Expert Criminal Defense Attorney in Fort Lauderdale, FL

Hiring a lawyer has to be your first priority if you’ve been charged with a crime in Fort Lauderdale, FL, or the surrounding areas. The criminal defense attorneys in Fort Lauderdale at Piotrowski Law are available to help you through this time of uncertainty and fear. Find out the criminal defense law areas the Piotrowski Law attorneys have vast experience and knowledge in and how they can apply those to help with the situation you find yourself in.

Whether you are dealing with a misdemeanor charge or a serious felony charge, our Fort Lauderdale defense attorneys will advocate for you and your rights from beginning to end. With law offices in three locations throughout South Florida, you can be assured that our team has your back. Call (954) 947-5000 to set up your free consultation with one of our experienced criminal defense attorneys in Fort Lauderdale, FL.

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

While state and federal legal systems share similarities in how cases are processed, there are subtle differences that only experienced attorneys can navigate. The venue, criminal procedures, and rules can vary between the two systems.

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.