Expert Criminal Defense Attorney in Key West, FL

When you’re facing criminal charges in Key West or anywhere in Monroe County, every move matters. You need a lawyer who acts fast, knows the system, and has the track record to protect your freedom. Piotrowski Law brings award-winning criminal defense from Miami-Dade to the Florida Keys. Call (305) 204-5000 for a free consultation.

Offices in Miami • Fort Lauderdale • West Palm Beach • Key West.

About Piotrowski Law in the Florida Keys

Piotrowski Law is an award-winning criminal defense firm serving clients across Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach, and now Monroe County.
Founded by former prosecutor Chad Piotrowski, our team combines insider knowledge of how the State builds cases with relentless defense strategies that get results.

We represent clients charged with misdemeanors, felonies, and federal offenses — and we treat every case like it’s the most important one on the docket.
Our firm has been recognized as Best Law Firm by the Miami Herald and Miami New Times, and we’ve earned hundreds of verified five-star reviews from people whose lives we’ve helped rebuild.

With offices across South Florida and now Key West, we’re bringing big-county resources to small-county cases — defending locals, visitors, and anyone caught in the storm of a criminal accusation.

📞 Call (305) 204-5000 or text us via Kenect today.
Your defense starts the moment we pick up the phone.

How to Identify State vs Federal Crimes

You should know that the attorneys at Piotrowski Law can help determine whether the charges levied against you are federal or state charges. They understand the differences between federal and state laws, processes, procedures, and consequences and how they can impact the outcome of your case.

If you’re charged with a state crime, you’re most likely being accused of a crime that occurred within the boundaries of the state of Florida. Here are examples of state crimes that you might be charged with:

• Aggravated Identity Theft
• Bank Fraud
• Civil Asset Forfeiture
• Conspiracy
• Criminal Defense
• Domestic Violence
• Drug Trafficking
• DUI
• Expungement
• Felony Crimes
• Firearms Crimes
• Juvenile Crimes
• Money Laundering
• Police Brutality
• Possession of Weapons and Firearms
• PPP Loan Fraud
• Probation Violation
• Traffic Offenses

Federal crimes, on the other hand, involve offenses that cross state lines or affect national interests. Examples of federal crime charges include:

• Drive-by Shooting
• Smuggling Wildlife
• Concealing Public Assets
• Embezzling Public Assets
• Immigration Violations
• Possession of Biological Weapons
• Drug Trafficking
• Forgery
• Kidnapping
• Bank Fraud

Some crimes, such as drive-by shootings, can be prosecuted federally if they are connected to activities like drug trafficking, making them federal cases.

Legal Process Overview

Depending on what type of crime is committed, there may be subtle differences in how the cases are processed depending on if the case resides in a state or federal legal system.  Depending on the system, there may be differences in the venue, criminal procedures, and rules.

Both state and federal cases guarantee the accused the same rights under the U.S. Constitution. This means both levels must follow a process that protects those rights. The typical steps in resolving a criminal case include:

• Investigation
• Charging
• Initial Hearing / Arraignment
• Discovery
• Plea Bargaining
• Preliminary Hearing
• Pre-Trial Motions
• Trial
• Post-Trial Motions
• Sentencing
• Appeal

However, specific rules or procedures can differ. For instance, in Florida, a grand jury indictment is only required in capital cases (punishable by death), while federal cases require a grand jury indictment for felony charges unless waived by the defendant.

Client-Centered Approach

At Piotrowski Law, we understand that every client’s case has unique circumstances and should not be treated as “business as usual.” Our team recognizes the subtle distinctions of each case and tailors strategies to achieve the best possible outcome.

Why Choose Piotrowski Law

We approach every client with compassion and empathy, understanding the stress, uncertainty, and fear they may feel. When you choose a Fort Lauderdale criminal attorney from Piotrowski Law, we will vigorously protect your rights while treating you with dignity and respect, providing you with peace of mind during this difficult time.

Reach Out for a Consultation

If you’ve been charged with a crime in Fort Lauderdale, FL, or the surrounding areas, the attorneys at Piotrowski Law will expertly navigate state and federal court procedures to achieve the best outcome for your circumstances. Don’t wait to ask how the Piotrowski Law team can fight for your rights and provide solutions.
Contact us now for your free legal consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Key West

🔹 How do I find the best criminal defense lawyer in Key West?

Look for a firm with proven results in Monroe County courts and a reputation for clear communication.
Check verified Google reviews, attorney ratings, and whether the lawyer personally handles your case.
At Piotrowski Law, clients work directly with our defense team — not a call center or middleman — and can reach us 24/7.

🔹 Will I have to appear in court if I live out of town?

Not always.
If you were arrested while visiting the Florida Keys, we can often appear on your behalf for routine hearings.
Our team manages cases for clients who live out of state or across Florida, minimizing travel while protecting your rights in Key West and Marathon courts.

🔹 Can my case be dismissed?

Many can.
Our strategy starts by challenging every step of the process — from traffic stops and searches to officer body-cam footage and inconsistent reports.
Even when dismissal isn’t possible, we frequently negotiate reduced charges, withholds of adjudication, or entry into diversion programs that keep your record clean.

🔹 How long will my case take?

Typical misdemeanor cases in Monroe County resolve in 2–3 months, while felony or federal matters may take 6–12 months.
We move quickly, file motions early, and communicate constantly so clients always know what’s happening.

🔹 What’s the difference between Monroe County and Miami-Dade cases?

The Monroe County State Attorney’s Office handles a smaller caseload, meaning prosecutors pay closer attention to each file.
That can be good or bad — you need a lawyer who knows local prosecutors and judges, and how to navigate Key West’s courthouse culture.
We bring that experience directly from our South Florida base.