Criminal Defense

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Have You Been Charged With A Crime?

Being charged with a crime is a frightening experience. Often those accused feel powerless. You may be outgunned by a system that you do not understand. On such a playing field, and with so much at stake, it’s important to have a strong advocate on your side.

Ask For An Attorney And Remain Silent

If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges, our attorneys at Tuttle Larsen, P.A., can help. The first thing you should do after an arrest is to ask for an attorney. It is vital that this is done as soon as possible. Second, do not answer any questions and if they persist, tell them the interview is over and wait until we arrive.

We have the knowledge and experience to represent your interests. We understand the process, and we can protect your rights and work to obtain the best results for your case. With your freedom at stake, we do protect your rights and investigate your charges. Call our office at 772-563-0032 right away.

An Aggressive Defense For A Variety Of Criminal Charges

We build a tough defense for you by taking the time to listen to your situation. We have substantial experience working with clients facing a wide range of charges, including:

  • DUI/DWI
  • Driving offenses
  • Assault and battery
  • Drug offenses
  • Property offenses
  • Resisting arrest
  • Probation violations
  • Juvenile offenses
  • Theft and fraud

We will explain the law to you, how it applies to your facts and inform you about the possible defenses to your charges. We provide straightforward advice and encourage you to participate meaningfully in your defense.

Charged With A DUI/DWI?

In Florida, a charge of driving under the influence carries significant negative legal consequences. It is also commonly referred to as a DWI in other states. Common penalties for a DUI conviction include jail time, fines, license suspension, ignition interlock requirements, addiction counseling and community service. When facing DUI charges, the consequences are severe. They have the potential to have lasting effects on your life and the lives of those closest to you. It’s important to consult an experienced attorney. At Tuttle Larsen, P.A., our attorneys can help protect your rights and work vigorously to minimize the future consequences of a DUI arrest.

Drug/Prescription Medication-Related DUIs

The charge of driving under the influence covers more than drinking alcohol and driving. Drivers in Florida can be charged with DUI after using a wide range of substances. These substances not only include illegal drugs, but also over-the-counter and prescription medications as well. If you have been charged with a DUI for using a medication that was prescribed for you, call us at 772-563-0032.

Are You Facing Boating Under The Influence Charges?

Operating a watercraft under the influence of an intoxicating substance is like a DUI. It can carry many of the same types of penalties associated with a DUI in a motor vehicle. These penalties include probation, imprisonment and large fines.

Several factors may increase the severity of punishment. These include the presence of minors, the level of intoxication, and a prior history of boating under the influence or driving under the influence. Any watercraft used in an instance of BUI must be impounded or immobilized for a period of time. The owner, leaser or renter of the vessel must pay all associated fees.

Bicycling Under The Influence Allegations

Floridians and visitors to our state beware! You can be charged with driving under the influence while riding a bicycle. Furthermore, you can be arrested for being intoxicated and operating any transportation device. This includes anything that moves a person from one place to another, such as scooters, skateboards, golf carts and lawn mowers.

Drivers Often Underestimate The Risk Traffic Offenses Pose

A traffic offense is a serious matter. It is never “just a traffic ticket.” Each offense erodes your ability to maintain your license and legally drive. And driving is necessary in Vero Beach and anywhere in Florida. Without a license, you would have difficulty keeping a job, going to school or even running to a store. We understand that while driving is a privilege, it is also essential. We work to help you overcome these charges and move on with your life.

Traffic offenses can include any violation that occurs while operating a vehicle on a public highway. Some of the most common traffic charges in Florida include offenses such as:

  • Driving with a suspended license
  • Driving with no valid license
  • Reckless driving
  • Leaving the scene of an accident (“hit and run”)

Each of these violations is punishable by probation, jail time and/or fines. It is important that you take every traffic offense as a serious matter and consult a lawyer as soon as possible. Ignoring these charges can eventually lead to the loss of your license and additional serious criminal charges being added to your record.

Facing An Assault Or Battery Charge?

The terms “assault” and “battery” are often used interchangeably to describe any number of violent crimes. Yet, these terms have two distinct definitions under Florida law. If you have been charged with these offenses, our attorneys will work to defend you and protect your rights.

Assault is defined as a threat to do bodily harm upon another person. It can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the nature of the threat involved. The crime of assault can be broken down into two categories: Misdemeanor assault or “simple” assault, or aggravated assault.

Battery is touching or striking another person against their will. Like assault, it can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony. Being charged with these types of violent crimes is a serious matter. In addition to the penalties, these charges, like all criminal convictions, carry a strong social stigma that can haunt your future. The penalties include jail time, probation, required counseling, fines and the payment of restitution.

Sometimes assault and battery charges are a result of a variety of situations ranging from simple horseplay to dangerous brawls. Our experienced attorneys will review your facts and explain the potential defense to these charges. We have helped hundreds of people facing assault and battery charges with positive results.

Victim-Based Enhancements

Even in the absence of serious harm, if a misdemeanor battery is committed against certain victims, the misdemeanor charge can be enhanced to a felony. These victims are as followed: a child, person over 65, law enforcement officer, firefighter, emergency medical care provider, sports official and certain government employees. If your charge is against anyone who falls under these guidelines, it may be enhanced to a felony.

Assault and battery charges are serious. A criminal conviction can damage your ability to obtain a job or even somewhere to live. Call us for help with these charges: 772-563-0032.

Bail Reductions (Bond Reductions)

Those who are arrested and taken to jail are entitled to release pending trial on “reasonable conditions.” For most, “reasonable conditions” include the posting of monetary bail. Bail is a sum of money that the court holds as a form of deposit. If the defendant fails to appear in court as directed, the judge can take the deposit, and issue a warrant for the defendant’s arrest for “failure to appear.” Small mistakes can have large repercussions for your case. Our attorneys can help prevent this from happening with our seasoned representation at every stage of your prosecution.

Theft And Fraud Charges Range In Seriousness

There is a wide range of criminal offenses that fall under theft and fraud charges. Punishable as misdemeanors to first-degree felonies, penalties can include up to 30 years in prison. Our attorneys have successfully defended individuals charged with a misdemeanor to felony crimes in Indian River and St. Lucie County, including:

  • Petit theft
  • Grand theft
  • Dealing in stolen property
  • Giving a false statement to a second-hand dealer
  • “White collar” crimes
  • Organized fraud
  • Criminal use of personal identification information
  • Fraudulent use of a credit card
  • Robbery

There is often more at stake than spending time in jail if you are convicted of theft or fraud. Criminal background checks are common. Those with theft charges on their criminal records experience long-lasting difficulties in their lives. If you have been charged with misdemeanor shoplifting, felony embezzlement, or dealing with charges for a worthless or forged check, our experienced lawyers can help. We will develop a defense that best protects your rights and interests.

Charges For Drug Offenses In Florida Can Be Confusing

Drug offenses in Florida are varied. Prosecutors use this to make charges difficult to understand and as threatening as possible. They intimidate those accused into making a plea out of fear. Regulated drugs are known as “controlled substances.” Florida’s controlled substances statute covers over 100 different chemicals. This means that while the street name of the drug or substance may not be listed, the drug is still encompassed by the statute.

Suspicion of any of the following acts with controlled substances may form the basis for an arrest and criminal prosecution:

  • Possession
  • Possession with intent to sell
  • Sale, distribution and/or delivery
  • Manufacturing or cultivation
  • Possession of paraphernalia

The penalties for drug crimes vary greatly. They can range from probation, mandatory addiction counseling, and fines, to long-term mandatory prison sentences. An adjudication of guilt for the mere possession of a controlled substance, like marijuana, results in a one-year driver’s license suspension. This may seem extreme. These extreme penalties are why it’s important you have a knowledgeable and experienced lawyer in your corner.

What Is A Property Offense?

The term “property offenses” is a broad term, encompassing a great deal of conduct. “Property offenses” describe crimes that prohibit certain actions on land, residences, business establishments or of personal belongings. Even though “property offenses” cover a wide range of actions, there are three common charges:

  • Trespass
  • Criminal mischief
  • Burglary

Many of those who are arrested for property crimes do not realize the seriousness of the charge. What may seem like a minor act can result in significant, negative legal consequences. These charges can range from vandalism to refusing to leave a piece of property after being asked, and can result in misdemeanor or felony charges.

Resisting Arrest And Obstructing Justice

In Florida, resisting arrest and obstructing justice are classified under the same criminal statutes. It is illegal to resist, obstruct or oppose any law enforcement officer who is lawfully executing a legal duty. The two most commonly charged versions of this offense are:

  • Resisting an officer without violence
  • Resisting an officer with violence

Both charges are punishable by jail time, probation and fines. Yet, for obvious reasons, resisting an officer with violence carries more significant penalties. These charges are most often seen when a person resists the actions of a police officer. However, they can be charged in other circumstances, including obstructing any state officer, a probation officer or a corrections officer.

Are You At Risk Of Violating Your Probation?

Probation is a form of punishment that may be used against those convicted of criminal offenses. Those who are sentenced to probation are allowed the opportunity to live in the community rather than in jail or prison. In exchange for that opportunity, the probationer agrees to abide by many terms and conditions. Probation terms are defined by the sentencing judge. The compliance with those terms is supervised by parole and probation officers. Call us at 772-563-0032 for the help you need with this process and to explain what you need to do to avoid a violation.

Understanding Weapon Offenses

If you are charged with a firearms violation, you could be facing steep fines, loss of possession right and jail time. Florida weapons offenses charges include:

  • Improperly displaying a firearm or weapon
  • Carrying a concealed weapon
  • Possession of an illegal firearm
  • Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon

Is Your Loved One Struggling With Juvenile Offense Charges?

Juvenile charges can be troubling. Children often fail to recognize the seriousness of their conduct. Children under 18 years of age who are alleged to have committed criminal offenses in Florida are charged and prosecuted pursuant to Chapter 985 of the Florida Statute. The types of actions that are prohibited by law are the same for both juveniles and adults. But, the procedure by which juveniles are arrested and charged with crimes is completely different than that of the adult system. Our team can help you deal with the challenges of juvenile prosecution.

Our attorneys at Tuttle Larsen, P.A., have the experience to guide you through the complex legal process and protect your constitutional rights. Criminal charges are always serious. Don’t delay, email us or call us: 772-563-0032.

Criminal Defense Attorney FAQs

When facing criminal charges, a criminal defense attorney can be your ally to help navigate the process. Defense attorneys are legal professionals who specialize in defending individuals accused of committing crimes. Learn more about common questions we receive, then contact Tuttle Larsen, P.A. for help.

1. What types of situations can a defense attorney help with?

Criminal defense attorneys are well-equipped to handle a wide range of legal situations involving criminal charges. Situations where an attorney can provide assistance are:

  • DUI/DWI Cases: If you’re charged with driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI), a defense attorney can help navigate complex DUI laws and build a strong defense strategy.
  • Drug Offenses: Whether you’re charged with possession, distribution, or manufacturing of controlled substances, a defense attorney can protect your rights and challenge the prosecution’s evidence.
  • Assault and Battery Charges: If you’re accused of assault or battery, a defense attorney will work to gather evidence and witnesses to establish self-defense or mitigate the charges.
  • White-Collar Crimes: defense attorneys can defend individuals accused of embezzlement, fraud, insider trading, and other white-collar crimes.
  • Theft and Property Crimes: Whether it’s shoplifting, burglary, or grand theft, a defense attorney can help you understand the charges and develop an appropriate defense strategy.

2. What are some common defense strategies used by defense attorneys?

Defense attorneys employ various strategies based on the unique circumstances of each case. Some of these strategies may include the following:

  • Challenging Evidence: Attorneys may challenge the admissibility of certain evidence if it was obtained illegally or in violation of the defendant’s rights.
  • Negotiating Plea Deals: In some cases, negotiating a plea deal with the prosecution may lead to reduced charges or a lighter sentence.
  • Alibi Defense: If the defendant can provide a credible alibi, it can be used to prove their innocence or create reasonable doubt.
  • Insanity Defense: In situations where the defendant’s mental state is in question, an insanity defense may be used to argue that they were not mentally capable of understanding their actions.
  • Proving Lack of Intent: For certain crimes, demonstrating that the accused lacked the intent to commit the offense can be a successful defense strategy.

3. How should I select a defense attorney for my case?

Choosing the right defense attorney is crucial to the outcome of your case. Consider the following factors when making your decision:

  • Experience: Look for an attorney with significant experience in handling cases similar to yours. A seasoned attorney will be more familiar with the intricacies of criminal law and courtroom procedures.
  • Reputation: Research the attorney’s reputation by reading online reviews, testimonials, and seeking recommendations from trusted sources.
  • Track Record: Inquire about the attorney’s success rate in handling cases similar to yours. An attorney with a strong track record indicates their ability to achieve positive outcomes.
  • Communication: Choose an attorney who communicates effectively and keeps you informed about the progress of your case.
  • Fees and Costs: Discuss the attorney’s fees and billing structure upfront to avoid any surprises later on.

4. Can a defense attorney help me if I’m innocent?

Often, people can face criminal charges even when they’re completely innocent. If you believe you are innocent or have been wrongly accused, a defense attorney will work tirelessly to prove your innocence and ensure that you receive a fair trial.

5. Should I hire a private defense attorney or use a public defender?

While public defenders provide legal representation to those who cannot afford a private attorney, they often handle heavy caseloads, leaving limited time to focus on individual cases. Hiring a private defense attorney allows you to benefit from their specialized expertise and dedicated attention to your case. While hiring a private attorney is an expense, you can benefit from more specialized legal assistance. Remember, a defense attorney’s role is to protect your rights, build a robust defense, and strive for the best possible outcome. Consulting with an experienced criminal defense attorney from our Tuttle Larsen, P.A., team.