Sarasota Criminal Defense Attorney

Criminal Defense Attorney in Sarasota, FL

Whether you are accused of a felony or a misdemeanor in the Sarasota area, you should obtain legal representation as soon as possible. It can be important to hire an experienced attorney even before you have been formally charged. At Hanlon Law, Sarasota criminal defense lawyer Will Hanlon handles a wide range of these matters, including the defense of drug crimes, DUI, violent crimes, theft crimes, white collar crimes, sex crimes, domestic violence, and probation violations. We fight tenaciously to make sure that the voice of a defendant is heard.

Criminal Defense

Regardless of the specific crime with which you have been charged, you should bear in mind that the charges against you need to be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. Every element that makes up the crime must be established beyond a reasonable doubt. Reasonable doubt is a tough standard. However, prosecutors usually file charges when they believe that they can win. Anything that you say to a prosecutor in trying to secure a plea deal could be a self-incriminating statement that gets you into more trouble. Accordingly, you should retain an experienced attorney who can look at the circumstances and the specific charges. Your attorney can develop a defense strategy, handle interactions with the prosecution on your behalf, advise you on how to protect your rights, and collect evidence to bolster your case.

Drug Crimes

Drug crimes are charged in connection with various activities surrounding controlled substances like heroin, marijuana, cocaine, GHB, ecstasy, Fentanyl, and many others. Sometimes a defendant is charged with simple possession of a controlled substance. The type of controlled substance may affect the penalty. Other drug crimes may involve trafficking controlled substances. Drug trafficking is punished severely, and it carries a mandatory minimum prison sentence if a threshold amount of the drug is involved. You should immediately retain a criminal defense attorney in the Sarasota area if you are facing a drug trafficking charge.

DUI

You may face DUI charges in Florida if the prosecutor believes that they can show that you were operating a vehicle with a BAC of .08% or greater, or you were impaired because of drinking alcohol or doing drugs. A first offense DUI can entail incarceration, a license suspension, fines, and the installation of an ignition interlock device. Generally, the penalties are steeper for subsequent offenses during the lookback period, or offenses that cause injuries. Being charged with a DUI can be unnerving, but a Sarasota criminal defense lawyer can help you investigate the circumstances surrounding the stop and determine whether you have a substantive or procedural defense.

Violent Crimes

In Florida, violent crimes that are charged include murder, rape, aggravated assault, aggravated battery, and robbery. These crimes carry harsh penalties, such as incarceration for years and hefty fines. Certain elements must be shown beyond a reasonable doubt for violent criminal charges, and there may be many ways for a Sarasota criminal defense attorney to attack them. Under Florida Statute section 782.04, first-degree murder is the unlawful killing of a person when there are specific circumstances in place. It must be perpetrated from a premeditated design to cause the death and must be committed by someone who is also engaged in perpetrating or trying to perpetrate certain other felonies, such as arson or sexual battery.

Theft Crimes

Theft is charged under Florida Statute section 812.014 as petit theft or grand theft. There are several degrees of grand theft and two degrees of petit theft. The classification is determined by the value of the funds or property that are involved. However, all theft crimes require a showing that you knowingly took, tried to take, used, or tried to use another person's property with the intention of permanently or temporarily keeping the victim from using or benefiting from the property or of using it for your own purposes. In order to establish grand theft in any degree, the prosecutor will need to establish the value of the property beyond a reasonable doubt. In some cases, it may be possible for a criminal defense lawyer in Sarasota to attack the value claimed as a defense against a grand theft charge.

White Collar Crimes

White collar crimes are usually nonviolent crimes that involve an intent to deceive. They can include public officers' offenses, pyramid schemes, Ponzi schemes, embezzlement, counterfeiting, racketeering, and bribery. There are enhanced penalties for certain white collar crimes, as set forth under the White Collar Crime Victim Protection Act. Under this law, an aggravated white collar crime involves engaging in at least two white collar crimes with the same or similar intents, results, accomplices, victims, or methods of commission, or two white collar crimes that are otherwise interrelated by distinguishing characteristics and are not isolated. It is a first-degree felony if you perpetrate an aggravated white collar crime in which you victimized 10 or more elderly people, victimized 20 or more people, or victimized the state government or political subdivisions.

Sex Crimes

There are many sex crimes for which you can be subject to a lifelong requirement that you register as a sex offender. This is a serious penalty, which can affect where you work, where you live, and what you do for a living. We vigorously defend people accused of child pornography, sexual battery, lewd or lascivious crimes, sexual misconduct, prostitution, and other offenses. What must be shown depends on the specific sex crime with which you are charged. For example, Florida Statute section 794.011 provides that sexual battery is perpetrated when someone has nonconsensual vaginal, anal, or oral contact with somebody else, either with a sexual organ or with an object.

Domestic Violence

Domestic violence is a criminal charge that can be brought when the perpetrator and the victim have a family or household relationship. You can be charged with domestic violence if you are accused of assaulting, battering, sexually assaulting, stalking, kidnapping, or falsely imprisoning a family or household member. What does it mean to be a family or household member? This type of relationship exists between spouses, ex-spouses, relatives by marriage or blood, people who live together like family or who previously lived together, and people who are co-parents.

Child Abuse

A crime related to domestic violence is child abuse. Child abuse is a serious charge that can be brought not only against parents but also against anyone who perpetrates intentional injurious acts against minors. Aggravated child abuse is a first-degree felony that is charged if you perpetrated aggravated battery on a child. It can also be charged if you willfully torture, maliciously punish, or knowingly or willfully abuse a minor such that you cause a permanent disability, permanent disfigurement, or great bodily harm. A Sarasota criminal defense lawyer at Hanlon Law can work to help you try to avoid the harsh consequences of a conviction. In some situations, these may involve a prison term of up to 30 years and a fine of up to $10,000.

Probation Violations

Probation is not a right. You should not assume that you will be granted probation, and if you are granted probation, you will need to meet certain conditions to stay out of jail. Community supervision is another name for probation, and it can come with numerous requirements, including requirements that you meet with your probation officer and avoid committing further crimes. You can face penalties for technical or substantive probation violations. A technical violation occurs if you fail to follow a condition of probation. There is a substantive probation violation if you commit a new crime or legal violation. A probation violation hearing involves a lower burden of proof than a typical criminal trial, making it especially important to retain knowledgeable counsel.

Consult a Skillful Criminal Defense Attorney in the Sarasota Area

If you are investigated and charged with a crime, you may be concerned about the trajectory of your life and the impact of a conviction on your loved ones. It is important to talk to a criminal attorney who has experience in defending against the type of charge that you face. If you are charged with a crime in the Sarasota area, you should talk to Will Hanlon at Hanlon Law. Call us at 941.462.1789 or complete our online form.

At our law firm, we understand the serious implications that come with an aggravated battery charge in Sarasota, Florida. We believe that everyone is entitled to a fair trial and will provide you with the best legal representation possible. We have a team of experienced lawyers who have a deep understanding of the legal system, and we'll help you navigate the complexities of your case. Our attorneys are dedicated to helping those who have been accused of a violent crime and will work tirelessly to protect your rights. We'll help you understand your charges, advise you on your options, and create a solid defense strategy. We are committed to providing our clients with the highest quality representation and delivering the best possible outcome for their case. Contact us today for a consultation.

As an aggravated child abuse lawyer in Sarasota, Florida, I understand the severity of the charges my clients are facing. Aggravated child abuse is a serious criminal offense that can result in significant consequences, including long-term imprisonment and a terminated parental rights. I approach every case with compassion, understanding, and a deep sense of responsibility to protect the rights of my clients and the well-being of their families. Whether you or your loved one has been wrongfully accused of aggravated child abuse, or you need legal representation to defend your rights, I am here to help. With years of experience and a proven track record of success, I am committed to delivering the best possible outcome for my clients. Contact me today to discuss your case and explore your legal options.

If you have been charged with Boating Under the Influence (BUI) in Sarasota, Florida, it is important to seek the help of an experienced BUI lawyer. A BUI offense can have serious consequences, including hefty fines, jail time, and even the suspension of your boating privileges. With our proficient BUI lawyers, you can be assured of quality and experienced legal representation. We have a thorough understanding of Florida's BUI laws, and we will work tirelessly to build a strong defense strategy on your behalf. Our team understands the importance of protecting your rights and reputation, and we will fight to help minimize the potential consequences of a BUI conviction. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation to discuss your case.

At our law firm in Sarasota, Florida, we understand the serious nature of child neglect cases. Neglect is a form of child abuse that can cause lasting harm to a child's physical and emotional well-being. Our experienced child neglect lawyers are dedicated to protecting the rights of children who have been neglected or abused in any way. We strive to provide compassionate legal guidance and representation to families who are struggling with this difficult issue. We work tirelessly to hold negligent parties accountable and ensure that children receive the care and support they need to thrive. If you suspect that a child is being neglected, please contact our firm for help. We are here to stand up for the rights of vulnerable children and help families navigate the legal process with confidence and peace of mind.

At Hanlon Law, we provide student legal services in Sarasota, Florida. Our experienced lawyers are committed to providing legal assistance to the local college and university student community. Our services are designed to meet the diverse needs of students and we work tirelessly to protect our clients' rights and best interests. Whether it's a traffic violation, landlord-tenant dispute or immigration matter, we are well equipped to offer legal advice and context-specific support. We also understand the financial constraints of student life, which is why our services are offered at affordable rates. We are committed to providing high-quality, trustworthy and confidential legal services to students in Sarasota, and our goal is to help each and every student achieve their legal objectives.

If you have been charged with contributing to the delinquency of a minor in Sarasota, Florida, it's important to seek the assistance of an experienced lawyer. This charge is a serious offense that can result in significant penalties, including fines and even jail time. A skilled lawyer can help you understand the charges against you and develop a defense strategy tailored to your individual circumstances. Their expertise in Florida state law and knowledge of local court procedures can be invaluable in guiding you through the legal process and working to protect your rights. Contact a Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor lawyer in Sarasota, Florida to put their experience and resources to work for you.

At our Sarasota law firm, we understand that minors who are charged with criminal offenses face a unique set of challenges, and we stand ready to defend them. When a minor is charged with a criminal offense, there are often underlying issues such as mental health, family dynamics, and peer pressure, that need to be addressed in order to achieve the best possible outcome. Our attorneys are experienced in defending minors charged with all types of criminal offenses, from drug possession to juvenile DUI. We are dedicated to protecting the rights of minors and fighting to ensure that they are treated fairly throughout the criminal justice process. If your child has been charged with a criminal offense, contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced juvenile defense attorneys.

If you have been charged with domestic violence, it can have a significant impact on your life. It is essential to work with an experienced domestic violence charges lawyer in Sarasota, Florida, who has the knowledge, skills, and resources to vigorously defend your case. Our law firm understands the complexities and sensitivities of domestic violence cases and will provide you with personalized attention and legal representation to protect your rights. We will work tirelessly to gather evidence, build a robust defense, and negotiate on your behalf to obtain the best possible outcome. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you in your domestic violence legal case.

If you are facing charges of driving on a suspended license in Sarasota, Florida, it is important to seek the assistance of an experienced attorney as soon as possible. Driving on a suspended license can have serious consequences, including fines, jail time, and further suspension of your license. At our law firm, we understand the gravity of these charges and will fight to protect your rights and your future. Whether your license was suspended due to a prior DUI, unpaid traffic tickets, or other reasons, we have the knowledge and skills to help you navigate this legal process. Our goal is to minimize the consequences of the charges and help you get back on track. Contact us today for a consultation.

If you’ve been charged with a drug crime in Sarasota, Florida, you need an attorney who specializes in drug offenses. Drug crimes come with serious consequences, such as jail time, fines, and a criminal record that can affect your future employment and housing opportunities. A drug crime lawyer in Sarasota can evaluate the facts of your case and create a legal strategy to fight the charges against you. Whether you’ve been charged with possession, distribution, trafficking, or manufacturing of drugs, a skilled drug crime lawyer can help you navigate the legal system and minimize the damage to your life. Don’t wait to get help – contact a drug crime lawyer in Sarasota today.

As a DUI attorney in Sarasota, Florida, I understand the serious legal and personal consequences of a DUI charge. In Sarasota, drunk driving is a serious offense that can result in jail time, fines, and a criminal record. That’s why it’s important to have experienced legal representation on your side. At my law firm, I work tirelessly to defend my clients’ rights and minimize the impact of a DUI charge on their lives. I have years of experience defending clients in Sarasota and surrounding areas, and I have a deep understanding of the local legal system. If you’ve been charged with a DUI in Sarasota, don’t wait – contact me today and let me fight for your freedom and your future.

If you are facing gun charges in Sarasota, Florida, it is important to seek legal guidance from a knowledgeable and experienced gun crime lawyer. At our law firm, we understand the seriousness of these charges and the impact they can have on your life. We are dedicated to protecting the rights of our clients and advocating vigorously on their behalf. Our team of skilled attorneys has decades of experience dealing with cases involving firearm offenses and can provide you with a robust defense strategy. Don't allow the consequences of a gun crime conviction to derail your life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discuss your legal options.

At our Sarasota law firm, we specialize in representing clients who are facing allegations of public assistance fraud. We understand that this can be a highly stressful and overwhelming situation, and we are here to guide you through the process and protect your legal rights. Our team of experienced attorneys works diligently to investigate the case against you, gather evidence and build a strong defense strategy. Whether you are facing charges for Medicaid fraud, food stamp fraud or other types of public assistance fraud, we are committed to providing effective legal representation and helping you achieve the best outcome possible for fraud cases. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can assist with your case.

At our Sarasota, Florida law firm, we understand the complexities and seriousness of probation violations. Our experienced probation violation lawyers are dedicated to providing effective and aggressive representation to those facing probation violations. Whether you are accused of a technical violation, such as missing a meeting with your probation officer, or a substantive violation, such as committing a new offense, we have the expertise to defend your rights and protect your freedom. We will work tirelessly to negotiate with the prosecution and seek alternatives to incarceration wherever possible. If you or a loved one is facing a probation violation, contact our Sarasota, Florida law office today for a free consultation.

If you have been accused or charged with a sex crime in Sarasota, Florida, you need a lawyer who can protect your rights and ensure that you have a fair chance at a just outcome. As a highly experienced and compassionate sex crime lawyer, I understand the challenges you are facing and I will provide you with the resources and support you need to navigate this difficult time. I can help you develop a strong defense strategy, negotiate with prosecutors, and provide skilled representation in court. Whether you are facing charges of sexual assault, rape, child pornography, or any other sex crime, I am here to help. Contact me today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how I can stand up for you.

If you are facing a criminal charge and believe that you were acting in self-defense, Stand Your Ground Law in Florida allows you to protect yourself and justify the use of force, up to and including lethal force. At our Sarasota law firm, our experienced Stand Your Ground lawyers have the knowledge and expertise to help clients understand their rights under the state's law and develop a strong legal defense. We are committed to helping our clients protect themselves, their families, and their property, and we can help you if you are facing a criminal charge related to self-defense. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you stand your ground.

If you have been charged with a crime during a state of emergency, you need an experienced lawyer who understands the unique circumstances surrounding these charges. At our law firm in Sarasota, Florida, we specialize in defending clients who have been accused of crimes during states of emergency. Whether you were arrested during a hurricane evacuation or in the midst of a pandemic lockdown, we have the expertise and knowledge to protect your rights and fight to get your charges reduced or dropped altogether. Our attorneys are dedicated to providing personalized legal representation and will work tirelessly to get you the best possible outcome. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start building your defense.

The Criminal Process Lawyer in Sarasota, Florida specializes in providing legal representation for criminal defense cases. Our team of experienced lawyers is committed to upholding the rights of our clients and ensuring that they receive a fair trial. We understand that facing a criminal charge can be a stressful and overwhelming experience, which is why we strive to provide the highest level of personal attention and care. Our lawyers are well-versed in the criminal justice system, and will work tirelessly to build a strong defense on behalf of our clients. We have a track record of securing positive outcomes for our clients, and will use our expertise and knowledge to fight for your freedom. If you're facing criminal charges in Sarasota, Florida, turn to The Criminal Process Lawyer for trusted legal counsel and representation.

As experienced theft charges lawyers in Sarasota, Florida, we have helped countless clients facing serious theft-related charges. Our skilled legal team has a deep understanding of Florida criminal law and the local court system, allowing us to provide effective representation for clients facing any type of theft charge, from petty theft to grand larceny. We believe in a client-centered approach and will work tirelessly to protect your rights and advocate for your best interests throughout the legal process. We know how devastating a theft conviction can be for individuals and their families, which is why we are committed to making sure every client receives the best possible outcome for their case. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you.

Looking for a trusted and experienced violent crime lawyer in Sarasota, Florida? Look no further than our team of legal professionals. At our firm, we understand how overwhelming and life-altering it can be to be accused of or charged with a violent crime. That's why we are dedicated to providing our clients with top-notch legal representation and personalized support throughout the entire legal process. From assault and battery to homicide and manslaughter, our team has the experience and knowledge necessary to fight for your rights and help you navigate the criminal justice system. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you.

At our law firm in Sarasota, Florida, we specialize in defending those accused of white-collar crimes. White-collar crimes refer to non-violent offenses committed by professionals or business persons for financial gain. These crimes can include fraud, embezzlement, money laundering, and insider trading. Our experienced attorneys have a deep understanding of the complex laws and regulations involved in these cases and have a proven track record of successfully defending our clients. We understand the devastating impact that a white-collar crime conviction can have on your career, reputation, and future. That is why we work tirelessly to protect your rights and seek the best possible outcome for your case. Contact our office today for a confidential consultation with a skilled white-collar crime lawyer.