Venice Criminal Defense Attorneys

Common Crimes We Defend Against

At Katz & Phillips, we defend clients against a wide range of criminal charges. 

Below are some common criminal cases we handle:

• DUI
• Theft
• Robbery
• Sex Crimes
• Gun Crimes
• Drug Crimes
• Violent Crimes
• Federal Crimes
• Juvenile Crimes
• Probation Violation
• White-Collar Crimes

What Is the Process for a Criminal Case After an Arrest? 

If you were arrested for a crime in Florida, you can generally expect the following:

Bail Hearing

At this stage, the judge will decide whether the defendant is eligible for bail and specify the amount and conditions required.

Arraignment Hearing

The defendant will hear the formal charges against them and enter a plea of guilty or not guilty.

Discovery

Both sides will exchange documents, witness lists, and other evidence so the defense can adequately prepare and plan a strategy. 

Pretrial Motions

The defense and prosecution may file pretrial motions to compel, suppress evidence, or dismiss the case. 

Plea Negotiations

In some cases, the defense may negotiate with the prosecution to reduce charges or penalties through a plea bargain. 

Trial

If no plea deal is accepted, the case will proceed to trial, where it will be heard before a judge (bench trial) or jury (jury trial).

Verdict

The judge or jury will review the evidence and determine whether the defendant is guilty or not guilty.

Sentencing

If a guilty verdict is imposed, the judge will determine the terms of the sentencing, such as jail time, fines, probation, and other conditions. 

Appeal

The defendant may file post-conviction motions to appeal the verdict or sentence to a higher court. 

Do the Police Need a Warrant to Search My Home or Vehicle? 

Police generally need a warrant to search your property or person. While the Fourth Amendment protects against unreasonable searches and seizures, there are certain circumstances where warrantless searches may be allowed, such as if you voluntarily consent to the search. 

Other exceptions include: 

• Probable cause. Police may conduct a warrantless search if they have probable cause to believe there is evidence of a crime or contraband. 
• Exigent circumstances. Warrantless searches are permitted in situations that may lead to loss of life or the destruction of property or evidence.
• Plain view doctrine. Law enforcement can seize evidence without a warrant if the incriminating nature of the item is immediately apparent. 
• Incident to arrest. Police can search a person and their immediate surroundings after a lawful arrest. 

In the majority of cases, you should not consent to a police search. While many people assume that declining a search will make them look guilty, you have the constitutional right to refuse consent. Exercising that right cannot be used against you in court.

How Long Does a Criminal Case Take?

The duration of criminal proceedings depends on the complexity of the case, the severity of the charges, pretrial motions, and court availability. Misdemeanor cases can take months to resolve, while felony cases can take up to a year or longer. Our firm can help you manage important deadlines, navigate the legal process efficiently, and keep you up to date on your case while defending your rights at every step. 

Will My Criminal Case Go to Trial?

It depends. While many criminal cases do not proceed to trial, a trial may be necessary if we cannot reach an agreement in your case. Our attorneys are highly skilled negotiators who engage in meticulous planning to prepare for any outcome, including trial representation. 

How Can a Criminal Defense Lawyer Help Me?

When your future is at stake, securing a robust defense is paramount to protecting your rights and reputation. 

Below are some invaluable ways that our experienced defense attorneys can assist with your case:

• Understanding the charges. We can help you understand the charges against you and review your legal options for moving forward. 
• Protecting your rights. Our attorneys can help you exercise your right to a fair trial and hold law enforcement accountable for any constitutional violations.
• Investigating your case. We can interview witnesses, review documents, and visit crime scenes to understand your story and present a compelling argument.
• Building a defense. Our lawyers can develop an effective and tailored defense strategy by hiring expert witnesses and gathering evidence to support your case. 
• Challenging the evidence. Our team includes former prosecutors who can uncover inconsistencies and challenge the evidence against you.
• Pursuing a fair verdict. We can negotiate a fair outcome through plea deals, appeals, or motions for dismissal if necessary.