Miami Criminal Defense Lawyer

Trusted Advocacy in Miami-Dade County & Beyond

Since 1974, Jeffrey S. Weiner, P.A. has been a top choice for criminal defense in Miami-Dade County and throughout the nation. Our Miami criminal defense attorneys are known for their exceptional legal abilities and unwavering commitment to their clients. Whether you are facing state or federal charges, our firm is here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for your rights.

Our award-winning team has handled thousands of cases, including high-profile and complex matters. We are well-versed in all areas of criminal law, from white collar crimes and drug offenses to violent crimes and federal charges. When you choose Jeffrey S. Weiner, P.A., you can trust that you will receive the aggressive representation you need and the supportive counsel you deserve.

If you or someone you love has been arrested, contact our Miami criminal defense lawyers at (305) 985-6640 today for a confidential consultation.

Why Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney?

When you have been arrested or are under investigation for a crime, there is a lot at stake. Even seemingly minor charges can have serious consequences, including jail or prison time, heavy fines, and a permanent criminal record. With so much on the line, it is crucial that you have a skilled criminal defense lawyer in Miami on your side.

Here are the top 10 reasons why you should hire a criminal defense attorney to represent you:

• Experience: An experienced criminal defense lawyer will have a deep understanding of the law and the legal process and will be able to use that knowledge to your advantage.
• Knowledge of the Legal System: Your attorney will know how the legal system works and will be able to guide you through every stage of the process.
• Investigation: Your lawyer will be able to conduct a thorough investigation of the charges against you and the evidence that will be used against you.
• Evidence Suppression: If the evidence against you was obtained illegally, your lawyer can file a motion to suppress that evidence, which could result in your charges being reduced or dismissed.
• Case Dismissal: In some cases, your attorney may be able to get the charges against you dismissed before they are even filed.
• Plea Bargaining: If a dismissal is not possible, your lawyer can negotiate with the prosecution to secure a favorable plea deal on your behalf.
• Defense Strategies: Your attorney will be able to develop an effective defense strategy to challenge the prosecution’s case and fight for your acquittal.
• Damage Control: Your lawyer will be able to help you navigate the legal system and minimize the potential damage to your personal and professional life.
• Peace of Mind: When you have an experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side, you can have peace of mind knowing that your case is in good hands.
• Cost Savings: Although you will have to pay for legal representation, hiring a criminal defense attorney can save you money in the long run. In addition to the potential fines and fees you could face if you are convicted, a criminal record can make it difficult to find a job, secure housing, or get a loan.

What Does a Criminal Defense Attorney Do?

A criminal defense attorney is a legal professional who represents individuals who have been charged with crimes. They are responsible for protecting their clients’ rights and guiding them through the criminal justice system. Depending on the circumstances of the case, a criminal defense attorney may be involved in all stages of the process, from pre-arrest to post-conviction.

Here are some of the tasks a criminal defense attorney may perform:

• Investigate the charges against their client
• Review the evidence that will be used against their client
• Interview witnesses and gather evidence
• Develop an effective defense strategy
• File motions to suppress evidence or have the charges dismissed
• Negotiate with the prosecution to secure a favorable plea deal
• Represent their client at trial
• Help their client navigate the legal system
• Protect their client’s rights

If their client is convicted, a criminal defense attorney may also handle the appeals process and help their client seek post-conviction relief. In some cases, a criminal defense attorney may also be able to help their client get their criminal record expunged or sealed.

What to Do If You Are Arrested for a Crime

Being arrested is a scary and stressful experience. However, it is important to stay calm and remember that you have rights. What you do and say in the moments after your arrest can have a significant impact on your case, so it is crucial that you take the appropriate steps to protect yourself.

If you are arrested for a crime in Florida, here are the steps you should take:

• Remain Calm: Being arrested is a stressful experience, but it is important that you remain calm and do your best to stay in control of your emotions.
• Stay Silent: You have the right to remain silent, and you should exercise that right. Anything you say to the police can and will be used against you, so it is best to say nothing at all.
• Ask for an Attorney: You also have the right to an attorney, and you should request one as soon as possible. The police may try to convince you that you do not need a lawyer, but it is in your best interest to have legal representation throughout the process.
• Cooperate With the Police: Although you should not answer any questions, you should cooperate with the police and do as they say. Resisting arrest or being uncooperative can make the situation worse.
• Do Not Consent to a Search: The police may ask to search your person, vehicle, or home. You have the right to refuse a search, and you should exercise that right. Never give the police consent to search anything.
• Document Everything: If you can, write down everything you remember about your arrest. This could include the names of the officers involved, what they said to you, and how you were treated. These details could be important later.
• Contact a Lawyer: As soon as you are able to, contact an experienced criminal defense attorney. They will be able to guide you through the process and fight for your rights.

Understanding Your Rights: A Crucial Step in Your Defense

When facing criminal charges, understanding your rights is essential to navigating the legal system effectively. At Jeffrey S. Weiner, P.A., we believe that informed clients are empowered clients. Our Miami criminal defense attorneys will guide you through the intricacies of your rights, ensuring you know what to expect at every stage of your case.

Here are some key rights you should be aware of:

• The Right to Remain Silent: You have the right not to answer questions that may incriminate you.
• The Right to an Attorney: You have the right to legal representation at all stages of your case.
• The Right to a Fair Trial: You are entitled to a trial by jury and the presumption of innocence until proven guilty.
• The Right to Confront Witnesses: You can challenge the evidence and witnesses presented against you.
• The Right to Appeal: If convicted, you have the right to appeal the decision in a higher court.

By understanding these rights, you can make informed decisions about your defense strategy. Our team is committed to ensuring that your rights are protected throughout the legal process. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you assert your rights and build a strong defense.

How to Choose a Criminal Defense Lawyer

When you are facing criminal charges, the stakes are high. The outcome of your case can have a significant impact on your future, so it is crucial that you have the right lawyer on your side. Choosing the right criminal defense attorney can be difficult, but there are a few key factors you should consider.

Here are some tips for choosing a criminal defense lawyer:

• Do Your Research: Before you hire a lawyer, you should do your research. Look at their website, read their reviews, and find out what their past clients have to say about them. You should also check to make sure they have experience handling cases like yours.
• Ask for Recommendations: If you know someone who has been in a similar situation, you should ask them for a recommendation. Personal recommendations can be a great way to find a lawyer you can trust.
• Consider Their Experience: Criminal law is complex, and you need a lawyer who has the experience and knowledge to handle your case. You should ask how long they have been practicing criminal law and how many cases they have handled.
• Meet With Them in Person: Before you hire a lawyer, you should meet with them in person. Most criminal defense attorneys offer free consultations, so you have nothing to lose. During the consultation, you should ask them about their experience and their strategy for your case. You should also make sure you feel comfortable with them and that you trust them to handle your case.
• Ask About Their Success Rate: While no lawyer can guarantee a specific outcome, you should ask about their success rate. You want a lawyer who has a track record of success and who knows how to win cases.
• Consider Their Reputation: A lawyer’s reputation can tell you a lot about them. You want a lawyer who is well-respected in the legal community and who has a good relationship with the courts and the prosecution.
• Ask About Their Caseload: You should also ask the lawyer about their caseload. If they are juggling too many cases, they may not have the time to devote to your case.
• Ask About Their Fee Structure: Finally, you should ask about the lawyer’s fee structure. Most criminal defense attorneys charge an hourly rate or a flat fee. You should also ask about any additional costs you may be responsible for.

How Much Does a Criminal Defense Attorney Cost?

One of the first questions many people have after they have been arrested is, “How much does a criminal defense attorney cost?” The answer to that question varies depending on a number of factors, including the attorney’s experience, the complexity of the case, and the jurisdiction.

Most criminal defense attorneys charge one of three types of fee arrangements:

• Hourly Rate: Some criminal defense attorneys charge an hourly rate. The exact rate will depend on the attorney’s experience and the complexity of the case. If you choose an attorney who charges an hourly rate, you will be billed for every hour they work on your case. This can make it difficult to predict how much your case will cost.
• Flat Fee: Many criminal defense attorneys charge a flat fee for their services. This means that you will pay a set fee, regardless of how long the case takes to resolve. A flat fee can make it easier to budget for your legal expenses.
• Contingency Fee: In some cases, a criminal defense attorney may offer to work on a contingency fee basis. This means that you will not have to pay any upfront costs, and the attorney will only collect a fee if they are successful in securing a favorable outcome in your case. If the attorney is successful, they will collect a percentage of the settlement or award.

When you meet with a criminal defense attorney, you should ask about their fee structure. You should also ask about any additional costs you may be responsible for, such as court fees or expert witness fees. While the cost of hiring a criminal defense lawyer is not insignificant, it is a worthwhile investment in your future.

Defense Strategies for Criminal Charges

When you have been charged with a crime, your lawyer will develop an effective defense strategy to challenge the prosecution’s case. The specific defense strategy your lawyer will employ will depend on the circumstances of the case, including the charges against you and the evidence that will be used against you.

Here are some of the most common defense strategies for criminal charges:

• Insufficient Evidence: In order to secure a conviction, the prosecution must prove the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If the prosecution does not have enough evidence to meet this high burden of proof, your lawyer can argue that the charges should be dropped.
• Police Misconduct: The police must follow certain rules and procedures when conducting an investigation and making an arrest. If the police violated your rights at any point, your lawyer can file a motion to suppress the evidence that was obtained as a result of that violation.
• Alibi: If you have an alibi, your lawyer can use that information to prove that you could not have committed the crime in question.
• Self-Defense: If you were charged with a violent crime, your lawyer may be able to argue that you acted in self-defense. In Florida, you have the right to use force, including deadly force, to protect yourself if you reasonably believe you are in imminent danger of being killed or seriously injured.
• Mistaken Identity: In some cases, eyewitnesses may misidentify the suspect. If you were misidentified as the perpetrator, your lawyer can challenge the eyewitness testimony and present evidence to prove that you are not the person who committed the crime.
• False Accusations: Unfortunately, false accusations are not uncommon in criminal cases. If you have been falsely accused of a crime, your lawyer can investigate the allegations and work to prove that they are not true.

These are just a few examples of the defense strategies that may be used in a criminal case. The defense strategy your lawyer will employ will depend on the facts of the case and your goals.

What to Expect When Working with a Criminal Defense Lawyer

When you hire a criminal defense lawyer to represent you, you can expect to receive the highest level of legal representation. Your lawyer will be your advocate throughout the process and will fight for your rights at every turn. They will handle every aspect of your case, from the investigation to the appeals process.

Here are some of the things you can expect when you work with a criminal defense lawyer:

• Personalized Attention: You are not just a case number. Your lawyer will take the time to get to know you and to understand your goals. They will develop a strategy that is tailored to your unique needs and will keep you informed about all developments in your case.
• Thorough Investigation: Your lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation of the charges against you and the evidence that will be used against you. They will interview witnesses, gather evidence, and build a strong defense on your behalf.
• Effective Defense Strategies: Your lawyer will develop an effective defense strategy to challenge the prosecution’s case and fight for your acquittal. They will know how to poke holes in the prosecution’s arguments and how to cast doubt on their evidence.
• Negotiation Skills: If a plea deal is in your best interest, your lawyer will negotiate with the prosecution to secure the best possible outcome. They will make sure your rights are protected throughout the process and that your best interest is always the top priority.
• Courtroom Experience: If your case goes to trial, your lawyer will be there to represent you and make sure your voice is heard. They will use their extensive courtroom experience to fight for your rights and to present a strong and compelling case to the jury.
• Post-Conviction Help: If you are convicted, your lawyer will handle the appeals process and will help you seek post-conviction relief. They will do everything they can to get the charges against you reduced or dismissed.
• Supportive Counsel: Your lawyer will be there to answer any questions you may have and to provide you with the support you need. They will make sure you understand your options and what to expect throughout the process.

At Jeffrey S. Weiner, P.A., we understand that being charged with a crime is a stressful and overwhelming experience. We are here to help you navigate the legal process and to fight for your rights. When you work with our firm, you can trust that your case will be in good hands.

Why Choose Jeffrey S. Weiner, P.A. for Your Criminal Defense?

Choosing the right legal representation can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. At Jeffrey S. Weiner, P.A., we pride ourselves on providing not just legal advice, but a comprehensive support system tailored to your unique situation. Here's why our firm stands out:

• Personalized Attention: We understand that every case is different. Our team takes the time to listen to your story, understand your concerns, and develop a defense strategy that aligns with your goals.
• Proven Track Record: With over 50 years of experience, our firm has successfully defended countless clients. Our history of favorable outcomes speaks volumes about our dedication and expertise.
• Accessible Communication: We believe in keeping our clients informed every step of the way. You’ll have direct access to your attorney and regular updates on your case's progress.
• Comprehensive Legal Knowledge: Our attorneys are well-versed in various aspects of criminal law, ensuring that you receive informed advice and representation, regardless of the charges you face.
• Community Commitment: We are deeply rooted in the Miami community and understand the local legal landscape. Our commitment extends beyond the courtroom as we strive to make a positive impact in the lives of our clients and neighbors.

When facing criminal charges, don’t leave your future to chance. Choose a law firm that combines experience, dedication, and a personalized approach. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you navigate your legal challenges with confidence.