Types of Criminal Cases & Charges We Defend in Miami, FL

Over the past two decades, we have defended a wide range of clients in both state and federal criminal charges.  We have also defended hundreds of juveniles in delinquency court. Although there are essential differences between juvenile, state, and federal criminal cases, in the end, they all share one defining characteristic: the government accusing someone of a crime.

Criminal Law Cases: What Are They?

Criminal activities constitute an act or omission (failure to act) that a city, county, state, or federal government has decided causes so much harm to the public that a person should be punished if they commit the act or fail to act. Although there are many criminal defense cases with victims, it is the State of Florida (via the State Attorney’s Office or Statewide Prosecutor) or the federal government (via the U.S. Attorney’s Office) that prosecutes and punishes offenders. This is because the government has an interest in deterring the social harm that crime causes to the public at large. On the other hand, civil wrongs cause harm to a private individual, who then files a suit in court, usually seeking financial compensation from the offender. Occasionally, there are overlaps in which both civil and criminal cases arise from the same conduct. The O.J. Simpson case is a good example.

Where Do We Defend Our Clients Against Criminal Charges?

Most of the alleged criminal activities we defend involve laws enacted by either the Florida Legislature or the U.S. Congress. Most of these state crimes are prosecuted in state courts, while violations of laws passed by Congress are prosecuted in federal court. For a detailed explanation of the differences between state and federal cases, please go to the page about federal criminal cases.

The State of Florida prosecutes most juvenile cases, including those involving children who commit acts defined as crimes when they are under 18 years of age. Although under certain circumstances, Florida law allows the State Attorney to prosecute juveniles as adults for certain crimes.

Types of Crimes We Defend

Both the State of Florida and the federal government classify offenses into three general categories: felonies, misdemeanors, and noncriminal violations. Felonies and misdemeanors are considered criminal charges, while noncriminal violations are not. Although we occasionally represent someone on a noncriminal violation when it is related to a criminal charge, we primarily limit our practice to criminal defense cases. Both Florida and the federal government further divide felonies and misdemeanors into “degrees” or “classes,” which reflect the severity of the crimes and the punishments. Generally speaking, misdemeanors are crimes punishable by sentences of a year or less, served in county jails or federal detention centers. At the same time, felonies are crimes punishable by death or by sentences of more than one year, served in either state or federal prison. Over the years, we have represented thousands of clients in all types of felony and misdemeanor cases.

Regardless of the type of case, we have substantial experience defending clients against allegations of criminal conduct. When the government is prosecuting you or a loved one, you need an experienced Miami criminal defense lawyer on your side to protect your freedom and future.

Experience Matters in Criminal Law Cases

By taking the immediate action of hiring an experienced defense lawyer, you are minimizing the chances that your criminal defense case will have lasting consequences for your career, personal life, and reputation.

CALL US NOW for a CONFIDENTIAL CONSULTATION at (305) 538-4545,  or take a moment to fill out our confidential and secure intake form.* The additional details you provide will greatly assist us in responding to your inquiry.

*Due to the large number of people who contact us requesting our assistance, it is strongly suggested that you take the time to provide us with specific details regarding your case by filling out our confidential and secure intake form. The additional details you provide will greatly assist us in responding to your inquiry in a timely and appropriate manner.

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