Fort Lauderdale Criminal Defense Attorney

Image of a man in handcuffs

Are you facing criminal charges in Fort Lauderdale or Broward County and unsure of what to do next? At Phillips | Tadros, P.A., we’re ready to assist you, look out for your rights and interests, and work to achieve the best possible result on your behalf.

Our attorneys have over 50 years of combined legal experience. We’re known for our meticulous trial preparation and dedication to our clients. We are also highly responsive, meaning you’ll never be left waiting for answers to your questions. Contact Phillips | Tadros, P.A., today for a free initial consultation.

How a Criminal Attorney in Fort Lauderdale, FL, Can Help You

An experienced Fort Lauderdale criminal lawyer from Phillips | Tadros, P.A., can make a significant difference in the outcome of your defense case. We can protect your rights and improve your chances of success by:

  • Explaining Your Rights – Your lawyer will ensure that you understand your rights throughout the legal process so you can make informed decisions every step of the way.
  • Analyzing Your Case – We will closely examine the details of your case, identifying strengths and weaknesses to build a solid and customized defense strategy.
  • Gathering Evidence – Your lawyer will collect evidence to support your defense by talking to witnesses, obtaining documents, and securing video footage if available.
  • Negotiating Plea Deals – We can negotiate aggressively with prosecutors to reduce your charges or the severity of your sentence through plea deals.
  • Representing You in Court – Your lawyer will speak for you in court, presenting your case clearly and effectively to the judge and jury.
  • Filing Motions – We will file motions to dismiss certain evidence against you if it was improperly obtained to strengthen your defense.
  • Managing Paperwork – Your lawyer will manage all the necessary paperwork for your case, fill out forms accurately, and submit them on time.
  • Preparing You for Testimony – If you need to testify, your lawyer will prepare you in advance, guiding you on how to answer questions confidently and appropriately.
  • Challenging Accusations – We will contest the prosecution’s arguments and evidence, when necessary, by pointing out inconsistencies and inaccuracies.
  • Handling Legal Procedures – Your attorney will handle all the legal procedures related to your case, meeting all relevant deadlines and complying with court requirements.
  • Protecting You Against Harsh Penalties – Your lawyer will fight to help you avoid the harshest penalties, aiming for reduced charges or alternative sentencing options.

Why You Need a Lawyer When Facing Criminal Charges in Fort Lauderdale

The stakes are high when you’re facing criminal charges in Fort Lauderdale. Without a trusted defense lawyer on your side, you could face severe consequences, including the loss of certain rights and freedoms. You are more likely to miss crucial defense opportunities and incur maximum penalties for the charges against you. The stress and uncertainty of handling your case without professional help can also weigh heavily on you and your family.

A criminal defense lawyer from Phillips | Tadros, P.A., can guide you through the criminal justice system, helping you understand your rights and the charges you face. We will develop a strong defense strategy tailored to your situation, aiming to get your charges reduced or dismissed. Your lawyer can also handle all negotiations with prosecutors, potentially reducing your sentence by securing a plea deal. Your attorney will represent you in court, speak on your behalf, and fight for a favorable outcome from day one.

Types of Criminal Cases We Handle

If you face criminal charges in Fort Lauderdale, experienced legal representation can mean the difference between a harsh sentence and a second chance. At Phillips | Tadros, P.A., we can defend your rights and pursue favorable outcomes in all types of criminal cases, including those that involve the following:

DUI/DWI

Driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) involves operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol content above the legal limit or while under the influence of drugs. Our defense lawyers can fight DUI/DWI charges by questioning sobriety test accuracy, challenging the legality of traffic stops, or arguing for reduced penalties based on mitigating circumstances.

Drug Offenses

Drug offenses include the possession, distribution, or manufacturing of illegal substances like cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamines. If you face drug charges, our defense team can challenge the legality of searches, show that the drugs belonged to someone else, or argue for rehabilitation instead of jail time.

Assault and Battery

Assault and battery charges involve accusations of causing harm or threatening harm to another person. We can defend you against assault and battery charges by arguing that you were acting in self-defense or the defense of others or by questioning the reliability of witness testimony.

Theft/Robbery

Theft involves unlawfully taking someone else’s property, while robbery involves taking property by force or the threat of force. If you have been charged with a theft crime, our team might focus on proving a lack of intent, disputing identification methods, or arguing that you took the property by mistake.

Domestic Violence

Domestic violence includes physical, emotional, or sexual abuse between family members, people in the same household, or intimate partners. If you face domestic violence charges, our attorneys might challenge the allegations as false, argue that your actions were not purposeful, or negotiate for alternative sentences like counseling.

Sex Crimes

Sex crimes involve illegal acts of a sexual nature, such as sexual assault, rape, or possession of child pornography. Defending against sex crime charges might involve questioning the accuser’s credibility, presenting evidence of consent, or proving that you were falsely identified as the perpetrator.

Juvenile Defense

Juvenile defense deals with crimes committed by those under the legal age of adulthood. Common examples of juvenile crimes include vandalism and underage drinking. In juvenile defense cases, our team can persuade judges to prioritize rehabilitation over punishment, argue to have records sealed, or work to move cases to more lenient courts.

What Steps You Should Take If You Have Been Arrested

If you have been arrested in Fort Lauderdale, taking the right steps can significantly affect the outcome of your case. Here’s what you should do:

  • Stay Calm – Panic can make the situation worse. Keep your cool and be respectful toward the officers.
  • Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent – You have Miranda rights, which allow you to refrain from saying anything that might incriminate you. Politely state that you wish to remain silent until your lawyer is present.
  • Do Not Resist Arrest – Resisting arrest can lead to additional charges. Comply with the officers, even if you did nothing wrong or believe the arrest is unjust.
  • Ask for a Lawyer – Ask to speak to a Fort Lauderdale criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. If you cannot afford one, a lawyer must be provided for you.
  • Notice and Remember Details – Pay attention to the details of your arrest and treatment, including officer names and badge numbers. These details could be important for your defense.
  • Do Not Discuss Your Case – Avoid talking about your case with anyone other than your lawyer. Conversations with cellmates or over the phone could be recorded and used against you.
  • Follow Your Lawyer’s Advice – Once you have a lawyer, listen to them and follow their advice closely. They know the best steps to take to protect your rights.

Penalties You Could Face for Criminal Convictions in Fort Lauderdale

If the court finds you guilty of the charges against you, you could face a variety of penalties. The specific consequences of a conviction depend on the nature and severity of the crime, as well as any previous criminal history you might have. Here are some possible penalties you might face:

  • Jail or prison time
  • Monetary fines
  • Probation terms
  • Community service
  • Mandatory rehabilitation programs
  • House arrest
  • Loss of professional licenses
  • Suspension of your driver’s license
  • Mandatory registration as a sex offender
  • Mandatory payment of financial restitution to victims
  • Immigration consequences (for non-citizens)
  • Enhanced penalties for repeat offenses
  • A permanent criminal record

Potential Defenses to Charges You Are Facing

Different crimes require different defense strategies, and an experienced lawyer can make a huge difference in how the court sees your side of the story. Here are some potential defenses your attorney might use to fight the charges you are facing:

  • Innocence – Your lawyer can argue that you did not commit the crime. They might use an alibi, witness testimony, or evidence to prove that you were somewhere else when the crime occurred.
  • Self-Defense – If you’re accused of a violent crime, your lawyer might claim you acted in self-defense. They would need to show that you believed you were in immediate danger and used reasonable force to protect yourself.
  • Constitutional Violations – Your lawyer could argue that the police violated your constitutional rights during the arrest or investigation, which could happen if they conducted an illegal search. Evidence obtained through illegal searches is not permissible in court.
  • Duress – Your attorney could claim that you committed the crime because someone threatened you with serious harm or death, forcing you to act against your will.
  • Lack of Evidence – Your attorney might argue that there’s not enough evidence to prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt and that the prosecution has not met its burden of proof.