St. Augustine Criminal Defense Lawyers

Criminal Defense Attorneys Serving Clients Across Florida

At Canan Law, we offer a comprehensive suite of criminal defense services to address every facet of your legal challenges. Our approach goes beyond typical representation, making sure that each client's unique needs and concerns are met with tailored strategies. With over 60 years of combined experience, we have the skillset and knowledge to help you pursue a favorable outcome. We proudly serve clients in St. Augustine, St. Johns County, and throughout Northeast Florida. Our team combines a deep understanding of local laws with unparalleled dedication to defending your rights.

If you're facing criminal charges, get in touch with us online. Call (904) 849-2266 to request a free consultation and learn how our criminal defense lawyers in St. Augustine, FL, can assist you.

Types of Criminal Cases We Handle in St. Augustine

The procedures involving criminal law are complicated. To mitigate the consequences you could face, hiring an experienced St. Augustine criminal defense attorney is very important.

Our law firm handles a variety of both misdemeanors and felonies, including but not limited to:

• DUI arrests and accidents
• Leaving the scene of a crash
• DUI serious bodily injury or DUI manslaughter charges
• Drug offenses, including trafficking, sale, and possession
• Sex offenses as misdemeanors or felony charges
• Felony or misdemeanor assault and battery
• Juvenile or college crimes
• Kidnapping or homicide
• All federal crimes
• Burglary and car theft
• Traffic offenses, including license suspensions

We also represent individuals during arraignment or bond hearings. A bond hearing is where those arrested are brought before the court to be informed of the charges for arrest and to determine eligibility for release on bond. Arraignment is where those arrested are next brought before the court upon formal charges to enter their plea.

The Criminal Defense Process in Florida

Criminal law does not concern itself with private disputes between individuals, but rather offenses against the public order as defined by the laws of the state. An individual who commits an alleged crime is arrested and then faces a formal criminal charge if the facts are sufficient enough to charge him or her with a crime.

Individuals accused of a crime are called defendants, and they are represented by criminal defense attorneys. A prosecutor, who represents the people or the “state”, pursues the charges against the defendant.

The criminal law process involves a strict set of rules and procedures both the defense attorney and prosecutor must follow to ensure a fair trial for the accused. If the case goes to trial, the prosecutor has the burden to prove to either a judge or jury of peers that the defendant is guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

A conviction or “guilty verdict” results if the prosecution proves the crime was committed. A defendant will be “acquitted” if a jury or judge does not believe the facts are sufficient enough to convict the person on trial beyond a reasonable doubt.

Many cases in the criminal justice system resolve by way of plea agreement between the prosecutor and the defense. Negotiating plea deals is a critical skill a criminal defense attorney must possess in addition to strong legal knowledge and exemplary trial skills.

What Rights Do Defendants Have?

Defendants in a criminal law case have certain rights that are guaranteed to them in the U.S. Constitution under the Sixth Amendment and the Florida state laws. 

These include, but are not limited to:

• The right to an attorney;
• The right against self-incrimination;
• The right to confront witnesses;
• The right against unreasonable searches and seizures; and
• The right to a speedy trial.

Understanding your rights is crucial when facing criminal charges. It empowers you to make informed decisions and facilitates fair treatment throughout the legal process. Our attorneys at Canan Law are dedicated to not only defending your rights but also educating you on each one, so you fully understand your legal standing.

Benefits of Hiring a Criminal Defense Lawyer in St. Augustine

A St. Augustine criminal defense lawyer is essential for protecting these rights as well as providing experienced legal counsel throughout every stage of your case. An experienced criminal attorney will carefully review all evidence gathered by the prosecution, identify weaknesses, and explore possible defenses on your behalf while also ensuring that your constitutional rights are upheld.

Furthermore, a St. Augustine criminal defense lawyer can provide experienced legal counsel, explain all of your options, and help protect your rights. Don’t wait any longer; contact a criminal justice defense lawyer today and get the help you need in order to guard your rights.