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Criminal Defense

Orlando Criminal Defense Lawyer Fights Aggressively for Your Rights

Get professional criminal defense help from a Florida courtroom veteran

Every moment counts when you are under suspicion of being involved in a crime. The time window becomes even more important if you are actually charged with a crime. The prosecution begins building a case against you immediately, so it is essential to consult with an experienced Florida criminal law attorney immediately upon learning that you are a suspect.

At McShane & McShane Law Firm, P.A., we understand that you have many options when making a choice among criminal lawyers in Orlando, Florida. Attorney Neal T. McShane has spent the majority of his career defending people throughout Florida against criminal charges. He is a former prosecutor, having served as Assistant State Attorney in Orlando and Assistant State Attorney (Prosecutor) for the Metropolitan Bureau of Investigation (Organized Crime Unit) in Orlando. His experience on both sides of the courtroom provides our clients with a clear advantage, because he understands how the prosecution builds its case — and how to pick their case apart — piece by piece.

What we can do for you

At certain times in your life, you may benefit from, though not necessarily need, a lawyer. However, if you’re facing any criminal charge whatsoever, make no mistake: you need a lawyer. After all, depending on the circumstances of your case, your reputation and freedom may be on the line. Our firm handles all felonies, misdemeanors and appeals in state and federal courts, including:

  • Alcohol-related cases
  • Assault and battery
  • Burglary
  • Cell phone litigation
  • Criminal fraud
  • Domestic violence
  • Driver’s license suspension
  • Drug crimes
  • Drugs and narcotics trafficking
  • DUI charges
  • DWI charges
  • Driving While License Suspended (DWLS) charges
  • Extortion
  • Felonies (all)
  • Home invasion
  • Homicide
  • Internet crimes and litigation
  • Larceny
  • Manslaughter
  • Misdemeanors (all)
  • Parole and probation violations
  • Racketeering (RICO-related crimes)
  • Reckless driving
  • Sex crimes
  • Sexting (illegal text messaging)
  • Speeding
  • Stalking
  • Theft and the dealing and trafficking of stolen property
  • Traffic violations
  • Weapons charges
  • White-collar crimes
  • Wiretaps

Misdemeanors

You may or may not know that misdemeanor crimes are lesser offenses. However, misdemeanor crimes are nonetheless serious — just not as serious as felonies. In Florida, misdemeanors are split into two categories: first degree and second degree. First-degree misdemeanors are punishable by up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. Examples of first-degree misdemeanors include battery, stalking and reckless driving. Second-degree misdemeanors, such as simple assault, disorderly conduct or petit theft, are punishable by up to 60 days in jail and $500 in fines.

Felonies

Many offenses, including sex crimeshomicide, weapons charges and white-collar crimes, are punishable as felonies. Florida has five classifications of felonies: third degree, second degree, first degree, life and capital. Certain property crimes and domestic violence offenses may be prosecuted as either misdemeanors or felonies. For example, if the victim in a domestic violence case suffers catastrophic injuries, the defendant could likely be charged with a felony, whereas, if the victim suffers no serious injury, the defendant might face a misdemeanor charge instead. The following list contains some examples of felony offenses and the penalties they carry:

  • Felony in the third degree If the police arrest you for cocaine possession, aggravated assault or a third subsequent DUI in Orlando, you may be charged with a third-degree felony and could face up to five years in prison and a fine not exceeding $5,000.
  • Felony in the second degree Individuals who are arrested for selling marijuana to minors or for manslaughter DUI could be charged with a second-degree felony and face up to 15 years in prison and a fine not exceeding $10,000.
  • Felony in the first degree — DUI manslaughter may be charged as a first-degree felony, depending on the circumstances. Felonies in the first degree are penalized by up to 30 years in prison and a fine not exceeding $10,000.
  • Life felony — For committing certain serious offenses, including possessing, selling, using or attempting to use a weapon of mass destruction and kidnapping with the intent to commit or facilitate the commission of any felony, you may face life imprisonment and a fine not exceeding $15,000.
  • Capital felony — Capital felonies include murder, capital drug trafficking and armed kidnapping, and are punishable by death or life imprisonment with no parole.

Federal crimes

Misdemeanors and felonies are state crimes. If you violate a federal law, you may be charged with a federal crime. Drug trafficking, kidnapping and certain white-collar crimes are often prosecuted as federal offenses. Since federal crimes carry harsh penalties, it’s essential to retain competent counsel as soon as possible.

Retain a professional criminal defense firm that builds a solid case for you

If you or your loved one is arrested, you need to speak with an experienced defense attorney today. Call McShane & McShane Law Firm, P.A. at 407-648-1500 or contact us online. We offer free initial consultations, are conveniently located near mass transit and have on-site parking available. Se habla español.

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Our Office
  • Orlando Office
    836 North Highland Avenue
    Orlando, Florida 32803-3941
    Phone: 407-648-1500
    Fax: 407-648-2027

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