Criminal Defense Attorney Tampa
- Don’t talk to police about the facts. Politely say: “I want a lawyer.” Then call (813) 800-4529.
- DUI? Administrative license suspensions start immediately after arrest—deadlines apply. See FLHSMV DUI Admin Suspensions.
- Speedy Trial updated (effective July 1, 2025): the clock now starts at formal charges, with new timelines. Florida Bar News
- Sealing/Expungement may be possible for eligible cases (requires FDLE Certificate of Eligibility). FDLE
Arrested or Under Investigation in Hillsborough County? We’re Ready Now.
Facing criminal charges in Tampa is stressful and time-sensitive. Attorney William Franchi—a former Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office deputy turned trial lawyer—leads our defense team with a law-enforcement-level approach to evidence, procedure, and negotiation. We defend misdemeanors and felonies across Tampa Bay, including DUI, domestic matters, drug offenses, theft/fraud, and violent crime allegations.
- Confidential case review—get clear next steps before you make a decision.
- Early intervention with prosecutors can impact charges, bond conditions, and outcomes.
- Client-first communication by phone, text, or video—whatever works for you.
What To Do After an Arrest in Tampa
- Use your rights: Provide identification only. Ask for a lawyer. Do not consent to searches or answer incident questions.
- Call us from booking or after release: (813) 800-4529. We assist with bond, no-contact orders, and immediate evidence preservation.
- Find case info: Check the Clerk’s portals for court records and hearings (Clerk · HOVER). For jail status, use the HCSO Arrest Inquiry.
- DUI? Administrative license actions start right away. Review official FLHSMV guidance and deadlines. DUI FAQs
Criminal Charges We Handle in Tampa
First-time, repeat, felony DUI, refusal, suspensions, ignition interlock. DUI Defense · First-Time DUI · Felony DUI
Possession, trafficking, prescription cases, search & seizure challenges.
Battery, aggravated assault, injunction violations, weapons charges.
Petit/Grand theft, fraud, embezzlement, schemes to defraud, cyber crimes.
Violations, early termination, and sealing/expungement when eligible (FDLE).
Florida Law: Key Rules That Affect Your Case
Speedy Trial (Rule 3.191 — Updated)
Effective July 1, 2025, speedy-trial periods begin when formal charges are filed (not arrest). The court must set trial within revised windows after a speedy-trial demand, and the recapture period is now 30 days. See Florida Bar News summary.
Statute of Limitations (Fla. Stat. §775.15)
General limits (exceptions apply): 4 years for most first-degree felonies, 3 years for other felonies, and 2 years for first-degree misdemeanors. Always verify your specific charge. §775.15
DUI Law & Penalties (Fla. Stat. §316.193)
Florida defines DUI and sets penalty ranges that increase with aggravators (high BAC, minor in vehicle, prior DUIs, injury, or death). §316.193 · Admin suspensions (FLHSMV)
Sealing/Expungement (Fla. Stat. §§943.059, 943.0585)
Record relief typically requires an FDLE Certificate of Eligibility and a court order. Eligibility limits apply and many convictions (including most DUI convictions) cannot be expunged. FDLE overview · Certificate instructions
Our Defense Process
- Emergency actions: Contact with you/your family, bond guidance, protect communications.
- Evidence sprint: Body-cam/911, dispatch logs, surveillance, scene photos, medical records, phone data, expert review.
- Hearings & motions: Suppression (search/seizure), exclusion of statements, dismissal, evidentiary challenges.
- Negotiations: Charge reductions/diversion where possible; otherwise, we prepare for trial.
- Long-term relief: When appropriate, we counsel on sealing/expungement steps after resolution. FDLE steps
Hillsborough County Resources
Tampa Criminal Defense FAQs
How soon should I hire a criminal defense lawyer?
Immediately. Early counsel can influence charging decisions, bond, evidence preservation, and whether to assert speedy-trial rights under the updated rules. See the Florida Bar’s summary.
What are Florida’s criminal statutes of limitations?
Generally: first-degree felonies 4 years; other felonies 3 years; first-degree misdemeanors 2 years (with exceptions). Always check your specific charge. §775.15
What happens to my license after a DUI arrest?
Florida imposes administrative suspensions immediately after a DUI arrest, separate from the criminal case. Time-sensitive steps apply (e.g., review/hearing). See FLHSMV: Administrative Suspension and the DUI statute.
Can I seal or expunge my arrest?
Possibly—if you’re eligible and obtain an FDLE Certificate of Eligibility, then a judge must sign an order. Many convictions (including most DUI convictions) are not expungeable. FDLE overview · Certificate instructions
Where do I find my court date or case documents?
Use the Clerk’s online portals for case lookups, hearing calendars, and certified copies. HOVER · Clerk home
A Tampa Team You Can Reach—And Rely On
Clients choose Franchi Law for rapid response, transparent communication, and a trial-ready approach. We serve Tampa, Riverview, Brandon, and the greater Tampa Bay area.
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Your future matters more than a quick plea. Get a clear plan for protecting your rights and minimizing the impact on your life.