Criminal Defense Attorneys in Melbourne, Florida
Last updated on April 14, 2025
We Protect Your Rights in Florida Criminal Cases
The criminal justice system is fueled by the state and federal governments’ nearly unlimited resources to investigate and prosecute crimes. If you do not have representation from a defense lawyer, you are risking your future. As an individual, you are no match for the teams of lawyers and investigators in the prosecution’s office.
Platt Cole Russell & Simpson PLLC provides defense representation from attorneys with more than 20 years of combined experience. As skilled negotiators and litigators, we are adept at negotiating pleas as well as taking cases to trial. Before our attorneys determine a strategy, we will investigate the case against you and discuss your options with you. When the prosecution does not have the evidence to support its case, we fight hard for the reduction or dismissal of the charges.
Types of Criminal Offenses Our Defense Attorneys Handle
Our defense lawyers handle an array of Florida criminal cases, helping ensure you receive dedicated legal support. Examples include:
- DUI: Charges can introduce fines, license suspension and jail time, with harsher penalties for repeat offenses or high blood alcohol concentration. Defense strategies include challenging traffic stops or BAC test accuracy.
- Drug Crimes: We handle possession, trafficking, intent to distribute and other charges, which can lead to penalties like steep fines and incarceration. Common defenses include lack of intent or improper search and seizure.
- Assault and Violent Offenses: Assault, battery or domestic violence convictions carry penalties like prison, fines and long-term repercussions. Potential defenses include arguing self-defense or lack of intent.
- Theft & Shoplifting Allegations: Our team can help you avoid significant jail or prison time by fighting against a theft conviction. Proving lack of intent and challenging the validity of evidence obtained during search and seizure are two defense options.
- Juvenile Crimes: Charges against minors (theft, vandalism, underage drinking, assault, etc.) can result in probation, fines or detention. We prioritize the rights of youths, seeking to minimize penalties and advocating for alternatives like diversion programs to prevent lasting consequences.
- Probation Violations: Without legal intervention, you face possible consequences such as harsher sentencing or revocation of probation. Our team can help you present a persuasive case against harsh punishments.
- Post-Conviction Aid: We can assist with seeking an appeal, sentence modifications and even expungements. This can help you overcome the stigma surrounding criminal convictions.
We strive to help clients avoid jail, fines and a criminal record. Whether you are an adult or juvenile, we know that even a misdemeanor conviction can seriously affect your life. We will discuss all aspects of your case with you, explaining the options so you can make an informed decision about whether to accept a plea or go to trial. You can rely on our diligence and commitment to hard work.
Negotiation and Plea Bargaining
Our firm is ready to leverage our experience to guide you through the negotiation and plea bargaining process – a complex yet critical aspect of Florida criminal law. Plea bargains are often sought as a strategic means to secure favorable outcomes, such as reduced charges, lighter sentencing or complete dismissal of charges.
The defense attorneys with Platt Cole Russell & Simpson PLLC excel in negotiating with prosecutors and have a firm grasp of the many factors that can influence plea bargaining. Examples include the severity of the charges, the strength of evidence, prior criminal history and willingness to cooperate.
By presenting compelling arguments, proposing mitigating circumstances and leveraging legal precedents, we work to achieve a favorable resolution.
Benefits of Hiring a Criminal Defense Attorney
An experienced criminal defense attorney is crucial to protecting your rights and future. Without proper representation, you risk harsh sentences, loss of civil liberties and diminished chances of acquittal.
Our attorneys can provide invaluable guidance, craft strategic defenses and guide you through Florida’s complex legal system to achieve the best possible outcome.
FAQ: Criminal Charges in Florida
When facing criminal charges in Florida, understanding your rights and legal options is essential. Below are answers to commonly asked questions:
What are the differences between a misdemeanor and a felony, and how do they impact my case?
In Florida, misdemeanors and felonies represent two distinct levels of criminal charges with significantly different consequences for your future.
Florida misdemeanors are classified as either first-degree (punishable by up to 1 year in county jail and $1,000 in fines) or second-degree (up to 60 days in jail and $500 in fines). Common Florida misdemeanors include first-offense DUI, simple battery, petit theft under $750, and possession of small amounts of marijuana in many jurisdictions. These cases typically move through Florida’s county courts and may offer pretrial diversion programs or alternative sentencing options.
Florida felonies are serious offenses categorized from third-degree (up to 5 years imprisonment) to first-degree and life felonies (up to life imprisonment or death penalty in capital cases). Examples include drug trafficking, aggravated assault, grand theft over $750, and violent crimes. Florida felony convictions result in the loss of civil rights, including voting rights (though recent reforms have created restoration pathways), firearm ownership, and can severely impact employment opportunities, professional licensing, and housing options throughout the state.
The classification dramatically affects your defense strategy in Florida courts—misdemeanor cases may focus on negotiating reduced penalties or diversion programs, while felony defense often requires more extensive investigation, expert witnesses, and preparation for potentially lengthy trials in Florida’s circuit courts. Our Florida defense team tailors our approach based on your specific charge level, prior record, and the unique circumstances surrounding your case.
How do I know if I need a criminal defense attorney, and when should I hire one?
If you’re facing criminal charges in Florida—whether it’s a misdemeanor like DUI or disorderly conduct, or a felony such as drug possession, assault, or theft—you should consult with a criminal defense attorney immediately. Even seemingly minor charges in Florida can lead to jail time, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record that affects your employment, housing, and professional licensing opportunities.
You should hire a Florida criminal defense attorney:
- As soon as you’re arrested or receive a notice to appear
- When police want to question you about a potential crime
- If you’ve been served with a search warrant • When you’re under investigation but haven’t been charged yet
- After receiving notice of probation violations
- Before accepting any plea offers from prosecutors
The earlier you involve an attorney, the better your chances of protecting your rights and securing a favorable outcome. Florida’s criminal justice system moves quickly, and critical deadlines for filing motions or preserving evidence begin immediately after charges are filed. Our experienced defense attorneys can intervene early to potentially prevent charges from being filed, negotiate with prosecutors before court appearances, and begin building your defense strategy from day one.
Don’t wait until your situation worsens—Florida law enforcement and prosecutors won’t wait to build their case against you.
What are my rights during a police stop or arrest, and how should I conduct myself?
In Florida, knowing your rights during police encounters can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Here’s what you need to know:
During a Traffic Stop:
- You must provide your license, registration, and proof of insurance when requested
- You have the right to remain silent beyond providing these documents
- You can politely decline to answer questions about where you’re going or coming from
- You may refuse consent to search your vehicle, though officers may search if they have probable cause
- Florida law requires you to exit your vehicle if ordered by an officer
During a Arrest:
- You have the right to remain silent—exercise this right by clearly stating: “I am exercising my right to remain silent”
- You have the right to an attorney—state clearly: “I want to speak with an attorney”
- In Florida, police must inform you of these Miranda rights if they intend to question you
- You have the right to refuse consent to searches of your person, home, or property (with certain exceptions)
- Florida officers must have probable cause or a warrant to make an arrest
How to Conduct Yourself:
- Stay calm and keep your hands visible
- Never physically resist, even if you believe the arrest is unlawful
- Document officer names and badge numbers mentally
- Comply with physical commands while verbally asserting your rights
- Remember that Florida is a two-party consent state for recordings, but courts have ruled public police interactions may be recorded
After any arrest in Florida, contact a criminal defense attorney immediately. Early legal representation can protect your rights, challenge improper police procedures, and begin building your defense before critical evidence disappears.
What are the possible outcomes of a criminal case, and what are the chances of winning my case?
Criminal cases can result in various outcomes, including dismissal, acquittal, plea bargain agreements or conviction. The chances of winning depend on factors such as the strength of evidence, your chosen defense strategy and procedural details.
Your chances of a favorable outcome in Florida depend on numerous factors: the evidence strength, witness credibility, your prior record, the specific jurisdiction (outcomes vary between Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach, and other Florida counties), the assigned judge and prosecutor, and critically—your defense attorney’s skill and experience with similar cases.
While no ethical attorney can guarantee specific results, our defense team conducts thorough case evaluations to identify constitutional violations, evidence weaknesses, and negotiation opportunities unique to Florida’s criminal justice system. We’ve successfully achieved dismissals and significant charge reductions for clients facing similar situations by leveraging our knowledge of Florida criminal procedures and relationships with local prosecutors.
What are the consequences of a felony conviction in Florida?
A felony conviction can lead to the most severe criminal penalties, including long-term or lifetime incarceration, hundreds of thousands in fines and a permanent criminal record. Beyond these legal ramifications, those convicted of a felony may face difficulties securing employment, obtaining housing and exercising civil rights such as voting.
Mitigating these impacts often involves seeking expungements or appealing convictions, areas where our experienced attorneys can prove invaluable.
Free Consultation · Melbourne Criminal Defense Attorneys
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