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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


    "Best criminal defense attorney"
    Our family found ourselves in need of a criminal defense attorney. We had not lived in Florida too long and wasn't sure where to turn. We first went to the yellow pages hiring an attorney who did not care for justice and looked for an easy way out. Seeking new counsel we had several recommendations direct us to Mr. McIntosh. Hiring Brett, co-counsel Kevin and legal secretary Sherry was the best decision we ever made. Brett was committed, knowledgeable and aggressive. Brett's credibility and reputation amongst fellow attorneys, the state attorney's and judges provide a solid foundation for Brett and his team to fight for us and allow justice to prevail. There is no other criminal defense attorney with this experience and knowledge to fight for you. I was told that Brett was the best and our family can say from first hand experience that is the case.
    - AVVO Reviewer
    "I wish there were more stars that I could give"
    I wish there were more stars that I could give.
    - Kaitlynn D-S
    "Professionalism, Confidence, and Expertise"
    I had an outstanding experience working with McIntosh Law. They consistently demonstrated professionalism, confidence, and expertise while also remaining approachable and compassionate. Their ability to communicate complex legal matters in a clear and straightforward way made the entire process much less overwhelming. I greatly appreciated their patience and willingness to address all of my concerns, as well as the genuine care they showed for my situation. Brett McIntosh is an excellent advocate, and I would highly recommend their services to anyone in need of legal representation.
    - Daisy
    "The Absolute Best"
    After being arrested for something that I was not responsible for, I sought legal assistance. I met with several attorneys before deciding Mr. McIntosh was the best candidate. The circumstances of my arrest were very stressful for me. Mr. McIntosh expressed my need to be patient to let the case work out. He was always very courteous and professional, as was his co-counsel and legal secretary. My many phone calls and emails were promptly answered. My mind was set at ease many times when I contacted Mr. McIntosh to see how things were progressing, he made the situation much less stressful. I was very comfortable in trusting and believing in Mr. McIntosh and his legal advice. As my case progressed I was offered a plea by the state that I was not comfortable accepting, as I was not guilty of the charge against me. Mr. McIntosh was very forthcoming of what the consequences could be if we went to trial and it did not go my way. He also gave me the courage to believe that the truth is what I needed to stand by. We proceeded to trial, I was very scared but trusted Mr. McIntosh that the truth would come out. The charges were dropped before trial. I do not believe another attorney would have worked as diligently as he did to show the prosecutor what the facts were or to guide me to stand up for myself as he did. He is very knowledgeable and professional. I would highly recommend him to anyone and everyone. I hope to never need the assistance of another attorney again, but in the event I did...he is the only attorney I would call.
    - AVVO Reviewer
    "Best Criminal Defense Lawyer"
    I was arrested for a DUI and POSSESSION FIREARM CONVICTED FELON. Mr. Brett was smooth and excellent from beginning to finish. He was compassionate, calming, and confident when delivering defense strategy during my initial consultation. He provided me with case updates when needed, and more importantly, a sense of reassurance throughout the entire process. And in dramatic fashion, Brett got us the best possible plea offer to avoid prison, keep me working and home with my family. I am beyond satisfied with the results; I consider his fee as a life-saving investment. The courtroom personnel treat him with a certain level of respect, and you get the sense as a client that you have hired the best possible lawyer.
    - AVVO Reviewer
    "Highly Esteemed in the Community"
    Brett was able to get my charges reduced, and our case was handled very well.  Mr. McIntosh is highly esteemed within the law community by his peers. He is a man of integrity and honesty, and his staff is excellent.
    - Laurie H.
    "Brett gave me my life back"
    Brett came highly recommended to me by several other lawyers whom I hold in high regard. Brett was more than fair in his fees and he even charged me significantly less than the price we agreed on. He leveled with me on exactly what to expect each step of the way and never gave me false hope. Brett countered negotiations with the state to make a deal but I ultimately didn't feel comfortable accepting and Brett supported my decision. He told me what to expect if we went to trial and what the repercussions could be if things didn't go my way. I was terrified but continually reassured by those I know in the business that I had the right guy in my corner. I was also nervous at the notion of testifying but Brett gave me confidence to do so. On the day of trial Brett picked up on even the subtlest of inconsistencies and mounted an excellent defense on my behalf. Even up until the end of the trial, it seemed as if the verdict could go either way, but Brett's closing statements to the jury were incredibly compelling and ultimately landed a not guilty verdict. Brett isn't only a damn good lawyer, he's a damn good man and I am forever grateful for his services
    - AVVO Reviewer - Travis
    "Best attorney ever"
    I hired Brett to help me with a DUI case, he went above and beyond at all times, he fought for me till the end I will definitely recommend Brett if you want the best outcome, I got his number from a couple friends that they used him and all had amazing outcomes on their cases, got me off a DUI down to a reckless I was also looking at some jail time he also got me off of that, me and my family are so grateful that I used him as my attorney on this difficult times, I hope we don't have to cross paths again, but if I ever need an attorney I'm his client for life, you are my hero
    - AVVO Reviewer - Javier

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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