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Your Criminal Defense Firm

First Coast Criminal Defense Is the Team You Need on Your Side

Local Defense Attorney in Jacksonville, FL

Get Skilled Defense From Highly Awarded Attorneys

If you have been arrested for or charged with a criminal offense in Florida, or if you even believe you are merely under investigation for a crime, you need a skilled criminal defense team now. At First Coast Criminal Defense, we focus our practice almost exclusively on criminal law. With extensive experience and a track record of success, our Jacksonville criminal case attorneys are well-equipped to represent you in the face of serious accusations.

Our Defense Attorneys Provide Strategic, Tailored Legal Services for the Following Criminal Matters:

Remember: if you are arrested, you are innocent unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. That being said, the deck is stacked against you. The prosecution has extensive resources at its disposal and, in many cases, will seek the maximum possible penalties afforded under state and/or federal law. The sooner you contact our firm, the sooner our attorneys can begin building a solid defense on your behalf.

Misdemeanors and Felonies in Florida

There are two main types of criminal offenses in Florida: misdemeanors and felonies. Although a felony is more serious compared to a misdemeanor, getting convicted of a misdemeanor still carries harsh criminal penalties, including jail time and fines.

Here are the two types of misdemeanors in Florida:

  • First-Degree Misdemeanor: This is the most serious type of misdemeanor offense in Florida.  The maximum penalties for a first-degree misdemeanor include up to one year in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000.
  • Second-Degree Misdemeanor: This is the least serious type of misdemeanor offense in Florida. The maximum penalties for a second-degree misdemeanor include up to 60 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $500.

On the other hand, felonies are punishable by more than one year in state prison, rather than county jail. Additionally, having a felony conviction on your criminal record can have a damaging and long-lasting impact on your personal life and professional reputation. You may also lose the right to vote or purchase a firearm.

The felony classes in Florida include:

  • Capital Felony: Capital felonies are the most severe category of offenses in Florida and involve crimes such as first-degree murder. The penalty for a capital felony is the death penalty or life imprisonment without the possibility of parole.
  • Life Felony: Certain offenses, such as sexual battery, kidnapping, or drug trafficking, can be classified as life felonies. For life felonies, the penalties can include a maximum sentence of life imprisonment without the possibility of parole or a term of years.
  • First-Degree Felony: First-degree felonies are the most serious type of felony offenses in Florida, excluding capital offenses. The maximum penalties for a first-degree felony include up to 30 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $10,000.
  • Second-Degree Felony: Second-degree felonies are more serious than third-degree felonies. The maximum penalties for a second-degree felony include up to 15 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $10,000.
  • Third-Degree Felony: This is the least serious type of felony offense in Florida. The maximum penalties for a third-degree felony include up to five years in prison and/or a fine of up to $5,000.

What Is a Defense Attorney? How Can They Help Your Case?

A criminal defense attorney is a lawyer that focuses on defending individuals and companies who have been charged with alleged criminal activity. They represent defendants in court proceedings, advocate on their behalf during plea negotiations, handle all the necessary paperwork, and work to ensure their legal rights are protected throughout the entire process. 

Criminal defense lawyers understand the complexity of criminal law and have dedicated their careers to representing those accused of a crime. With experience navigating our justice system, they know how to build a strong case for each client. An experienced attorney can help you understand your charges and potential penalties as well as develop an effective strategy for your defense. A good criminal defense lawyer will also be prepared to challenge evidence presented by the prosecution.

At its core, hiring a qualified criminal defense attorney gives you a better chance to protect your rights and freedom. Your attorney will use their knowledge of the law, experience in the courtroom, and resources available to them to present the best possible defense for you. 

No matter what type of criminal charge you are facing, it’s important that you contact an experienced criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. They can provide invaluable support and guidance as your case moves forward. Make sure that you select an attorney who is knowledgeable about your specific case and circumstances, and who will work hard to defend you inside and outside the courtroom. 


Call our local defense attorney in Jacksonville now at (904) 474-3115or contact us onlineto get started with a complimentary case evaluation. We serve clients throughout Duval, Clay, and Nassau counties.


Why Choose First Coast Criminal Defense?

If you are charged with a criminal offense in the state of Florida, you can’t afford to take chances with your future. You need a criminal defense team that has the experience, skill, and resources to effectively protect your rights and defend your future.

At First Coast Criminal Defense, our award-winning legal team offers:

  • Personalized Legal Services: No two cases are the same and, as such, every case deserves the highest level of care and attention to detail. We provide personalized legal strategies that are tailored to your unique situation and legal goals.
  • A Hands-On Approach: By limiting the number of cases we accept, we are able to provide our clients with one-on-one legal services. As a client of our firm, you will work directly with your local defense attorney and our knowledgeable staff throughout the duration of your case.
  • Unlimited Accessibility: We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to take your calls, answer your questions, and provide updates on the status of your case. When you need us, we will be there for you.
  • A Proven Track Record of Results: First Coast Criminal Defense has a long history of achieving notable, favorable results for their clients.

When you trust your case to First Coast Criminal Defense, you have an entire team of award-winning trial attorneys, expert witnesses, and investigators on your side. Whether you have been arrested for DUI, charged with domestic violence, or investigated for a federal crime, our firm is prepared to fight for you.

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Get in Touch Today

Schedule your complimentary case evaluation with an experienced and accomplished attorney.

Why Put First Coast Criminal Defense on Your Side?
  • A Boutique-Style Law Firm With an Intentionally Small Case-Load
  • Providing Clients With Exceptional Representation Paired With Personalized Attention
  • We're Available for All Your Legal Needs Day or Night, 365 Days a Year
  • Experienced Trial Attorneys Ready to Handle Any Criminal Case in State Court
"

This amazing duo helped my family more than once. My ex husband had trouble with the law and they did everything in their power to help him and have as favorable of an outcome as they possibly could.


I then found myself with yet another lose

"
Danielle

Awards & Accolades

  • Avvo Client's Choice 2022
  • Consecutively Earned Since 2021
  • Consecutively Earned Since 2021
  • Consecutively Earned Since 2017
  • Top 10 Criminal Defense Since 2018
  • Top 10 DUI Defense Since 2018
  • Lawyers of Distinction 2021
  • Consecutively Earned Since 2017
  • Best Attorneys of America Lifetime Member
  • Top 1% DUI
  • Top 1% Criminal Defense
  • Top 1% Drug Trafficking
  • Top 1% White Collar Crimes
  • America's Top 100 Criminal Defense Attorneys 2020
  • AIOLA: Elite Advocate Since 2018
  • Best of the Best: Top 10 DUI Attorney
  • Best of the Best: Top 10 Criminal Defense Attorney Since 2020
  • Best Law Firms of America 2018

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