer can be one of the most important decisions you make. A qualified Orlando criminal defense attorney brings not only a deep understanding of criminal law but also practical experience with the local court system and its unique procedures. The best criminal defense lawyers have a proven track record of successfully defending clients against a wide range of criminal accusations, from misdemeanors to serious felonies.

To find the right defense attorney for your case, look for a law firm with a team of experienced criminal defense lawyers who are dedicated to protecting your rights. Consider their experience practicing criminal law in Orlando and Central Florida, their familiarity with local judges and prosecutors, and their willingness to take your case to trial if necessary. Reputation matters—seek out attorneys with strong client testimonials, recognition from professional organizations, and a history of positive outcomes in criminal cases.

Many reputable law firms in Orlando, such as Joshi Law Firm, PA, and Ali & Blankner, offer free consultations, allowing you to discuss your case and evaluate your options without obligation. During your consultation, pay attention to the attorney’s communication style, their understanding of your situation, and their proposed strategy for your defense. By doing your research and selecting a highly qualified Orlando criminal defense attorney, you can ensure that you receive the best possible legal representation and maximize your chances of a favorable outcome in the court system.

Specialization and Expertise

When searching for a criminal defense lawyer, individuals often look for attorneys who specialize in specific areas of criminal law, such as DUI defense, drug offenses, white-collar crimes, or domestic violence. Queries like “criminal defense lawyer for drug charges” or “DUI attorney near me” tell us that people recognize the value of hiring a lawyer with specialized knowledge and experience in their particular case. They seek attorneys who can offer tailored strategies and understand the nuances of the legal challenges they (or their loved ones) may be facing. Again, we check these boxes and seek to provide the very best for a presentation for every one of our clients.

Local Criminal Defense Lawyer Representation

Geographical proximity plays a crucial role in the decision-making process when hiring a criminal defense attorney. Many individuals search for lawyers in their local area to ensure accessibility, easy communication, and familiarity with local courts, judges, prosecutors and procedures. Searches like “criminal defense lawyer in [State, County or City]” or “criminal defense attorney near me” show the preference for local representation. Clients also often look for attorneys who are licensed to practice in their specific jurisdiction, recognizing the importance of having a lawyer who is well-versed in the local laws and regulations.

Cost and Affordability

Budgetary and financial considerations are important to most people when selecting a criminal defense lawyer. People frequently search for information regarding the cost of legal services, payment options, and potential discounts. Queries like “affordable criminal defense attorney” or “free legal aid for criminal charges” indicate that cost-conscious individuals are actively seeking affordable representation. Some may also search for information on pro bono services or public defenders, especially if they face financial constraints. While we are certainly sensitive to this fact, we recognize that we are not the most affordable option for most people. With our training, experience, and education in the local rules, and our knowledge of the law, as well as personal experiences and relationships with prosecutors and judges, we are usually more expensive than most private criminal defense law firms out there. However, most of our clients will agree that, like a very good/specialized physician, we are worth the money. We want to bring value to all of our clients, and earn on our fees.

Reputation and Credibility

At Fighter Law, we have a strong reputation within the legal community and positive testimonials from past clients. You are in good hands with us. In your research, you will see that we are all respected by judges, prosecutors, and other attorneys in town.

Communication Skills

We understand that effective communication is crucial in your case. We know you want an attorney who can clearly explain legal concepts, procedures, and potential outcomes in a way that you can understand. That is what we strive for here. Additionally, you can expect prompt responses to your inquiries and updates on your case’s progress throughout the process.

Conclusion

Google, Yahoo, and Bing searches related to hiring a criminal defense lawyer reflect the priorities and concerns of individuals navigating the legal system. People seek knowledge about criminal law, they search for qualified attorneys with relevant expertise, they prioritize local representation, and they consider affordability when making their selection. We understand these concerns of our potential clients and we want to tailor their experience to meet these concerns and needs. It is truly wonderful to have so much information available to us at our fingertips and we often encourage our clients to leverage the wealth of information available through online searches (when appropriate – not always!) to help us prepare the best legal defense for them in their case. After all, we consider the defense of your case or your loved ones case to be a team effort. Not only is it the responsibility of the attorney here and the paralegal, but also that of the client to provide us with the information that can best defend the criminal charges that are pending.