Fort Myers Criminal Defense Lawyer

Fort Myers Criminal Defense Attorney

Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor or a felony charge, receiving effective representation is important to protecting your rights and preserving your freedom. Your future could be at stake, with a conviction carrying consequences beyond legal penalties. You may find it difficult to get a job, secure a loan, or apply to school. Also, your relationships with friends, family, and the community are at risk. A Fort Myers criminal defense lawyer can help preserve your innocence.

Types of Criminal Cases Our Firm Represents

At The Kirlew Law Firm, we’ve handled over 5,000 criminal cases in Florida and at the federal level, helping our clients face a wide range of charges. Some of the types of criminal cases our firm represents include:

• Alien smuggling
• Domestic violence
• Drug possession and trafficking
• Firearm offenses
• Fraud
• Grand theft
• Human trafficking
• Homicide
• Sex crimes
• Violent crimes

What Happens After You’re Arrested?

The legal process moves quickly after you’ve been arrested, but the steps are relatively standard across the various types of crimes. Knowing what to expect can help you prepare yourself and protect your rights.

First, you’ll be booked in the local Fort Myers jail or the Lee County Jail, where you’ll likely be held until your first court appearance. Within 24 to 48 hours, you’ll be brought in front of a judge and formally read the charges. You can enter your plea here, and the judge will rule on bail.

Then, pre-trial hearings will begin. Your attorney and the prosecutor will engage in discovery, allowing you to see the case against you. At this stage, your attorney will file motions to dismiss and possibly work toward negotiating a plea deal, allowing you to receive a reduced sentence in exchange for pleading guilty to a lower crime. If necessary, the case will then proceed to trial. Note that only 2% of cases in Fort Myers proceeded to trial in 2024.

A Criminal Conviction Can Follow You for Life

Florida’s crime rates were below the national averages in 2024, with the violent crime rate of 267 per 100,000 people and a property crime rate of 1,420 per 100,000. Despite a relatively low crime rate, the state is quite harsh on criminals. If you’re convicted of a crime in Florida, you could be facing years in jail or prison, expensive fines, probation, and other penalties. But the consequences don’t end there.

A criminal record will follow you, impacting your ability to find a job, secure a loan, or even exercise some of your rights. That’s why it’s essential to work with a Fort Myers Criminal Defense Attorney to take on the prosecution and work to clear your name.

About The Kirlew Law Firm, PLLC

At The Kirlew Law Firm, we represent Floridians facing criminal, white collar, and federal charges. We work closely with clients to build effective criminal defense strategies, making sure your voice is heard and your rights are protected. We know the state’s criminal defense laws, and we use that knowledge to your advantage, whether by filing for dismissal, negotiating a plea bargain, or arguing for acquittal in front of a judge and jury.

FAQs

How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost in Florida?

How much a criminal defense lawyer costs will depend on their experience and the complexity of your case in Fort Myers, Florida. You want an experienced attorney with a track record of success in cases similar to yours, but that may also mean higher fees. What’s more, you can expect to pay a higher rate for a complicated homicide case than you would for a simpler drug offense.

What Is the Hardest Case to Win in Court?

Some of the hardest cases to be successful with in court include homicide charges, sex crimes against vulnerable victims like children, and violent crimes against vulnerable victims. Jurors often have stronger biases in these cases, meaning you’ll need a strong defense to overcome these charges. Your attorney can present evidence to introduce doubt into the prosecutor’s case, potentially leading to an acquittal. If necessary, they may pursue a plea deal.

Will My Case Have to Go to Trial?

Criminal cases don’t always go to trial. In fact, 98.6% of criminal cases were resolved before trial in 2023-2024. Dispositions prior to trial include dismissals, plea bargains, deferred prosecution agreements, and nolle prosequi.

Your attorney can file motions to dismiss on grounds of rights violations, insufficient evidence, or failure to establish a prima facie case. Alternatively, they may pursue a plea deal in exchange for a reduced sentence.

What Happens at My First Court Appearance?

At your first court appearance following an arrest on criminal charges, a few things will happen. The judge will review the arrest to make sure it was lawful. If bail hasn’t already been set, they’ll determine if you qualify for bail and set an amount or decide you can be released on your own recognizance. Finally, you’ll be informed of the charges against you and the maximum penalties you face. This usually happens within 24 hours of your arrest.

Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you’re facing criminal charges in Fort Myers, too much is at stake for you not to be proactive. Your rights, freedom, and future are all on the line. Hire a criminal defense lawyer to help you maintain your innocence. Your attorney will review the prosecution’s case and get to work strategizing ways to beat the charges. Whether through motions to dismiss, plea negotiations, or court battles, your lawyer will do whatever they can to help you succeed.

Contact The Kirlew Law Firm today to schedule a consultation. Our team can discuss your case, explain the legal process going forward, outline your legal options, and work with you to develop a plan to address the charges. We give each client the personalized attention they deserve, so you can rest assured that your voice will be heard. Our experienced legal team is ready to help you with your case.