Clearwater Criminal Defense Attorney

Criminal Defense Lawyer in Clearwater, FL

If you are charged with a crime, it is crucial to retain an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Some criminal convictions carry mandatory minimum sentences, which means that the judge will have no discretion over the sentence and must impose a term of imprisonment as part of the sentence. Clearwater criminal defense lawyer Will Hanlon has more than two decades of experience handling matters such as charges of drug crimes, sex crimes, violent crimes, theft crimes, white collar crimes, and more. Hanlon Law fights for the accused even before charges are filed and aims to get cases dismissed as efficiently as possible so that a client can move forward with their life.

Criminal Defense

All crimes need to be proven beyond a reasonable doubt to get a conviction. You should not assume that a conviction is assured, but also you should not sit back and wait for the prosecutor to prove their case. The earlier that we get involved, the more likely it is that we can have some influence over whether and which charges are brought. Prosecutors are not required to offer you a plea deal, and talking to the prosecutor on your own can result in incriminating yourself. It is better to retain a seasoned criminal defense attorney in the Clearwater area, whether you are facing serious felony charges or misdemeanor charges.

Drug Crimes

Florida prosecutors take drug crimes seriously, and these crimes carry harsh penalties upon a conviction. Generally, drug trafficking is the most serious type of drug crime because it carries a mandatory minimum sentence if you are caught trafficking over a certain quantity of a particular drug. The type of drug at issue can affect the potential penalties that you are facing. For example, if you are caught trafficking heroin in Florida, the potential sentence is much greater than if you are caught with a small amount of marijuana. Common defenses in drug crime cases include attacking the way in which evidence was obtained. When the drugs at issue were seized in violation of your constitutional rights, it may be possible to bring a motion to suppress the evidence of the drugs.

Sex Crimes

Sex crimes are also taken quite seriously in Florida. Sex crimes include sexual battery, child pornography, lewd and lascivious offenses, prostitution, and sexual misconduct. Lewd and lascivious offenses are crimes perpetrated against people younger than age 16, and they include four distinct crimes. Crucially, you cannot raise your ignorance of the victim's age as a defense, and your age is also not a defense, even if you were a minor yourself at the time of the crime. If you are convicted of certain sex crimes, you will need to register as a sex offender for the rest of your life. This makes it critical to retain a Clearwater criminal defense attorney who can help you try to avoid these consequences.

Violent Crimes

Violent crimes in Florida include robbery, aggravated battery, aggravated assault, rape, and murder. A conviction usually comes with serious penalties. Your sentence could include many years of imprisonment, fines, and even, in a capital case, the death penalty. What must be proven varies depending on the crime charged. Under section 784.021, for example, a prosecutor trying to secure a conviction for aggravated assault would need to show that you intentionally and illegally threatened to perpetrate violence against the victim, and, at the time of the threat, you seemed to have the ability to carry out the threat. Also, the threat must have triggered a well-founded fear that violence was going to happen, and the assault must have been perpetrated with the intent to commit a felony.

Domestic Violence

Domestic violence includes any dangerous conduct that is used to control one's partner or family member. It may include assault, battery, aggravated battery, sexual assault, sexual battery, stalking, kidnapping, or false imprisonment of a family or household member. Family and household members may be spouses, exes, relatives by blood or marriage, people living together like a family or who previously lived together in this way, and people who co-parent. Florida Statute section 741.28 prohibits domestic violence in Florida. The criminal defense lawyers can help Clearwater residents fight a felony or misdemeanor domestic violence charge.

Theft Crimes

You can be charged with theft under Florida Statute section 812.014. Theft can be charged as petit theft or grand theft, and there are different degrees of these crimes. The value of the funds or property at issue will determine the precise charges. Theft may be charged in connection with a stolen car, for example, and it may also be charged in connection with stealing a diamond necklace. To establish theft, the prosecutor must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you knowingly used, obtained, or tried to use or obtain someone else's property, while intending to temporarily or permanently prevent the victim from having or benefiting from their property or to put it to your own use.

White Collar Crimes

White collar crimes are typically nonviolent. White collar crimes may involve Ponzi schemes, racketeering, embezzlement, counterfeiting, pyramid schemes, Internet crimes, bribery, and public officers' offenses, among other examples. Generally, these crimes are perpetrated with the intent to deceive. Florida Statute § 775.0844(3) sets forth enhanced penalties for specific white collar felonies. It provides that white collar felonies are those involving the commission of fraud or deceit, a conspiracy to defraud or deceive, or a conspiracy to keep someone from property with the intent to defraud them. The Clearwater criminal defense lawyers can investigate the nuances of your case and develop a plan based on your circumstances.

DUI

You can be charged with a DUI in Florida if you are caught driving or in physical control of a vehicle when you either have a blood alcohol concentration of .08% or higher or are impaired to some degree because you drank alcohol or used drugs, or both. The former charge is a per se DUI. If you are convicted of a first DUI, you may face penalties such as incarceration, a license suspension, the impoundment of your vehicle, a requirement that you install an ignition interlock device, and a $1,000 fine. However, if you are charged with a DUI in which you caused a serious bodily injury to someone, you may face third-degree felony charges, which carry more serious penalties. If you are convicted again within the lookback period, you will face even harsher penalties.

Child Abuse

If you have been charged with child abuse, you should consult a criminal defense lawyer in Clearwater who is experienced in these cases. You can be convicted of child abuse if you perpetrate intentional acts that you could reasonably anticipate would cause mental or physical injuries, or you encourage another person to do the same. You need not be the parent of the victim to be charged with child abuse. Furthermore, you can be charged with aggravated child abuse in certain situations, such as if you committed aggravated battery on a child. Aggravated child abuse carries the possibility of a first-degree felony sentence of up to 30 years’ imprisonment and a $10,000 fine. There are certain circumstances in which it would be appropriate to defend against child abuse charges on the grounds of self-defense or defense of others.

Probation Violations

In Florida, probation is also called community supervision. It is not a right but is instead considered a grace given by the government in order to rehabilitate a person. Generally, if you are put on probation, you will need to keep in contact with a probation officer and follow detailed, specific conditions. Probation violations can be either technical or substantive. Technical violations are those in which you do not complete a probation condition, such as meeting with your probation officer. A substantive probation violation occurs if you commit a new violation of a law, such as stealing a car during the probationary period.

Consult an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney in the Clearwater Area

It can be stressful and anxiety-inducing to be charged with a crime. However, you should not assume that a conviction is assured. Instead, you should consult an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. If you are being investigated for or charged with a crime in Clearwater, you should contact Hanlon Law. Call us at 727.897.5413 or complete our online form for a consultation.

At Hanlon Law, we handle arson cases in Clearwater, Florida. Our team is dedicated to providing fire investigation services to our clients with the highest level of professionalism and accuracy. With years of experience in the field, we understand the devastation and trauma that can be caused by arson. Our goal is to help our clients determine the cause and origin of a fire, and provide them with the necessary evidence to pursue legal action if necessary. We work closely with law enforcement agencies and conduct a thorough investigation to gather information and analyze the evidence to provide a comprehensive report. Our commitment to excellence and integrity has earned us a reputation as one of the top arson experts in Clearwater, Florida. Thank you for considering our services.

As a child abuse lawyer in Clearwater, Florida, I am dedicated to protecting the rights of children who have suffered from abuse, neglect or trauma. The long-term emotional and physical effects of abuse can significantly impact a child's development and well-being. My team and I are committed to holding those responsible for these heinous acts accountable for their actions. We understand the complexities of each case and work tirelessly to ensure that each child we represent receives the care and support they need to heal. If you suspect that a child has been abused or neglected, don't hesitate to contact us. We are here to help ensure that justice is served and that children are protected from harm. If you have been wrongfully accused of child abuse, we are also here to help.

At our law firm, we understand the complex legal challenges that minors and young adults face in today’s society. We strongly believe that every individual has the right to a fair and just legal representation. Our experienced lawyers in Clearwater, Florida provide compassionate and strategic legal assistance to minors and young adults who are facing serious legal issues. We work diligently to defend the rights of our clients, whether they are facing criminal charges, custody battles, or juvenile delinquency cases. Our team has a deep understanding of the laws that protect minors and young adults, and we strive to achieve the best possible outcome for each and every client. If you or your loved one is in need of legal counsel, contact us today for a consultation.

If you are facing domestic violence charges in Clearwater, Florida, it is important to have an experienced and aggressive legal advocate on your side. Domestic violence charges can have serious repercussions, including fines, mandatory counseling, and even jail time. At our law firm, we understand the stress and anxiety that often accompany domestic violence charges and are committed to providing compassionate and effective legal representation. Our attorneys are skilled negotiators who will work tirelessly to explore all options for resolving your case and obtaining the best possible outcome. Don't wait – contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can help.

If you have been charged with disorderly conduct in Clearwater, Florida, you need an experienced disorderly conduct charges lawyer on your side. Disorderly conduct is a criminal offense that can result in fines and even jail time. Whether you were involved in a public disturbance, fighting, or using abusive language, our disorderly conduct charges lawyer will work aggressively to protect your rights and fight for your freedom. We understand the seriousness of these charges, and we are dedicated to providing aggressive legal representation for our clients. Don’t take chances when it comes to your freedom – call our office today for a free consultation.

If you have been charged with disorderly intoxication in Clearwater, Florida, you have the right to an experienced defense attorney who can protect your rights and advocate for your best possible outcome. At our law firm, we understand the seriousness of these charges, as well as the potential consequences that can come along with them. We strive to build a strong case on your behalf, gathering evidence and working tirelessly to prove your innocence or minimize your charges. With years of experience as disorderly intoxication charge lawyers in Clearwater, Florida, we have the knowledge and expertise to help you navigate the complex legal system and fight for your rights. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you defend your freedom and future.

If you're facing criminal charges, you may be eligible for diversion programs in Clearwater, Florida. At our law firm, we believe that everyone deserves a second chance. Diversion programs offer an alternative to incarceration, allowing individuals to receive treatment and counseling instead. Our team has years of experience working with clients who have participated in diversion programs, and we understand the importance of individualized care. We'll help you navigate the legal system and work with you to create a plan that meets your specific needs. Don't let a criminal charge define your future - contact us today to learn more about diversion programs in Clearwater.

Looking for a drug crime lawyer in Clearwater, Florida? Look no further than our experienced legal team. We understand the serious nature of drug-related offenses, and are committed to providing our clients with the best possible defense. We have successfully defended clients facing a wide range of drug crimes, including possession, distribution, and trafficking. Our legal team has a proven track record of obtaining favorable outcomes for our clients, and we are dedicated to doing everything in our power to protect their rights and freedoms. We pride ourselves on providing personalized attention and tailored legal solutions to each and every one of our clients. If you are in need of a skilled and effective drug crime lawyer in Clearwater, Florida, contact us today to schedule a consultation.

If you have been arrested for DUI in Clearwater, Florida, it is important to hire an experienced attorney to help protect your rights and defend your case. A DUI conviction can lead to serious consequences, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time. At our law firm, we specialize in defending clients facing drunk driving charges in Clearwater and the surrounding areas. Our team of skilled attorneys will work tirelessly to investigate your case, challenge the evidence against you, and advocate on your behalf in court. We understand how stressful and overwhelming a DUI arrest can be, and we are committed to providing you with the support and guidance you need during this difficult time. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and discuss your legal options.

At our firm in Clearwater, Florida, we specialize in helping clients who find themselves facing legal trouble in relation to escape charges. Our experienced attorneys understand the complexities of these cases and will work tirelessly to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome for your situation. We handle cases involving prison escapes, parole violations, and probation violations, among others. Whether you're facing a misdemeanor or felony charge, we will use our knowledge and expertise to create a strong defense strategy to protect your freedom and future. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you.

If you have been charged with a failure to register as a career criminal in Clearwater, Florida, you need a skilled and experienced lawyer to represent you. Failure to register as a career criminal is a serious offense that could result in significant penalties including fines and imprisonment. At our law firm, we understand the gravity of these charges, and we will work tirelessly to ensure that your rights are protected throughout the legal process. Our team has years of experience in representing clients charged with failure to register as a career criminal and will use this knowledge to provide you with the best possible defense. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you fight the charges against you.

As a fleeing and eluding lawyer in Clearwater, Florida, I understand the serious consequences that come with this type of criminal charge. Whether you are facing a misdemeanor or felony charge, the penalties can be severe and life-altering. It is important to have an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side to protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome. I have a deep understanding of the laws surrounding fleeing and eluding charges in Florida, and I will work tirelessly to defend you against these accusations. Contact me today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn about your legal options.

If you need an experienced injunctions lawyer in Clearwater, FL, look no further than our team of legal experts. We understand that situations can arise where you need to seek a restraining order or injunction against someone who is posing a threat to you or your family's safety. Our attorneys specialize in obtaining and defending injunctions for domestic violence, repeat violence, sexual violence, and stalking. We work closely with our clients to gather evidence, file the necessary paperwork, and represent you in court hearings. Our primary goal is to ensure the safety of our clients and help them regain control over their lives. Contact us today for a consultation with one of our experienced injunctions lawyers in Clearwater, FL.

If you have been charged with kidnapping, it's important to seek legal representation right away. At our Clearwater, Florida law firm, we specialize in kidnapping cases and are dedicated to fighting for our clients' rights. We understand that being charged is a traumatic and overwhelming experience, and we are committed to providing compassionate and understanding legal guidance every step of the way. Our team has a deep understanding of the legal system and a track record of success in securing positive outcomes for our clients. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you during this difficult time.

When you're involved in a car accident, it's important to understand the legal consequences of leaving the scene. If you are charged with leaving the scene of an accident in Clearwater, Florida, it's crucial to enlist the help of an experienced attorney. A conviction for this crime can have serious ramifications, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time. An attorney familiar with Clearwater's laws and legal system can help defend your rights and work to minimize the potential impact of these charges. With our team of skilled attorneys, you can trust that we will aggressively fight for your rights and work diligently to achieve the best possible outcome in your case. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a positive resolution.

A no contact order is a legally binding order that forbids a person from having any direct or indirect contact with another person. In Clearwater, Florida, such orders can be obtained through a domestic violence case or other criminal charge. At our law firm, we understand the seriousness and implications of a no contact order in Florida and the potential consequences if violated. Our experienced attorneys have represented clients in countless cases involving no contact orders and have helped them understand their legal rights and options. We work diligently to advocate for our clients and their best interests while providing a compassionate and personalized approach to their case. If you are facing a no contact order or have questions about one, contact our law firm today to schedule a consultation.

Welcome to our perjury lawyer website located in Clearwater, Florida. We understand the complexities and severity of perjury charges, and we are here to help you navigate through this difficult time. Our experienced attorneys have successfully defended clients against perjury accusations in both federal and state cases. We will work tirelessly to build a strong defense and protect your rights. Our team will analyze the evidence, interview witnesses, and consult with experts to create the best defense strategy for your case. We approach each case with relentless dedication, and we strive to provide you with the best possible outcome. Don't wait, contact our Clearwater, Florida office today for a free consultation.

As a probation violation lawyer in Clearwater, Florida, our firm is committed to protecting the rights and interests of our clients. We understand that facing a probation violation charge can be overwhelming and stressful, especially when the stakes are high. Our experienced legal team is well-versed in Florida's criminal justice system and has helped countless clients navigate the complex process of probation violation cases. We work tirelessly to build a strong defense strategy customized to our clients' unique circumstances, aiming to achieve the best possible outcome for each case. If you are facing a probation violation charge in Clearwater or anywhere in Florida, contact us to schedule a free, confidential consultation to discuss your case.

If you have been charged with reckless driving in Clearwater, Florida, it is essential to seek the help of an experienced and skilled reckless driving lawyer. Here at our firm, we understand that a reckless driving charge can have severe consequences on your license, insurance, and future employment opportunities. With our extensive knowledge of reckless driving laws in Clearwater, we can develop a strong defense strategy tailored to your unique case. From negotiating plea deals to representing you in court, our team of reputable attorneys can help you fight the charges against you and obtain the best possible outcome. Don't let a reckless driving charge ruin your life. Contact us today for a free consultation.

If you are facing criminal charges related to a sex crime, you need a skilled and experienced attorney on your side. At our law firm in Clearwater, Florida, we have successfully defended clients accused of a variety of sex crimes, including rape, sexual assault, and child pornography. Our team of legal professionals is dedicated to providing aggressive and compassionate representation to clients throughout the legal process. We understand the serious consequences and long-term impact a sex crime conviction can have on your life, and we work tirelessly to fight for your rights and protect your reputation. Contact us today for a confidential consultation and to learn more about how we can help you navigate this challenging situation.

As a Sealing and Expungements Lawyer in Clearwater, Florida, I am dedicated to helping clients with their legal needs. As an experienced lawyer, I understand the importance of having a clean record and will work tirelessly to ensure that your criminal history does not hinder your future opportunities. I offer personalized and compassionate representation to all of my clients, and I am committed to keeping you informed throughout the entire legal process. I have a deep understanding of Florida's sealing and expungement laws, and I am here to help you navigate the complex legal system. If you are looking for a skilled and experienced sealing and expungement lawyer in Clearwater, Florida, contact me today for a consultation.

At our law firm, we provide effective and reliable representation for individuals facing Stand Your Ground Law cases in Clearwater, Florida. With years of experience representing clients accused of violent crimes, we understand the laws and regulations governing Stand Your Ground defenses and have a track record of success in favorably resolving these cases for our clients. We are dedicated to protecting the rights of our clients every step of the way, from the initial investigation to the final resolution of the case, always striving to achieve the best possible outcome. If you are facing a Stand Your Ground case, contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced lawyers.

We are a trusted law firm serving the Clearwater, Florida area. We understand how stressful and overwhelming it can be to face criminal charges, and we are here to guide you through the legal process every step of the way. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys have a proven track record of success in helping our clients get the best possible outcome in their cases. Additionally, we offer personalized attention to every client and work tirelessly to protect their rights and freedom. If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges in Clearwater, Florida, contact us today for a free consultation.

If you've been accused of theft in Clearwater, Florida, it's crucial that you seek an experienced theft charges lawyer who can help you navigate the legal system and defend your rights. Whether you're facing charges for grand theft, petit theft, shoplifting, or any other type of theft crime, we have the knowledge and expertise to provide you with the aggressive representation you need. Our team has a proven track record of success in defending clients against theft charges, and we're dedicated to ensuring that you receive the best possible outcome for your case. Don't leave your future in the hands of an inexperienced or overworked public defender; contact us today to schedule a free consultation and discuss your legal options.

As a Traffic Offenses lawyer serving Clearwater, Florida, we understand the stress that comes with being charged with a traffic offense. We are dedicated to providing our clients with the legal representation they need to achieve the best possible outcome in their case. From minor traffic violations to more serious charges such as DUI, we have the experience and knowledge to defend our clients in court. We pride ourselves on being accessible and providing personalized attention to each case. If you are facing a traffic offense, do not hesitate to contact us for a free consultation. We are here to protect your rights and help you move forward with your life.

As a Violent Crime Lawyer in Clearwater, Florida, I am committed to protecting the rights of my clients who are facing serious criminal charges. My experience and knowledge of the criminal justice system allow me to provide a thorough defense to individuals charged with violent crimes, such as assault, battery, homicide, or manslaughter. I understand the severity of these charges and the potential consequences my clients face, which is why I approach each case with a strategic and diligent mindset. I work closely with my clients to understand their situation and use my expertise to provide them with the best outcome possible. Whether it's investigating the crime scene, analyzing the evidence, or negotiating with the prosecutor, I will leave no stone unturned in my pursuit of justice.

If you have been accused of committing a white-collar crime in Clearwater, it is crucial to consult with an experienced lawyer who can help you navigate the complex legal system. White collar crimes can carry severe penalties, including significant fines and long-term imprisonment, and can have serious consequences for your personal and professional life. At our law firm in Clearwater, we specialize in defending individuals charged with white collar crimes such as embezzlement, fraud, and insider trading. With our extensive knowledge and expertise in white collar criminal law, we will provide you with a strategic defense to minimize the impact of the charges against you. Don't wait - contact us today for a free consultation to protect your rights and interests.

We are the Your Civil Rights Lawyer in Clearwater, Florida, we are committed to protecting the legal rights of our clients. Our team of experienced lawyers specializes in civil rights litigation and handles cases involving discrimination, police misconduct, and other civil rights violations. We believe that all individuals have the right to be treated with dignity and respect, and we work tirelessly to ensure that our clients receive the justice they deserve. Our attorneys have a deep understanding of the complex laws surrounding civil rights, and we use this knowledge to build strong cases and fight for our clients' rights. If you believe your civil rights have been violated, contact us today to learn more about how we can help.