Experienced Criminal Defense in Hoffman Legal

Why Choose Hoffman Legal Criminal Defense?

If you are charged with a criminal offense in the state of South 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 Hoffman Legal 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: Hoffman Legal Criminal Defense has a long history of achieving notable, favorable results for their clients.

When you trust your case to Hoffman Legal 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.

Misdemeanors and Felonies in South Florida

There are two main types of criminal offenses in South 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 South Florida:

• First-Degree Misdemeanor: This is the most serious type of misdemeanor offense in South 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 South 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 South Florida include:

• Capital Felony: Capital felonies are the most severe category of offenses in South 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 South 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 South 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? 

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.

what does a Criminal defense attorney do? How Can They Help Your Case?

Here are some key roles and responsibilities of a defense attorney:

• Legal Representation: A defense attorney provides legal representation to their clients who have been accused of committing a crime. They advocate for their clients' rights and interests throughout the legal process.
• Case Assessment: Defense attorneys evaluate the evidence, witness statements, and other relevant information to build a strong defense strategy. They analyze the strengths and weaknesses of the prosecution's case and advise their clients on the best course of action.
• Legal Advice: Defense attorneys provide legal advice to their clients, explaining the charges against them, the potential consequences, and the available defenses. They help their clients understand their rights and guide them through the legal proceedings.
• Investigation: Defense attorneys conduct their own investigations to gather evidence that supports their client's innocence or weakens the prosecution's case. This may involve interviewing witnesses, reviewing documents, or hiring experts.
• Negotiation and Plea Bargaining: Defense attorneys negotiate with prosecutors to reach a plea bargain that may reduce the charges or penalties. They advocate for the best possible outcome for their clients, considering factors such as evidence, mitigating circumstances, and the client's wishes.
• Courtroom Representation: Defense attorneys represent their clients during court hearings, including arraignments, bail hearings, pretrial motions, and the trial itself. They present arguments, cross-examine witnesses, and challenge the prosecution's evidence.
• Legal Strategy and Defense Presentation: Defense attorneys develop a strategic defense plan tailored to each client's unique circumstances. They present this defense in a compelling manner, using legal arguments, witness testimony, and any supporting evidence.
• Protecting Rights: Defense attorneys ensure that their clients' constitutional rights are protected throughout the legal process. They challenge any violations of due process, illegal search and seizure, or improper interrogation techniques.
• Sentencing Advocacy: If their client is convicted, defense attorneys advocate for fair and just sentencing. They present mitigating factors and argue for leniency or alternative sentencing options.
• Confidentiality and Professional Ethics: Defense attorneys maintain the confidentiality of their clients' information and adhere to professional ethical standards.

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.