The Team You Want On Your Side
Experienced Criminal Defense in Jacksonville
Get Skilled Defense From Highly Awarded Attorneys
If you have been arrested for or charged with a criminal offense in Florida, or if you even believe you are merely under investigation for a crime, you need a skilled criminal defense team now. At First Coast Criminal Defense, we focus our practice almost exclusively on criminal law. With extensive experience and a track record of success, our Jacksonville criminal defense attorneys are well-equipped to represent you in the face of serious accusations.
Call our Jacksonville criminal attorney in Jacksonville now at (904) 474-3115 or contact us online to get started with a complimentary case evaluation. We serve clients throughout Duval, Clay, and Nassau counties.
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“I have had the pleasure of working with First Coast Criminal Defense, and it was a wonderful experience, I would highly recommend this Firm. They are totally responsive and will walk you through each phase step by step!”- Vincent
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“First Coast Criminal Defense have been absolutely marvelous”- Jeremy
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“I will be referring any and every one I know to this law firm.”- Dime
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“I put my confidence in this company and I have zero regrets.”- Robin
Exclusively Dedicated to Criminal Defense
Reputation Built on Results. Relationships Built on Trust
If you're facing serious charges and need someone who’s earned their stripes on both sides of the courtroom, hire Alex King. A Jacksonville native, National Merit Scholar, and top-of-his-class graduate from the University of Florida, Alex combines elite academic credentials with real-world courtroom grit. As a former DUI Unit Chief and award-winning prosecutor recognized by MADD, he brings unmatched experience handling complex cases. Now a fierce defender of clients’ rights, Alex has successfully represented high-profile professionals in everything from DUIs to international fraud. He doesn’t just know the system, he’s mastered it.
Our Areas of Practice
Exclusively Dedicated to Criminal Defense Cases
Misdemeanors and Felonies in Florida
There are two main types of criminal offenses in Florida: misdemeanors and felonies. Although a felony is more serious compared to a misdemeanor, getting convicted of a misdemeanor still carries harsh criminal penalties, including jail time and fines.
Here are the two types of misdemeanors in Florida:
- First-Degree Misdemeanor: This is the most serious type of misdemeanor offense in Florida. The maximum penalties for a first-degree misdemeanor include up to one year in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000.
- Second-Degree Misdemeanor: This is the least serious type of misdemeanor offense in Florida. The maximum penalties for a second-degree misdemeanor include up to 60 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $500.
Our FAQs
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You are not legally required to hire a criminal defense lawyer, but hiring one is always highly recommended, even when facing minor misdemeanor charges. Criminal cases involve strict deadlines, legal procedures, and the threat of serious sentencing requirements if a conviction is reached, and even a small mistake can have lasting consequences on many parts of your day-to-day life. An experienced Jacksonville criminal defense lawyer can help you understand what you are facing, protect your rights, and guide you through the process so you are not navigating it alone.
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Our local criminal defense lawyers bring valuable familiarity with the Jacksonville court system. We understand how local prosecutors tend to approach cases, how judges manage their courtrooms, and what procedures are commonly followed in Duval County. With that local insight, your attorney can make more informed strategic decisions along the way.
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If you are accused of a DUI, a defense attorney from our firm can closely examine how the stop, arrest, and testing were handled. The investigative process may include reviewing whether law enforcement followed proper procedures and whether your constitutional rights were respected. Your attorney may also help address driver’s license issues, such as administrative suspensions, and explore options that could allow you to keep driving while your case is pending.
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There is no single “strongest” defense that applies to every criminal case. Every charge is different, and the most effective defense depends on the specific facts, evidence, and circumstances involved. Your defense strategy should be made to your specific case, rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all approach.
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A defense attorney is a lawyer who represents people accused of crimes. Their role is to protect the accused person’s legal rights and represent them at every stage of the case, including in litigation if it becomes necessary. The overall societal role of defense attorneys is to make sure the criminal defense system stays fair and honest.
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A criminal defense attorney will typically help you by explaining your potential defense options, communicating with prosecutors, and handling court appearances and filings on your behalf. They can review evidence, identify potential weaknesses in the state’s case, and advise you on decisions such as whether to negotiate a plea deal or go to trial.