Criminal Defense Lawyer in Orlando

Name: Criminal Defense
Brand: O’Mara Law Group
Rating: 4.5 (71 reviews)

If you are facing criminal charges in Florida, your future is on the line. A conviction brings heavy penalties, including fines, jail or prison terms, and long-term consequences affecting your personal and professional life. We understand the weight of these challenges and are committed to developing a strong defense case to fight for you and your freedoms. With more than 40 years of experience, our criminal defense lawyers in Orlando are prepared to handle a variety of cases and guide our clients through the complex legal process.

Criminal Defense Overview

What Are the Benefits of Hiring O’Mara Law Group?

Criminal cases are complicated. All too often, the government is more interested in securing a conviction than uncovering the truth. You absolutely must have a criminal defense lawyer to stand up for your rights. Remember, you are innocent until proven guilty, and you deserve a lawyer who can fight back against a justice system set up against you. Hiring a legal team led by an attorney with decades of experience handling cases on both sides of the criminal justice aisle will help protect you against unfair charges and potentially life-altering consequences. When you choose O’Mara Law Group, our criminal defense lawyers will:

Be present during all questioning to protect your rights.
Fight for reasonable bail if it is set too high in your case.
Conduct an independent investigation, including into the crime alleged and evidence.
Scour discovery materials and information from our investigation to find exculpatory evidence.
Identify weaknesses in the state's case that we can use to your advantage.
Determine if your constitutional rights were violated in any way, such as through an unlawful arrest or illegal search and seizure.
Lead conversations with the police, investigators, and state attorneys and advise you on plea agreements.
Carefully question potential jurors during voir dire and try to dismiss those who seem inclined against you before hearing evidence.
File pre-trial and trial motions asking the judge to exclude evidence that is not valid, reliable, or permissible.
Investigate and thoroughly cross-examine the state's witnesses.
Argue persuasively in front of a judge and jury that you are not guilty of the charges against you.

You need an experienced criminal defense team with knowledge of the area, courts, and key players involved in your case. Our attorneys have decades of combined experience helping people like you face both state and federal charges.

What Are the Penalties for Criminal Defense in Florida?

Criminal charges in Florida carry harsh penalties, so you should ask yourself whether you can afford the consequences of a conviction. People often make the mistake of thinking they don’t need representation for misdemeanor charges. However, even misdemeanors can carry fines and potential jail time for each charge. People facing felony charges face even higher fines and longer prison sentences.

Potential fines and incarceration lengths for criminal offenses in Florida include:

Second-degree misdemeanors – $500 fine and up to 60 days imprisonment
First-degree misdemeanors – $1,000 fine and up to 1 year imprisonment
Third-degree felony – $5,000 fine and up to 5 years imprisonment
Second-degree felony – $10,000 fine and up to 15 years imprisonment
First-degree felony – $10,000 fine and up to 30 years imprisonment or life for certain crimes
Life felonies – $15,000 fine and 40 years imprisonment to life

Florida also has severe penalties for DUI offenses. A first DUI offense results in a fine of at least $500, up to $1,000, and potentially up to six months in jail. Subsequent convictions carry increasingly higher penalties, and there are enhancements based on factors such as blood alcohol content and whether a child was in the car.

three people sitting at a table looking at documents

Criminal Defense

What Are the Long-Term Consequences of Florida Criminal Convictions?

In addition to criminal penalties, people convicted of crimes in Florida potentially face numerous collateral consequences, including:

Loss of employment
Inability to hold certain work licenses or apply for certain jobs
Loss of driver's license
Loss of the right to carry a firearm
Adverse family law decisions

You have too much to lose to face criminal charges without the assistance of a battle-hardened Orlando criminal defense attorney. Partner with our skilled defense team so we can use our extensive criminal law experience to your advantage. We will fight tirelessly for your freedom and shield you against a potential lifetime of hardships related to a criminal conviction.

In the Words of Our Founder, Mark O’Mara

When people come to see me and ask about a criminal case, they want to know what's going to happen and they're afraid. They say on TV that all cases go to trial and all people get convicted and go to prison. Quite honestly, that's not true. Most cases resolve themselves without going to trial, either through plea negotiations to work something out with the prosecutor to minimize the damage, or even diversion programs where we take you out of the court system and into what's a bit like a probation sentence, and then resolve the case that way. There are many opportunities and alternatives to trying the case in front of a jury. Of course, if we have to go in front of the jury, we're very capable and willing to do so. For the most part, we can help you resolve this case, minimizing the damage to you, and at least, find out how we can get you through this process with the least amount of stress and concern.

Criminal Defense

Family & Criminal Law Testimonial

Criminal Defense Testimonial

Criminal Defense

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How Is Florida’s Criminal Justice System Different from Other States?

Compared to other states, Florida’s criminal justice system has several distinct features that can impact criminal cases, including the following:

Stand Your Ground law: Under the 2018 Florida Statutes Section 776.012, individuals are allowed to use force or deadly force to defend themselves or others if they reasonably believe they are in danger of serious bodily harm or death, with no duty to retreat. As other states require individuals to retreat if possible before using force, Florida law provides broader protection in self-defense cases.
Harsh sentencing guidelines: Florida is known for its harsh sentencing guidelines, particularly for violent crimes and drug-related offenses. The state’s mandatory minimum sentencing laws can mean lengthy prison terms for certain crimes.
Sentencing scoresheet: The Florida Criminal Punishment Code Scoring System assigns points to determine sentencing for felony offenders based on the severity of the offense, prior convictions, and other factors. It goes from level one to level 10 and applies to all felony offenses. Points do not go away. Points from a previous crime count toward the overall total at sentencing.
Speedy trial rules: Under Rule 3.191 of the Florida Rules of Criminal Procedure, the state must bring the defendant to trial within 90 days for a misdemeanor and 175 days for a felony. If the prosecution fails to meet the deadline, the defendant can file a motion to dismiss. This “speedy trial” timeline is notably shorter than in other states.
Strict DUI laws: In Florida, you do not have to blow a .08 on a breathalyzer to be convicted of DUI. The prosecution can use an elevated BAC and circumstantial evidence to make a case against you. Penalties for DUI are very strict in the state. A conviction will bring mandatory fines, license suspension, mandatory jail time, or ignition interlock installation.
Direct filing of juvenile cases: No state in the U.S. prosecutes juveniles as adults on felony charges more than Florida. The state’s direct file statute (985.557 ) allows prosecutors to charge certain juveniles as adults in criminal court. Minors accused of serious crimes may face adult charges and penalties, including lengthy prison sentences.
Death penalty: Florida is one of the few states that actively enforces the death penalty today. While it exists in other states, Florida has a higher rate of death row convictions. The law was amended in 2023 to allow juries to recommend a death sentence by a vote of at least eight to four rather than by a unanimous vote.

Types of Cases We Defend

Our firm has achieved notable victories statewide, defending clients against serious criminal charges, including prevailing in the George Zimmerman case in one of the country’s most controversial criminal trials. We offer skilled defense in a wide range of criminal matters, including the following:

Assault
Domestic Violence
Drug Crimes
Federal Crimes
Felony Crimes
Forgery
Internet Crimes
Juvenile Criminal Defense
Misdemeanors
Murder, Homicide
Probation Violations
Self Defense Cases
Sex Crimes
Weapon Offenses
White Collar Crimes
Internet Sex Crimes
2nd Amendment Cases
Child Pornography

DUI Defense in Orlando

Felony DUI
DUI Manslaughter
First Offenses
Second Offenses
Third Offenses
Fourth Offenses

Fraud Defense Attorney

Bank Fraud
Embezzlement
Healthcare Fraud
Identity Theft
Insurance Fraud
Mail Fraud
Money Laundering
Mortgage Fraud
PPP Fraud
Securities Fraud
Tax Fraud
Wire Fraud
Federal Healthcare Fraud
Federal Insurance Fraud

What Should You Do if You Are Arrested in Orlando?

Being arrested can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. Taking the right steps immediately after an arrest can protect your rights and improve your chances of a favorable outcome. The O'Mara Law Group in Orlando recommends following these steps if you are arrested:

Remain Silent: Do not answer any questions or provide statements to law enforcement without an attorney present.
Request an Attorney: Ask for a lawyer immediately and do not waive this right.
Avoid Resisting Arrest: Stay calm and comply with the officers to avoid additional charges.
Document Everything: Take note of the circumstances surrounding your arrest, including the time, location, and names of officers.
Contact a Criminal Defense Lawyer: Call the O'Mara Law Group as soon as possible to discuss your case and begin building a defense.

By taking these steps, you can protect your rights and allow your attorney to provide the best possible legal defense.

Why Trust O'Mara Law Group With Your Criminal Charges in Orlando?

Criminal charges can be complex and carry serious consequences, including fines, probation, or jail time. Navigating Florida’s criminal justice system without experienced guidance can be overwhelming and costly. The attorneys at O'Mara Law Group, specializing in criminal defense, provide strong advocacy and strategic representation to protect your rights and your future. Our award-winning criminal defense attorneys in Orlando bring decades of combined experience handling a wide range of criminal cases:

Mark O'Mara, founding partner, is one of the few attorneys in Florida board-certified in Criminal Trial Law and Marital and Family Law. He has extensive trial experience and a proven track record in defending clients against serious criminal charges.
We have been recognized as Super Lawyers and Top 100 Trial Lawyers for our client-focused approach and dedication to achieving the best possible outcomes.

Whenever possible, we explore every legal strategy to minimize penalties, protect your freedom, and safeguard your reputation. Contact O'Mara Law Group today to schedule a consultation and get the defense you need to protect your rights and your future.

Criminal Defense FAQs

What is the criminal process in Florida?

The criminal process in Florida typically includes several stages: arrest, booking, first appearance, arraignment, pretrial motions, plea negotiations, trial, and sentencing. Depending on the circumstances, some cases may be resolved through plea agreements, while others proceed to trial.

What rights do I have in a criminal charge?

If you are charged with a crime in Florida, you have several rights, including the right to remain silent, the right to legal representation, the right to a fair and speedy trial, the right to confront witnesses, and protection against self-incrimination and unlawful searches and seizures.

What is the Florida criminal court system?

The Florida criminal court system consists of county courts (for misdemeanors), circuit courts (for felonies), district courts of appeal, and the Florida Supreme Court. Felony cases are typically heard in circuit courts, while misdemeanor cases are handled in county courts.

What’s the average cost of a criminal defense attorney in Orlando?

The cost of hiring a criminal defense attorney in Orlando varies depending on the complexity of the case, the lawyer’s experience, and whether the case goes to trial.

Criminal Defense Lawyer in Orlando

Criminal Defense Overview

What Are the Benefits of Hiring O’Mara Law Group?

What Are the Penalties for Criminal Defense in Florida?

What Are the Long-Term Consequences of Florida Criminal Convictions?

In the Words of Our Founder, Mark O’Mara

Get the Legal Help Your Need Now.

How Is Florida’s Criminal Justice System Different from Other States?

Types of Cases We Defend

DUI Defense in Orlando

Fraud Defense Attorney

What Should You Do if You Are Arrested in Orlando?

Why Trust O'Mara Law Group With Your Criminal Charges in Orlando?

Criminal Defense FAQs

What is the criminal process in Florida?

What rights do I have in a criminal charge?

What is the Florida criminal court system?

What’s the average cost of a criminal defense attorney in Orlando?

Assault

Domestic Violence

Drug Crimes

Criminal Defense FAQ

Federal Crimes

Felonies

Forgery

Internet Crimes

Juvenile Defense

Misdemeanor

Murder / Homicide

Probation Violation

Restraining Order

Sealing Expungement

Self Defense

Sex Crimes

Weapon Offenses

White Collar Crimes

Internet Sex Crimes

2nd Amendment Cases

Child Pornography

What Our Clients Say

Compassionate Assistance

Exceptional Service

Support in Family Law

Expert Guidance in Family Law

Dedicated to Fighting Your Cause

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They Are Top Notch!!!!

Such a Professional and Personable Firm.

I Am Truly Proud

Way Beyond Expectations

They Were Ready to Fight the Fight

Mark Omara was GREAT

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