Manatee County Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you’ve been charged with a criminal offense in Manatee County, FL, you are likely frightened and unsure of what your future holds. The good news is that an experienced Manatee County defense attorney from Erika Valcarcel, Criminal Defense Lawyer, P.A. can design a solid defense strategy that may reduce your charges or dismiss your case altogether.

Call lawyer Erika Valcarcel at (941) 363-7900 as soon as you’ve been accused.

Types of Manatee County Criminal Cases We Handle

Regardless of whether you’re facing a minor misdemeanor or a more serious offense, Valcarcel Law may be able to pursue a positive outcome for your case. Erika Valcarcel will keep you informed every step of the way and give you realistic expectations of what you can expect from the defense.

DUI Charges

A DUI conviction can lead to hefty fines and court fees, job loss, increased car insurance costs, and a driver’s license suspension. If you would like to avoid a conviction, it is in your best interest to consult a Manatee County DUI attorney from Erika Valcarcel, Criminal Defense Lawyer, P.A.. A lawyer can look for flaws in your arrest by the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, and help you fight your DUI charge.

Drug Crimes

The penalties for drug possession, drug sale, drug trafficking, or any other type of drug crime are severe, and increase when large quantities of drugs are involved. If you’ve been charged with a misdemeanor or felony drug crime that involves marijuana, heroin, cocaine, or methamphetamine, consult a Manatee County drug crimes lawyer. Erika Valcarcel, Criminal Defense Lawyer, P.A. may be able to help you avoid a jail or prison sentence, costly fines and court fees, house arrest, and probation.

Criminal Traffic Violations

Erika Valcarcel, Criminal Defense Lawyer, P.A. handles a wide variety of criminal traffic violations including reckless driving, driving without a valid license, driving under suspension, hit and run, fleeing and eluding, DUI manslaughter, and vehicular manslaughter. Since these traffic violations are far more serious than minor ones such as speeding, you should reach out to a Manatee County traffic lawyer from Erika Valcarcel, Criminal Defense Lawyer, P.A.. By doing so, you may be able to prevent life-altering penalties.

Violent Crimes

If you cause harm or threaten to harm another person, you may be charged with a violent crime. Violent crimes are among the worst crimes one can commit and therefore come with brutal penalties like a jail time, a prison sentence for life, large fines and court fees, house arrest, probation, and even the death penalty in the most serious cases. If you are facing a violent crime, it’s crucial that you contact a Manatee County violent crimes attorney for a chance at improving your situation.

Sex Crimes

In the event that your sex crime charge turns into a conviction, you can expect to register as a sex offender, lose any/all of your professional licenses, and struggle to find a job. A Manatee County sex crimes lawyer may be able to help you avoid a conviction for sexual battery, lewd acts, child pornography, prostitution, or failure to register as a sex offender. Contact Erika Valcarcel, Criminal Defense Lawyer, P.A. right away if you’ve been charged.

Firearms & Weapons Charges

Carrying a concealed weapon, discharging a firearm in public, and illegally possessing a firearm are all examples of very serious firearms and weapons charges that arise in Manatee County. If you are under investigation for a firearms or weapons charge, you should consult a Manatee County weapons lawyer from Erika Valcarcel, Criminal Defense Lawyer, P.A.. Defense strategies such as carrying a proper permit or defending your home may free you from penalties such as the loss of possess a gun, and jail or prison time.

Property Crimes

Property crimes occur when someone steals or destroys someone else’s property. If you’ve been charged with a property offense such as arson, criminal mischief, or criminal trespassing, a Manatee County property crimes attorney from Erika Valcarcel, Criminal Defense Lawyer, P.A. can assist you in reducing or avoiding the consequences of a conviction.

Underage & Student Crimes

As a parent, it is difficult to find out that your child has been charged with a crime. If your child has been arrested for a crime like underage drinking, possessing a fake ID, or disorderly conduct, a Manatee County criminal defense lawyer is an invaluable resource who may defend your child in a way that ensures their mistake doesn’t cost them their future.

Theft & Fraud

Sadly, theft and fraud crimes such as grand theft, embezzlement, credit card fraud, and robbery do exist in Manatee County. If you are coping with or being accused of a theft or fraud crime, be sure to reach out to a Manatee County theft and fraud lawyer immediately. Failing to do so can cost you a jail or prison sentence, expensive fines and fees, house arrest or probation, and a social stigma.

FAQs about Criminal Charges in Manatee County

What happens if I’m arrested in Manatee County?

If you’re arrested in Manatee County, you’ll be taken to the Manatee County Jail for booking. Shortly after, you’ll attend an arraignment where the charges against you will be read, and you can enter a plea. It’s crucial to contact a criminal defense attorney immediately to protect your rights and start building your defense.

Where will my case be handled in Manatee County?

Criminal cases in Manatee County are typically handled at the Manatee County Judicial Center in Bradenton. The location and court assignment depend on the type and severity of the charges. Your defense attorney will guide you through the process and represent you in all court proceedings.

Can I have my charges reduced or dismissed in Manatee County?

Yes, charges can sometimes be reduced or dismissed based on factors like insufficient evidence, police misconduct, or strong legal defenses. An experienced criminal defense lawyer can review your case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s arguments, and negotiate for a favorable resolution.

Am I eligible to have my record sealed or expunged in Manatee County?

You may be eligible to have your criminal record sealed or expunged if your case meets certain criteria, such as being acquitted, having charges dropped, or having a first-time offense. An attorney can help you determine eligibility and guide you through the process to minimize the impact of your criminal history.

Consult a Manatee County Criminal Defense Attorney Today

If any of these crimes have negatively impacted your life, you should consult a Manatee County criminal defense lawyer at (941) 363-7900. A complimentary consultation with Erika Valcarcel, Criminal Defense Lawyer, P.A. – a member of the Manatee Chamber of Commerce – may protect your freedom and future.