#1 DUI Defense Lawyer in Tampa
We credit our success to our experience & focus on excellent client service
After an arrest, you should immediately contact an experienced criminal defense lawyer in Tampa. Our team will explain what charges you face, walk you through your options, and begin building your defense strategy. As a former prosecutor, Attorney Brett Metcalf understands exactly how the state builds its case—and he uses that knowledge to protect you.
Learn more about your first court appearance and what to expect.
If someone you care about is in custody and you are seeking help on their behalf, we are happy to speak with you. Metcalf Falls is available around the clock to answer your questions about bond, charges, and next steps.
Request a free consultation and let us start working on your loved one’s defense right away.
A DUI is most people’s first encounter with the criminal justice system, and Florida’s penalties are severe. You only have 10 days to fight an administrative license suspension after a DUI arrest. A Tampa DUI lawyer from Metcalf Falls can protect your driving privileges, challenge the traffic stop and chemical test results, and pursue the best possible outcome.
If this is your first offense, visit our first DUI defense page to learn about your options.
Florida drug charges range from misdemeanor possession to trafficking felonies with mandatory minimum prison sentences, and prosecutors in Hillsborough County pursue them aggressively. A Tampa drug crime lawyer from Metcalf Falls defends every type of drug case — possession, sale and delivery, manufacturing, and trafficking — by challenging the stop, the search, and the state’s evidence at every step.
If you’re facing the most serious charges, visit our drug trafficking defense page to learn what’s at stake.
Never speak to the police without a lawyer present. When you are accused of a crime, anything you say can be used against you in court. Even casual, seemingly harmless statements can be twisted into evidence.
Exercise your right to remain silent and contact a Tampa criminal defense attorney before answering any questions.
Metcalf Falls defends clients against virtually every criminal charge in Hillsborough County, from misdemeanors to serious felonies. Browse our full list of criminal defense practice areas to find the page for your situation, or call us now at (813) 258-4800 for a free consultation.
Brett is the best attorney I’ve ever had. I would recommend his services to anyone in need.
“His communication skills were exceptional — he explained every step clearly, kept us informed, and helped us stay positive throughout the process. Thanks to his dedication and strategic approach, we achieved the best possible outcome. I highly recommend Brent to…
Rigoberto Hernandez
“James Falls took care of me when I was in a time of need. His professionalism and correspondence is unmatched! I’m very grateful for James and his firm! I encourage anybody who needs legal representation to inquire with him! Thank…
DJ Dragan
“Thank you for believing in my son, for fighting for his freedom and for not giving up. Thank you for your vocation, for your empathy and for the way you gave yourself to this case as if it were your…
Iris Bordas
“Brett’s responsiveness, professionalism, and dedication made me feel supported and confident throughout the process. He is a skilled advocate who not only understands the law but also knows how to navigate it strategically to deliver the best possible results. If…
Derrik Vandenburgh
“Brett is an awesome professional attorney! I highly recommend him. Great responsive time and needed information.I will be calling Brett anytime legal advice is needed!!!! GREAT JOB BRETT”
Heidi Taylor
Metcalf Falls, Criminal Defense Attorneys, P.A. know what it takes to defend against:
DUI
From jail time to the impact on your license, a DUI in Tampa carries harsh penalties under Florida Statutes §316.193. With our skill and experience, we fight for the best possible outcome, whether that means challenging the traffic stop, disputing breathalyzer accuracy, or negotiating for reduced charges. Explore your DUI defense options
Domestic Violence
A domestic violence allegation can upend your life, restrict where you live, and threaten your relationships. Sometimes situations escalate, and accusations do not always tell the full story. Our Tampa domestic violence defense lawyers investigate the facts thoroughly and challenge weak or exaggerated claims.
Violent Crimes
A violent crime conviction will follow you for life, affecting employment, housing, and civil rights. Whether you are charged with assault and battery, robbery, or a more serious offense, our Tampa violent crime defense attorneys have the courtroom experience to fight back.
Sex Crimes
A sex crime accusation can shatter your reputation, career, and freedom. A conviction may result in prison time and mandatory sex offender registration. Our Tampa sex crime defense attorneys handle these sensitive cases with discretion and aggressive advocacy.
Drug Crimes
Florida’s drug laws carry severe penalties, including mandatory minimum sentences for trafficking. Whether you are facing a simple possession charge or a more serious distribution allegation, a Tampa drug crime lawyer from Metcalf Falls will challenge the evidence, explore diversion options, and pursue the strongest defense.
Personal Injury
You shouldn’t be held responsible if you or a loved one is hurt because of someone else. You deserve the chance to recover and we can help. Get the facts, know the value, and claim what’s right.
Criminal law covers violations of public law. In Florida, offenses are divided into two categories: misdemeanors and felonies.
Felonies are prosecuted in Hillsborough County Circuit Court and carry the possibility of more than one year in Florida state prison. Felonies are classified by degree:
Third-Degree Felony: Crimes in this category include aggravated assault, felony DUI, and carrying a firearm without a permit. Convictions can result in up to five years in prison, up to five years of probation, and fines up to $5,000.
Second-Degree Felony: Examples include DUI manslaughter, aggravated battery, and leaving the scene of a fatal accident. Penalties include up to 15 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.
First-Degree Felony: This level includes offenses such as drug trafficking, armed robbery, and aggravated child abuse. Convictions can lead to up to 30 years in prison.
Capital and Life Felonies: Capital felonies, such as murder, carry the death penalty, while life felonies—including sexual battery and kidnapping—may result in a life sentence.
Misdemeanors are considered less severe than felonies and are heard in Hillsborough County Court. Penalties include up to one year in county jail.
Second-Degree Misdemeanor: Typically punishable by up to 60 days in jail, six months of probation, and fines up to $500. Common examples include disorderly conduct and leaving the scene of an accident involving property damage only.
First-Degree Misdemeanor: These offenses can result in up to one year in jail, up to one year of probation, and fines up to $1,000. Examples include simple battery, DUI first offense, and petit theft.
Misdemeanors are considered less severe than felonies and carry penalties of up to one year in county jail. These cases are handled in County Court and are classified as either first- or second-degree. Repeat offenses can lead to enhanced penalties.
Typically punishable by up to 60 days in jail, six months of probation, and fines up to $5,000. Common offenses include disorderly conduct and leaving the scene of an accident.
These offenses can result in up to one year in jail, up to one year of probation, and fines as high as $1,000. Additional penalties may include community service, diversion programs, counseling, or drug and alcohol treatment. Examples include domestic violence, simple battery, and marijuana possession.
We’ll Support And Defend You Through Every Step.
Metcalf Falls has spent years practicing in Tampa’s courtrooms. We know the judges, the prosecutors, and the procedures at the George E. Edgecomb Courthouse and the Hillsborough County courthouse complex. This familiarity allows us to support and defend you through every step of the process.
You may learn you are a suspect in an investigation or be contacted by police for questioning. Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney present. Contact Metcalf Falls immediately so we can protect your rights from the outset.
If you are taken into custody, remain silent and call Metcalf Falls immediately. Booking typically takes place at the Hillsborough County Jail on Orient Road or the Falkenburg Road facility. We will begin building your defense from the moment you call.
At your arraignment, we will explain your options, enter a plea on your behalf, and argue for reasonable bail. Arraignment in Hillsborough County typically occurs within 21 days of arrest for felonies. Learn about your plea options in a criminal case.
During the pretrial phase, we represent your best interests at hearings, file strategic motions, and negotiate aggressively to have your charges reduced or dismissed. Depending on the severity of your charge, your case may proceed through the Hillsborough County Criminal Court. You can look up case information through the Hillsborough County Clerk of Court.
Depending on the type and severity of charge you’re facing, your case could proceed through either county or circuit court. If you have a case pending, you can search it in the online records of the Hillsborough County Clerk of Court and Comptroller.
Your case may be held at Hillsborough County Criminal Court if you’re charged with a felony, assault and battery, minor drug crimes, disorderly conduct, or other misdemeanors.
Types of Cases:
Call Our Criminal Defense Attorneys Today
813-258-4800The possible consequences might be harsh, but working with an experienced criminal defense attorney will greatly improve your situation. Our goal will always be to have your charges dismissed, either through negotiation or pre-trial motions. If the charges cannot be completely dismissed, we will work to have them reduced or mitigated because a single incident should not define your life.