Violent Crime Attorney in Sarasota
Facing Violent Crime Charges? Benefit from an Experienced Defense Team
When you face charges for a violent crime in Sarasota, our attorneys work together to protect your rights and your future. At McIntosh Law, we bring more than 100 years of combined legal experience to each case, offering clients the insight of multiple attorneys and paralegals.
Our approach sets us apart and ensures you receive focused, individualized support. We guide you through every step and keep you informed and prepared throughout the legal process.
We understand the fear and uncertainty that come with facing accusations of violent crime. Our defense lawyers take time to get to know your background and listen to your concerns. With strong connections throughout Sarasota, our team understands the local legal landscape, court procedures, and approaches used by area prosecutors.
Your freedom cannot wait. Call (941) 299-0701 or reach out online immediately for a virtual consultation with an experienced violent crime attorney in Sarasota. We have proven success and over 100 years of combined experience.
Common Violent Crimes We Handle in Sarasota County
In Florida, violent crimes are classified into several degrees of felonies, with sentencing determined by the severity of the offense and the use of a weapon. The mandatory nature of the Florida sentencing scheme means that even a first-time conviction can trigger a prison sentence.
As a dedicated violent crime attorney in Sarasota, we routinely defend clients against the following felony charges in the 12th Judicial Circuit (Sarasota, Manatee, and DeSoto Counties):
- Aggravated Assault (§784.021): This is an assault (an intentional threat to commit violence) committed with a deadly weapon (without intent to kill) or with intent to commit any felony. This is a Third-Degree Felony and is frequently charged, often resulting from a dispute where a common object is deemed a "deadly weapon."
- Aggravated Battery (§784.045): This occurs when an offender either intentionally causes great bodily harm (such as broken bones or permanent disability) or uses a deadly weapon while committing battery. This is a Second-Degree Felony, carrying up to 15 years in prison.
- Robbery (§812.13): The taking of money or property from another person by force, violence, assault, or putting them in fear. If a firearm is carried, the charge becomes Armed Robbery, a First-Degree Felony punishable by up to life in prison.
- Manslaughter (§782.07): The unlawful killing of another person without premeditation, typically resulting from reckless or negligent behavior. Manslaughter is a Second-Degree Felony, carrying up to 15 years in prison and substantial fines.
- Murder (§782.04): The intentional and unlawful killing of another human being. Depending on the circumstances, it can be charged as First-Degree Murder (Capital Felony) punishable by life imprisonment or death, or Second-Degree Murder (First-Degree Felony) carrying up to life in prison.
The 10-20-Life Mandatory Minimum
Florida's 10-20-Life statute (§775.087) imposes mandatory minimum prison sentences when a firearm is possessed, discharged, or used during the commission of certain violent crimes. For example, possessing a firearm during a Robbery carries a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison. This enhancement makes the need for a Sarasota violent crime lawyer immediate and critical.
Skilled Defenders On Your Side Over 100 Years of Combined Experience
Here's What Sets Us Apart
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Deep Local Knowledge & Dedication
With over 25 years serving Manatee County, McIntosh Law is committed to defending our community’s rights with integrity.
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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.
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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.
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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.
The Florida Criminal Defense Process for Violent Crimes
The defense against violent crimes requires a proactive approach from the moment of arrest through pre-trial motions.
- Investigation and Evidence Review: Our firm immediately gathers crucial, perishable evidence: witness statements, surveillance video, and 911 calls. We use our over 100 years of combined experience to analyze the crime scene and medical records to support a defense narrative (e.g., Self-Defense or Lack of Intent).
- Pre-Trial Motions: This is where we file the motions to suppress evidence obtained through illegal search or seizure. Most importantly, we file the pre-trial Stand Your Ground Motion for Immunity. This hearing is the most critical event, where our firm can challenge the prosecutor's evidence and seek a complete dismissal.
- Negotiation and Trial Readiness: Leveraging our strength in motion practice and our history of proven success, we negotiate with the State Attorney's Office for a reduced charge (e.g., felony to misdemeanor) or a sentencing resolution that minimizes prison exposure. We are always prepared to take a violent crime case to a jury, meticulously arguing justification or reasonable doubt.
Why Choose Our Violent Crime Defense Lawyers in Sarasota
- Experienced team defense: We use the combined insight of seasoned legal professionals to build strategies that fit your needs.
- State & federal case experience: Our team understands both the Florida criminal justice system and federal courts.
- Accessible support: We offer flexible scheduling, virtual meetings, and in-person support in Sarasota, including nights and weekends.
- Bilingual service: Our staff supports both English and Spanish-speaking clients.
- Compassionate care: Clients describe our attorneys as supportive and available through every stage.
As violent crime defense lawyers in Sarasota, we focus on effective communication with clients and proactive action for every case. Our bilingual staff makes sure language does not prevent you from getting personal legal guidance. Sarasota’s diverse population often has specific cultural and communication needs, so we work hard to make our services welcoming to all.
Whether your case involves the Sarasota County Sheriff, city police, or federal investigators, our experience with these agencies helps us explain legal terms, discuss your concerns, and lower your stress as the case moves forward.
Connect With a Sarasota Violent Crime Defense Lawyer
If you or a loved one faces a violent crime charge, reach out to McIntosh Law for clear guidance and support. Our collaborative approach and proven legal experience give you an advantage at every stage. Contact our office before your first court date to benefit from prompt, knowledgeable legal guidance. The sooner our team begins reviewing your case, the more options we can discuss.
Located in Sarasota, we serve clients across Sarasota and Manatee counties, making it easy for you to get skilled legal support. Whether you have questions about your rights, court procedures, or the legal process, our attorneys are ready to help you move forward with trusted defense every step of the way.
Call (941) 299-0701 or complete our contact form to set up a confidential consultation. Our violent crime defense lawyers listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and help you take the next step with confidence.
What to Expect When You Work With Our Violent Crime Lawyers
Most people facing violent crime charges in Sarasota have never dealt with the criminal justice system. From the first meeting, our violent crime defense lawyers walk you through each stage, from arrest to court appearances, breaking down every step in understandable terms.
- Initial consultation: Schedule a meeting at your convenience—virtually or in person—to start reviewing your case in detail.
- Case evaluation: Attorneys and paralegals collaborate to assess your case and review potential strategies.
- Strategy development: We design defense plans with your needs and Sarasota’s legal environment in mind.
- Clear communication: Get regular case updates and direct answers to your questions for every decision point.
- Ongoing support: Our team remains available for guidance as your case moves through Florida’s court system.
Because timelines can move quickly in Sarasota, fast access to a defense lawyer is valuable. We connect you with helpful resources and can explain local procedures, including bond hearings at the Sarasota County jail or expected dates in the Twelfth Judicial Circuit.
Our team’s guidance gives you a roadmap, helping you prepare and make decisions as your violent crime case moves forward.
