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Bradenton Criminal Defense Attorney

The Hanlon Law Firm
Criminal Defense Attorney in Bradenton, FL

It can be intimidating and distressing to be accused of a crime. However, a conviction is not assured. All crimes must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. If you are being investigated for a crime, it is important to secure representation by a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. At Hanlon Law, we are dedicated to defending people accused of drug crimes, sex crimes, violent crimes, domestic violence, theft crimes, white collar crimes, child abuse, and college campus crimes. The earlier that we can get started, the sooner that we can develop a strong defense strategy on a client’s behalf. We have more than two decades of experience in Florida criminal courts, obtaining numerous dismissals, acquittals, and reductions in charges.

Drug Crimes

Drug crimes are punished harshly in Florida. Controlled substances include cocaine, heroin, Fentanyl, hydrocodone, ecstasy, methamphetamine, and oxycodone, among other examples. The potential sentence for possessing any of these substances can include prison time and a fine. When the charge is drug trafficking, the judge will not have discretion over the sentence and must sentence you to the mandatory minimum for that amount of the controlled substance. This is one of the reasons why you should retain a criminal defense attorney in Bradenton who can help you aggressively fight the charge.

It is important to be aware that drug trafficking charges are not reserved for people involved in organized crime. In fact, you do not even need to deliver a drug to another person to be charged with drug trafficking. The issue is whether the amount of the controlled substance or mixture of a controlled substance and something else hits the statutory limit for the particular controlled substance. Weight limits differ among controlled substances. For example, the statutory threshold to be charged with cocaine trafficking is 28 grams or more of cocaine or a cocaine-containing mixture. If you are caught with somewhere between 28 grams and 199 grams of cocaine, you will face a mandatory minimum sentence of three years’ imprisonment and a $50,000 fine.

Sex Crimes

There is a wide range of sex crimes that may be charged in Florida, including child abuse, sexting, lewd and lascivious crimes, rape, prostitution, child pornography, and traveling to meet a minor. These types of charges can ruin a suspect’s life. In some cases, part of the sentence includes a requirement that a convicted defendant register as a sex offender or sexual predator. Among other things, when the charges involve sexual misconduct with minors, it is important to realize that ignorance or belief about a victim’s age is no defense. In Florida, the age of consent is 18. Even people who genuinely believe that the other person involved in the sexual act was not a minor and even people deceived by the minor about their age can be convicted of sex crimes involving minors, such as lewd and lascivious crimes. It is crucial to retain a Bradenton criminal defense attorney who understands how to defend against sex crime charges.

Violent Crimes

Violent crimes include rape, aggravated battery, aggravated assault, and robbery. These crimes may involve only a credible threat of violence (aggravated assault), but they can also result in great bodily harm, permanent disfigurement, or permanent disability. What must be proven depends on the particular charge. For example, if you are being charged with aggravated battery under Florida Statute section 784.045(2), the prosecutor must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you knowingly or intentionally hit someone using a deadly weapon. If the prosecutor proves this, you can face a maximum of 15 years in prison and a maximum $10,000 fine. You might assume that you could only be charged under this section if you used a firearm or knife, but in fact, you can be charged for striking someone with a deadly weapon even if what you used is a broken beer bottle, a baseball bat, or a rock.

Domestic Violence

When the police are called to a house due to domestic violence, it is probable that somebody will wind up arrested. Florida Statute section 741.28 provides that domestic battery includes actual and intentional touching, hitting, or injuring someone with whom the perpetrator has a familial or household relationship. Family and household members include spouses, ex-spouses, blood relatives, people living together as a family, and people who parent together, regardless of whether or not they are married. Domestic battery is usually a first-degree misdemeanor charge. If you are convicted, the potential sentence is a maximum of one year in jail and a maximum fine of $1,000. You may also need to complete a Batterer’s program, perform community service, and abide by a no-contact order or injunction.

Theft Crimes

Theft involves depriving somebody of their property without their consent or knowledge. Theft crimes include money laundering, dealing in stolen property, computer crimes, forgery, shoplifting, fraud, embezzlement, identity theft, stealing a car or motorcycle, robbery, burglary, and writing bad checks. Bradenton criminal defense lawyers can help you develop a defense strategy against any of these charges. In Florida, theft can be charged as petit theft or grand theft, depending on how much the property that was stolen is worth. Petit theft of the second degree is charged if the property is less than $100. First-degree petit theft can be charged if the property is worth at least $100-$300. Third-degree grand theft can be charged if the property is worth $300-$20,000. Second-degree grand theft can be charged if the property is worth $10,000-$20,000. First-degree grand theft can be charged if the property is worth more than $100,000. The potential sentence for first-degree grand theft is 30 years’ imprisonment and a $10,000 fine.

White Collar Crimes

White collar crimes do not require the use of guns or violence. Often, they are motivated by greed and occur in business, financial, or government workplaces. These crimes can include identity theft, industrial espionage, Internet crimes, stealing IP, embezzlement, forgery, bribery, or fraud. What a prosecutor must prove depends on the particular charge. Sometimes it can take years for a white collar crime to be uncovered, and in many cases, a suspect faces a potentially long prison sentence. It is important to retain an experienced criminal defense lawyer in Bradenton who has access to forensic accountants and other professionals who can help refute the charges.

Injunctions

Sometimes, a victim of domestic abuse may ask the court for an injunction. Anyone with a reasonable belief that they are in immediate danger of becoming a victim of an act of domestic violence can ask for an injunction against a person who is abusing them or about to abuse them. This is a civil process, but like a criminal charge, it may have substantial consequences for an alleged perpetrator’s life. For example, it can have a serious impact on child custody. When a judge decides that there is an immediate, present danger of domestic violence, a temporary ex parte injunction may be ordered without the judge hearing your side of what happened. However, you will be given notice of a full hearing, at which time you will have an opportunity to oppose the order. It is important to retain a criminal attorney to represent you at the full hearing.

Child Abuse

Under the Florida statutes, there are three offenses against children: child abuse, aggravated child abuse, and child neglect. Child abuse involves a threatened or willful act resulting in a sexual injury, mental harm, or physical harm causing or likely to cause physical, mental, or emotional impairment. Sometimes child abuse allegations are improperly motivated by a custody battle, a vindictive parent, or someone exaggerating reasonable discipline of a child. These charges are serious and may involve jail time and fines, as well as the loss of a family relationship. It is important to retain an experienced criminal defense lawyer in Bradenton to defend you against these charges.

College Campus Crimes

College kids often lack the good judgment that develops as a result of experience and maturity. College campus crimes can include sexual assault, rape, underage drinking and DUI, drug crimes, aggravated assault, robbery, or motor vehicle theft. Sometimes a promising student is arrested and faced with the possibility of jail time or the requirement that they register for the rest of their life as a sex offender. It is critical for people accused of college campus crimes to retain an experienced criminal defense attorney, both for any administrative proceedings that may be held on campus and for criminal charges.

Discuss Your Case With a Criminal Defense Attorney in the Bradenton Area

If you are being investigated for a crime, there may be serious potential consequences, including prison time, probation, fines, and the stigma of a criminal record that can hinder your ability to gain or keep custody of your child, get a professional license, secure housing, or obtain higher education. Representation by a skillful trial attorney matters to the outcome. Our founder, Will Hanlon, has aggressively and knowledgeably represented the accused since 1994. You can call Hanlon Law at 941.253.0254 or complete our online form.

Time is of the Essence

Hanlon Law knows that time is of the essence, we move quickly to protect your future.

Experience

With over 20 years of experience, we focus solely on Criminal Law and Injunctions.

Client Relations

“Mr. Hanlon has the confidence and experience you need when dealing with possible criminal charges.”

Client Reviews
★★★★★
As a practicing attorney, I was shocked to hear that a family member of mine was alleged to have committed a sex crime. Knowing full well the consequences this type of allegation can have on anyone and their future, I immediately reached out to William Hanlon for help. I had every confidence that Mr. Hanlon had the knowledge, expertise, and experience to handle this problem. Approximately 4 weeks from an initial conference with Mr. Hanlon, we received a call with the news that a letter of release was being issued and the case was being dropped. Now my family member can finally exhale, take a deep breath, and go on with his life. Thank you, William! Jerry
★★★★★
Was on the ball. Remembered names, events, places, situations. Never need to re explain the situation. Keeps in touch through out the entire experience and keeps you feeling safe, comforted and protected. Fights hard. Worth every single penny. Would never settle for anything less than Will. Carrie
★★★★★
I was facing a charge that if convicted would carry two years in prison minimally. Not only was he empathetic and listening to what I had to say but he arranged with the prosecutor for my charges not to be filed under terms of a pre trial investigation. Would highly recommend. Alec
★★★★★
I am very happy for what he did for me. Always there when I needed him. Explained everything well. He Fights for his clients. He got me what I needed. Hes an excellent lawyer. Mutaz
★★★★★
Mr. Hanlon did what no other lawyer could do. Not only did he turn my criminal history into a thing of the past so I could move on, he was a loyal associate. No matter how bad the situation is, he has miraculously cleared me on every charge since he became my lawyer 5 years ago. I have the best lawyer that the legal system has to offer. I have had other really good lawyers try to get my business, but I know that no one can do a better job than William Hanlon. Jesse
Child Abuse Lawyer in Bradenton, Florida

As a child abuse lawyer in Bradenton, Florida, I am dedicated to protecting the rights of children who have been mistreated, neglected, or abused. Child abuse is a devastating problem that can result in physical and emotional trauma, and I am here to provide assistance and support to those who have been affected by this issue. Whether you are a child who has experienced abuse or a concerned parent, guardian or caregiver, my team and I can help you navigate the legal system and seek justice. We specialize in cases involving physical abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, and emotional abuse, and we are committed to ensuring that every child in our community receives the care and protection they need and deserve. If you need legal representation for a child abuse case in Bradenton, we are here to help.

Student Legal Services Lawyer in Bradenton, Florida

Our team of experienced lawyers is dedicated to providing affordable, high-quality legal services to students in the area. We understand the unique challenges that students face, and we are passionate about helping them navigate the legal system and protect their rights. Whether you are dealing with landlord-tenant issues, traffic tickets, or academic misconduct allegations, we are here to help with our student legal services. Our goal is to make sure that you have access to the legal resources and representation that you need to achieve your academic and personal goals. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you.

Domestic Violence Charges Lawyer in Bradenton, Florida

If you are facing domestic violence charges in Bradenton, Florida, you need to take the situation seriously and seek professional help. Domestic violence is a serious crime and can lead to severe consequences, including jail time, hefty fines, restraining orders, and loss of custody of your children. Our experienced domestic violence charges lawyer in Bradenton, Florida, can help you understand your legal options, build a strong defense strategy, and fight for your rights. We have helped numerous clients before, and we have the knowledge and skills required to get the best possible outcome for your case. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step in protecting your future.

Driving on a Suspended License Lawyer in Bradenton, Florida

If you are facing charges for driving on a suspended license in Bradenton, Florida, you need an experienced lawyer who knows how to protect your rights and defend your case. At our law firm, we have years of experience helping clients fight these charges and achieve successful outcomes. We understand the complexities of Florida traffic laws and will work tirelessly to ensure you receive fair treatment under the law. We are committed to providing you with personalized attention and guidance every step of the way. Don't risk the consequences of a suspended license charge on your own. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can help.

Drug Crime Lawyer in Bradenton, Florida

As a drug crime lawyer in Bradenton, Florida, I understand the severe and detrimental consequences that a conviction for a drug crime can have on an individual's life. In Florida, drug crimes are aggressively prosecuted, and law enforcement officials use the full extent of the law to punish individuals found guilty of drug offenses. With extensive knowledge of the complex drug laws in Florida, I am dedicated to providing comprehensive legal representation for individuals charged with drug-related offenses. My experience and dedication to my clients have allowed me to build a reputation as a trustworthy and reliable drug crime lawyer in Bradenton. If you are facing drug crime charges, do not hesitate to contact me for a confidential and compassionate consultation.

Injunction Lawyer in Bradenton, Florida

At our Bradenton, Florida law firm, we specialize in helping clients obtain injunctive relief in a wide variety of legal matters. From restraining orders to stop domestic violence to injunctions against workplace harassment, we have extensive experience in obtaining the necessary legal protections for our clients. We understand that these types of situations can be emotionally charged and stressful, which is why we strive to provide compassionate and personalized representation throughout the legal process. Our goal is to help our clients feel safe and secure, and we are committed to doing everything in our power to achieve that outcome. If you are in need of an injunctive order, contact our Bradenton law firm today to schedule a consultation.

Pre-filing of Criminal Charges in Bradenton, Florida

We understand the importance of early intervention in criminal cases. Often, individuals are unaware they are being investigated until they are charged with a crime. This can seriously damage their reputation and ability to defend themselves in court. Our team uses our extensive experience and resources to aggressively investigate and negotiate with prosecutors before charges are filed. Our goal is to prevent charges from being filed, but if they are, we will work tirelessly to fight for our clients' rights and ensure they receive the best possible outcome. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and see how we can help protect your future.

Sex Crime Lawyer in Bradenton, Florida

If you or a loved one have been charged with a sex crime in Bradenton, Florida, you need an experienced and aggressive defense attorney on your side. Sex crimes carry some of the harshest penalties under Florida law, including lengthy prison sentences, mandatory registration as a sex offender, and a lifetime of stigma and shame. At our law firm, we believe that everyone has the right to a fair trial and a competent defense, regardless of the charges they face. Our team of skilled and compassionate sex crime lawyers has extensive experience handling all types of sex offenses, from statutory rape and sexual assault to possession of child pornography and prostitution. We understand the sensitive and highly emotional nature of these cases and will work tirelessly to protect your rights and reputation. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us fight for you.

Theft Charges Lawyer in Bradenton, Florida

If you are facing theft charges in Bradenton, Florida, it is essential to work with an experienced and skilled criminal defense lawyer who can provide you with the legal guidance and representation you need. At our law firm, we have a team of dedicated and knowledgeable lawyers who specialize in theft charges in Florida and can help you navigate the complex legal system. We understand that facing criminal charges can be a daunting and overwhelming experience, and we are here to help you every step of the way. Our lawyers have years of experience representing clients in theft cases and have a proven track record of achieving favorable outcomes. Don't wait until it's too late; contact our law firm today to schedule a consultation and start building your defense.

Violent Crime Lawyer in Bradenton, Florida

At our criminal defense law firm, we understand the severity of being charged with a violent crime in Bradenton, Florida. Our team of experienced attorneys is dedicated to protecting your legal rights and fighting for your freedom. Whether you have been charged with assault, battery, domestic violence, or any other violent crime, we have the knowledge and expertise to build a strong defense on your behalf. We will work tirelessly to investigate the circumstances surrounding your case, challenge the prosecution's evidence, and negotiate with the judge and prosecutor to obtain the best possible outcome for your unique situation. Our goal is to provide you with skilled legal representation and compassionate support during this difficult time. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get started on your defense.

White Collar Crime Lawyer in Bradenton, Florida

Our team of experienced lawyers is dedicated to providing the highest quality legal representation to individuals and businesses facing white collar criminal charges. We understand that white collar crimes such as fraud, embezzlement, and identity theft can have serious consequences, including fines, imprisonment, and damage to your reputation. That’s why we are committed to working closely with our clients, providing personalized attention and expert guidance throughout the entire legal process. We have a proven track record of achieving successful outcomes for our clients and are ready to defend your rights and protect your interests. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you navigate the complex world of white collar crime defense.

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