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Criminal Defense Your Legal Lifeline in Stormy Seas

Sarasota Criminal Defense Firm

Serving Manatee County, Sarasota County & Lakewood Ranch, FL

Being investigated by law enforcement, arrested, or charged with a crime is a stressful and often humiliating experience. You may believe you have little chance of avoiding a conviction based on the evidence against you. However, that is never true. You are innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. You have constitutional rights, such as the right to an attorney, to remain silent, and to due process.

You must take advantage of these rights to protect yourself against unfair treatment or tactics that may be used against you. Securing proven criminal defense representation should be your first order of business in pursuing the best possible outcome.

At McIntosh Law, you can work with a team of proven professionals with over 100 years of combined experience. Our firm has been in practice since 1993 and is led by Attorney Brett McIntosh, who has earned a Distinguished rating from Martindale-Hubbell®, a leading legal directory in the nation. We work as a team, which means you can have the benefit of multiple legal minds, including that of a former prosecutor. 

Discuss your case directly with a defense lawyer at our Sarasota law firm. Contact McIntosh Law at (941) 299-0701 or online to schedule a consultation. 

A Seasoned Criminal Defense Team Trusted By Thousands

Five-Star Reviews from Clients Like You


    "Criminal Defense"

    Brett McIntosh took on my case after I fired another attorney and he was very fair and honest with me. Most lawyers I hired previous to Mr. McIntosh would promise whatever you wanted to hear in consultation then when they received the money things would change. Mr McIntosh was completely honest with me and even gave me a discount because of the 7,000 paid to the previous lawyer. When we got to court not did he only get everything he thought he could he actually did better. In a troubling time a lawyer becomes more then representation in court they become your hope your counsler and I would recommend him to anyone.

    - AVVO Reviewer - Jeremy F.
    "He'll Fight for Your Rights"
    Brett McIntosh is a straight up fight for your rights guy!!! Has your back from beginning to end. Thank you for all your help.
    - Erin K.
    "My First Choice"
    Let me first start off by saying WOW! As soon as I called his office he got right on the phone with me and asked me "what can I do to help?" I personally think that if you don't hire them, you are not keen on winning.
    - William T.
    "Superb results with Mr. McIntosh"
    Getting myself into trouble was quite embarrassing not to mention humiliating and expensive. It became a fearful, nervous, stressful time in my life, From the very minute I contacted Mr. McIntosh, I felt a sense of calmness and relief. He and his entire staff were always very patient, informative, and accommodating in every way. I grew up in Manatee County with Brett. He has always had a high moral standard. His reputation is remarkable. I'm forever grateful to Mr.McIntosh for getting me results that are more realistic and manageable.
    - AVVO Reviewer - Wanda
    "Amazing lawyer!"
    I unfortunately got myself into a second DUI situation that was possibly winnable, and Brett pushed it as far as he could take it, even informing me of how the police officer was going to testify to give me a chance to accept a plea agreement (which i did) . Let me remind you I could've taken this to court with a chance to win, but it would have been my word against the police officers, a risk i didn't want to take. With the plea agreement and in front of the Judge, Brett made me look great making great and valid points for the Judge to accept his offer over the states with certain stipulatioins, i'm not going into specifics but alot of people don't get half a good of deal on their first DUI. Brett was very thorough, he did a great job and well respected in the court room. He comes highly recommended by me, just hope I don't require his expertise again.
    - AVVO Reviewer - Lucas
    "Criminal Defense"

    Brett McIntosh took on my case after I fired another attorney and he was very fair and honest with me. Most lawyers I hired previous to Mr. McIntosh would promise whatever you wanted to hear in consultation then when they received the money things would change. Mr McIntosh was completely honest with me and even gave me a discount because of the 7,000 paid to the previous lawyer. When we got to court not did he only get everything he thought he could he actually did better. In a troubling time a lawyer becomes more then representation in court they become your hope your counsler and I would recommend him to anyone.

    - AVVO Reviewer - Jeremy F.
    "Extremely professional"
    Brett helped with a felony case of a family member. He was very communicative. His assistant kept us informed and up to date on all the proceedings. At the court you could definately see he was well respected by his colleagues. When he started on our case you could see why. I would say that you certainly can not go wrong hiring him. I can't begin to explain how much he helped us when 3 other lawyers has messed us around so badly. Truly goes above and beyond. So much kindness to those who need it
    - AVVO Reviewer
    "Trustworthy Attorney"
    Even though my case was a relatively minor civil matter Mr. McIntosh approached it with the same importance as a serious criminal matter. He is prepared to fight for his clients. His relationship with the state attorney’s office and credibility with the judges provide an excellent advantage to his clients. I would strongly recommend Mr. McIntosh and his committed staff.
    - AVVO Reviewer - Laurie

Our Criminal Defense Services in Sarasota

Our team handles both state and federal criminal matters, including the following:

  • Appeals and post-conviction review: Involves challenging a conviction or sentence after trial, typically through filing appeals to higher courts to overturn or modify the decision.
  • DUI: Driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, with legal implications including fines, license suspension, and potential jail time.
  • Felony DUI: Elevated DUI charges due to factors like repeat offenses or causing injury, leading to harsher penalties.
  • Domestic violence: Charges involving abuse or violence in domestic situations, with potential consequences including restraining orders, fines, and imprisonment.
  • Drug crimes, including drug trafficking and prescription drug charges: Offenses related to controlled substances, including possession and distribution, with penalties based on the substance and quantity.
  • Federal crimes: Offenses violating U.S. federal law are investigated by federal law enforcement agencies, such as the FBI, and prosecuted in federal courts, often resulting in severe penalties. 
  • Homicide and vehicular manslaughter: Charges involving the unlawful killing of another person, with varying degrees of severity and potential for significant penalties.
  • Juvenile crimes: Offenses committed by minors, focusing on rehabilitation over punishment, leading to consequences like probation or detention.
  • Professional licensing defense, including for the construction industry: Defending against actions that threaten professional credentials due to allegations of negligence or fraud. 
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Turn to McIntosh Law for Exceptional Criminal Defense Representation 

Criminal arrests and charges can have high stakes. Your freedom and future may be on the line; choosing the right criminal defense firm is essential. 

Our proven trial lawyers have decades of experience and can put their combined knowledge and skills to work for you. With a team approach of multiple attorneys working on every case, we bring exceptional representation to every client. 

Call (941) 299-0701 or complete our online contact form to consult a Sarasota attorney at McIntosh Law about your criminal defense case.

  • Deep Local Knowledge & Dedication

    With over 25 years serving Manatee County, McIntosh Law is committed to defending our community’s rights with integrity.

  • Powerful Team Approach

    You don’t just get a lawyer—you get an entire team collaborating for your success. Our attorneys and paralegals have over 100+ years of combined experience.

  • Strategic & Experienced Defense

    Your case deserves a personalized strategy. Every team member has over twenty years in law, ensuring a skilled, thoughtful defense tailored to your specific case.

  • Proven Success

    Trusted by thousands, we know what it takes to navigate complex criminal cases, bringing experience and results-driven focus to every stage of your defense.

Contact Us Today Struggling to Stay Afloat?

Our Team is Here to Help

Reach out today to schedule your initial consultation.

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