Bartow Criminal Attorney

Criminal Defense Lawyers in Bartow

Florida How to Beat a Criminal Charge in Bartow, Polk County, FL

Have you or a loved one been arrested and charged with a criminal offense in Bartow or Polk County, Florida? If so, you must understand that state prosecutors will aggressively pursue your case to protect the community and uphold Bartow's reputation as a thriving area with rich cultural offerings, parks, and family-friendly activities.

Bartow spans a significant geographical area and is part of the larger Lakeland-Winter Haven Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA), which includes Polk County. This MSA has a population of over 800,000 people. The Polk County Courthouse is located at 255 N Broadway Ave, Bartow, FL 33830.

Crime Statistical Data in Bartow, Polk County, Florida

In 2019, law enforcement in Polk County made a total of 27,787 arrests, averaging about 76 arrests per day. This marked an annual decrease of approximately 5% compared to 2018. The decline in arrests was partly due to a significant drop in home burglaries. The total value of stolen property in 2019 exceeded $28 million. Larceny was the most common criminal charge, with over 9,000 arrests. Larceny offenses include crimes such as shoplifting, pickpocketing, purse snatching, theft of vehicle parts, theft from vehicles, theft from buildings, and bicycle theft.

Free Criminal Defense Consultation – Call Us 24/7 at 863-512-5269

If you or a loved one are facing any criminal charge in Polk County, Florida, it is crucial to discuss your case with our experienced criminal defense attorneys. Call Musca Law 24/7 at 863-512-5269 for a free consultation.

What to Do When You Are Being Questioned By Police

Remain Calm, Respectful, and Silent If you or your loved one have been arrested or are being questioned by the Bartow Police Department or Polk County Sheriff's Office, it is essential to have legal representation. Do not delay! Always remain calm, respectful, and inform the officers that you will answer questions only with your attorney present. Then, contact Musca Law at 863-512-5269. Our firm is available to assist you 24/7.

Never allow skilled interrogators to manipulate you or your family member into making statements that could harm your case. Even innocent individuals can be coerced into false confessions. Law enforcement officers face immense pressure to solve serious crimes, which can lead to manufactured evidence and false accusations. Any interaction with law enforcement should be taken seriously. If you or a family member are being questioned, you are either a witness or a suspect. In either case, contact Musca Law immediately to protect your legal rights and develop a strong defense strategy. Call Musca Law 24/7 at 863-512-5269 for a free consultation.

At Musca Law, Our Bartow Criminal Defense Attorneys Handle All Criminal Matters

Our Bartow criminal defense attorneys represent clients in a wide range of criminal charges, from minor misdemeanors to serious felonies. Our legal team is equipped to handle cases involving:

BUI - Boating Under the Influence BUI Manslaughter BUI with Injuries Domestic Violence Injunctions Dating Violence Injunction Domestic Violence Injunction Sexual Violence Injunction Stalking Injunction Repeat Violence Injunctions Protective Injunctions/Restraining Orders

Drug Crimes - Distribution Manufacturing, Drug Trafficking, Possession of Marijuana, Drug Possession, Prescription Drug Offenses and all other drug charges.

DUI - Driving Under the Influence, Felony DUI Charges, DUI with Injury, DUI Manslaughter ,CDL Driver DUI Defense, Multiple DUIs, DUI Penalties, Field Sobriety Tests, Driver's License Revocation, Hardship Licenses, DUI Checkpoints, Federal DUIs, Federal DUI with Property Damage, DUID - Drugs Medical Marijuana, DUI Investigation, Mistakes to Avoid, DUI & Constitutional Rights, 5th Amendment DUI Stops, and 4th Amendment DUI Stops

Juvenile Crimes

Rape - Sexual Battery

Sex Crimes - Child Pornography, False Allegations of Sexual Assault, Polk County Child Pornography Laws, Offenses, and Penalties Distribution of Child Porn, Exposing a Child to Pornography, and Manufacturing Child Pornography, and all other offenses.

Theft Crimes - Shoplifting, Armed Robbery, FAQS, and Carjacking Charges.

Traffic Offenses - Traffic Tickets, Driving on a Suspended License, reckless driving, and DUI.

Violent Crimes

White-Collar Crimes - If you or a family member are facing criminal charges in Bartow, Polk County, or anywhere in Florida, and are unsure about the nature of your case, contact Musca Law. Our criminal defense attorneys will provide a thorough evaluation and explain the potential penalties you may face.

Categorizing Crimes in Bartow, Florida

Florida law categorizes criminal offenses as either misdemeanors or felonies, each with varying degrees of severity. Minor offenses may not result in jail time, while more serious crimes can lead to lengthy prison sentences, including the death penalty in the most severe cases. The Florida criminal code outlines the guidelines and punishments for all types of criminal offenses.

In Bartow, sentencing guidelines begin at 60 days for minor offenses and can extend to the death penalty for the most severe crimes. Florida's criminal justice system uses the Florida Sentencing Scoresheet to ensure fairness in sentencing across the state. Judges consider case-specific circumstances to determine appropriate punishments.

Some criminal offenses carry mandatory minimum sentences, which means the judge cannot reduce the punishment below a certain threshold. It is important to note that similar crimes may have different penalties based on aggravating or mitigating factors.

Below is a chart detailing the various penalties associated with crimes in Bartow and Polk County, Florida:

Below is a chart that details the various penalties associated with crimes in Bartow and Polk County, Florida:

In Florida, criminal justice judges use the Florida Sentencing Scoresheet to guide the terms of a defendant’s sentence. This Sentencing Scoresheet exists to create some level of fairness in the issuance of punishments throughout the state of Florida. In other words, criminal defendants who are facing similar charges in different Florida counties should also face the same punishments. Florida's criminal justice system is designed to create fairness while still allowing judges to consider certain case-specific circumstances that may warrant a more severe or more lenient jail or prison sentence. Without this type of continuity, the punishments issued by judges or juries would depend on the biases or even the emotions of the various juries or presiding Florida judges.

Should You Fight Your Criminal Charge? Your Musca Law criminal defense attorney will help you determine the best course of action for your case, whether it is seeking a dismissal, reducing the charges, or negotiating a more lenient sentence. Our experienced attorneys will work diligently to achieve the best possible outcome for your situation.

The Other Punishments and Consequences Aside From Fines and Jail or Prison Sentences In addition to fines and imprisonment, a criminal conviction can result in various other punishments and consequences, such as:

Probation, which can last more than a year depending on the crime; Loss of constitutional rights, such as the right to possess a firearm or to vote; Mandatory counseling for anger management, substance abuse, and/or mental health issues; Mandatory educational programs; Mandatory, random alcohol and/or drug testing; A tarnished reputation due to having a criminal record; Difficulties in maintaining or obtaining employment, attending college, applying for credit, or renting a home. Many defendants in Bartow who proceed without experienced legal representation face harsher penalties that could have been avoided. If you or a loved one are facing any criminal charge in Bartow, Polk County, or Florida, it is crucial to seek legal counsel promptly to protect your rights and achieve a favorable outcome.

Florida Criminal Offense, Charges, and Punishments Drug Crimes, Offenses, and Charges

Florida is known for its aggressive prosecution of drug-related crimes. Even minor possession charges can result in severe penalties. Many individuals accused of drug crimes are struggling with addiction and need treatment rather than imprisonment. At Musca Law, we advocate for our clients to receive drug treatment programs instead of prison sentences.

Florida Statutes Chapter 893 outlines the state's drug laws, including the classification of drugs, prohibited acts, and related sentences. Many drug convictions carry mandatory minimum jail terms. Our attorneys have successfully represented clients facing various drug charges, including:

Drug trafficking; Drug manufacturing; Distribution or possession of drug paraphernalia; Possession of controlled substances such as cocaine, heroin, meth, opioids, stimulants, and fentanyl; Possession with intent to distribute; Simple possession of drugs like crystal meth, heroin, morphine, fentanyl, cocaine, and marijuana; Conspiracy to violate Florida's drug laws; Prescription drug offenses; Possession of paraphernalia for drug distribution or consumption. We strive to help our clients avoid jail time and advocate for alternatives such as drug court, counseling programs, probation, dual-diagnosis programs, and drug detoxification or addiction treatment.

Domestic Violence Charges in Bartow, Florida Domestic violence is a serious crime in Florida, and false allegations can be made to gain an advantage in family law matters. Florida law requires law enforcement to arrest individuals accused of domestic violence. Domestic violence laws are governed by Section 741.28 of the Florida Statutes, which defines qualifying relationships.

Penalties for domestic violence convictions can include mandatory jail sentences, strict probation requirements, surrender of firearms, and attendance at batterer intervention programs. Our attorneys represent clients in various domestic violence matters, including:

Domestic Violence Injunctions Dating Violence Injunction Domestic Violence Injunction Sexual Violence Injunction Stalking Injunction Repeat Violence Injunctions Contact Musca Law to discuss your legal situation and protect your rights. Call us 24/7 at (888) 484-5057 for a free consultation.

BUI & DUI Charges and Offenses in Florida DUI and BUI offenses in the Bartow area are taken seriously by law enforcement. Most DUI charges are misdemeanors, but the penalties can be severe, including fines, jail time, and other consequences such as ignition interlock devices, impoundment of vehicles, community service, license suspensions, probation, and driver's education courses.

Florida's DUI laws are outlined in Florida Statutes §316.193. Our DUI defense attorneys represent clients in various DUI-related cases, including:

Boating Under the Influence (BUI) Aggravated DUI Chemical Test Refusals Commercial Drivers (DUI) Driving Under the Influence (DUI) DUI Manslaughter Felony DUI Hit-and-run DUI / Failure to Render Aid DUI License Revocation Hearings Multiple DUIs Property Damage DUI Serious Bodily Injury DUI Vehicular Manslaughter Our experienced attorneys work to defend clients and help them avoid harsh penalties. Contact Musca Law to discuss your DUI or BUI defense strategy. Call us 24/7 at (888) 484-5057 for a free consultation.

Juvenile Justice Court Cases in Florida Juveniles charged with crimes in Florida are typically prosecuted in juvenile court, except when charged as adults. The juvenile court system aims to rehabilitate minors rather than punish them. Potential consequences for juveniles include:

Counseling; Incarceration in juvenile jail for severe cases; Mandatory community service; Placement in a group home or halfway house; Probation; Random drug and alcohol testing. Even though juvenile records are sealed, it is crucial for minors to have legal representation to avoid catastrophic outcomes. Our attorneys advocate for treatment, rehabilitation, and education for minor clients to prevent future criminal behavior.

Sex Crime Offenses & Charges in Florida Sex offense cases in Bartow are complex and carry severe punishments. Our experienced sex crime defense attorneys represent clients in various sex offense cases, including:

Aggravated sexual assault; Aggravated sexual battery; Cyberstalking; Child molestation; Child pornography; Human or sex trafficking; Lewd or lascivious acts; "Pimping;" Prostitution; Sexting; Sexual assault; Sexual battery; Stalking; Sex offender registration-related offenses. A conviction for a sex crime can result in lengthy prison sentences, mandatory sex offender registration, and incarceration in a state treatment center. If you are facing a sex crime charge in Polk County, contact our experienced sex crime defense lawyers at Musca Law. Call us 24/7 at (888) 484-5057 for a free consultation.

Theft Crimes, Offenses, and Charges in Florida Florida Statutes §812.014 outlines the state's theft laws. Theft offenses involve taking property without consent with the intent to deprive the owner. Our theft defense attorneys represent clients in various theft-related crimes, including:

Burglary (See, F.S.§810.02); Embezzlement (F.S. §10.10); Grand theft; Identity theft (See, F.S.§817.568); Larceny; Possession of stolen property; Petit theft; Robbery (See, F.S. §812.13). Victims of theft crimes are often vulnerable, and judges consider the impact on victims when determining sentences. If you are facing theft charges, it is essential to have a strong legal defense. Contact Musca Law for a free consultation at (888) 484-5057.

Violent Crimes in Florida Violent crimes in Bartow are severely punished. Our attorneys work to present the most effective defense strategies, including self-defense, third-party culprit defense, and defense of another. We handle various violent crime cases, including:

Aggravated Battery (F.S. §784.045); Arson (F.S. §806.01); Assault and Battery (F.S. §784.011, See also F.S. §784.03); Attempted Murder (F.S. §782.051); Manslaughter (F.S. §782.07); Rape/Sexual Battery (F.S. § 794.011); Murder (F.S. §782.04); Robbery (F.S. §812.13); Vehicular Manslaughter (F.S. §782.071); Weapons Charges. If you are charged with a violent crime in Polk County, you face severe penalties, including life imprisonment or the death penalty. Contact Musca Law for a free consultation at (888) 484-5057.

Protective Injunctions, Restraining Orders, Orders of Protection in Florida Florida residents can seek protective injunctions to prevent violence. Judges can issue various injunctions, including:

Dating Violence Injunction; Domestic Violence Injunction; Sexual Violence Injunction; Stalking Injunction; Repeat Violence Injunctions. Protective injunctions can have life-altering consequences. If a protective injunction has been filed against you, it is crucial to seek legal representation immediately.

White-Collar and Cyber Crime Defense Cases in Florida White-collar crimes often involve financial or non-violent offenses but can still result in severe penalties. Our attorneys defend clients against various white-collar crimes, including:

Credit Card Fraud/Theft; Conspiracy to Commit Fraud; Embezzlement; Exploitation of Certain Groups; Racketeering; Illegal Financial Transactions; Non-Violent Theft Crimes; Tax Evasion; Wire or bank fraud. Cybercrimes, such as embezzlement, identity theft, child pornography, sex trafficking, and solicitation of minors, are becoming more common. These crimes often involve financial harm or potential physical harm. Our law firm represents clients facing cybercrime charges and works to achieve the best possible outcomes.

Time is of the essence. Contact Musca Law today at (888) 484-5057 or visit our office in Bartow, Florida, to receive the guidance, advocacy, and legal expertise you need. Together, we can work towards a better tomorrow.

Musca Law
240 N Broadway Ave
Bartow, FL 33830
863-512-5269