Being charged with a crime in Brandon can have serious consequences, including affecting your freedom, finances, and reputation. At Metcalf Falls, Criminal Defense Attorneys, P.A., we represent residents throughout the Tampa Bay area in a wide range of criminal matters, including DUIs, drug offenses, domestic violence, and more. Our team is committed to keeping clients informed, providing straightforward guidance, and navigating complex legal situations with skill and efficiency. We work diligently to resolve cases as effectively as possible while protecting your rights.
Reach out today to schedule a free consultation and discover how our Brandon criminal defense attorneys can help you fight your charges.
Why Choose Metcalf Falls for Your Defense?
When facing criminal charges, it’s essential to have a defense team that prioritizes your goals—not just their own. At Metcalf Falls, our attorneys take the time to explain your charges clearly and outline every possible option for your case.
Brett Metcalf began his career as a prosecutor in Tampa, handling more than 5,000 cases, including DUIs, domestic violence, drug offenses, firearms charges, and RICO matters. He personally tried over 100 cases to verdict. Since opening his private practice in 2012, Brett has leveraged this experience and insider understanding of the criminal justice system to provide strong, strategic representation for his clients.
How Our Brandon Criminal Defense Lawyers Can Help
Our Brandon criminal defense team represents clients facing a variety of charges, including:
Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in Brandon
A DUI charge can be overwhelming, and a conviction carries serious consequences, including jail time, fines, and license suspension. In Florida, a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher can result in a DUI charge. The DUI defense attorneys at Metcalf Falls are prepared to thoroughly review your case, challenge the evidence, and work toward having your charges reduced or dismissed.
Drug Crime Defense in Brandon
Florida drug laws are strict, and offenses such as possession, trafficking, distribution, or manufacturing can result in long-term penalties, including imprisonment. A skilled Brandon drug crime defense lawyer can protect your rights, build a strong defense strategy, and fight to minimize the impact of a drug-related conviction on your future.
Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer in Brandon
Accusations of domestic violence not only threaten your future, but they also damage your reputation. Domestic violence cases can involve spouses, other family members, and sometimes even ex-partners. Acting quickly is in your best interest. Our domestic violence defense lawyers are ready to hear your story and help you fight for your freedom. Don’t let an overblown claim or false allegation affect the rest of your life.
Brandon Violent Crime Defense Attorneys
A conviction for a violent crime can have lifelong consequences. Charges can range from street altercations to claims of excessive force in self-defense. Convictions may carry lengthy prison sentences and require registration as a violent offender. You deserve an opportunity to challenge these allegations and protect your future. Our Brandon violent crime defense lawyers work to fight your charges and seek reductions or dismissals whenever possible.
Brandon Sex Crime Defense Lawyers
Accusations of sex crimes can have devastating short- and long-term effects on your life, including threats to your freedom, privacy, and reputation. Some cases arise from false or misleading allegations. It’s critical to act quickly—Metcalf Falls’ sex crimes defense attorneys have the experience and knowledge to protect your rights and begin building a strong defense from the start.
The Importance of Hiring a Criminal Defense Attorney
Being charged with a crime—whether a DUI, domestic violence, or another offense—can feel overwhelming, but it’s important to remember that you are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Building a strong defense that raises reasonable doubt is critical, and the sooner you consult an experienced criminal defense attorney, the better your chances of protecting your rights.
By the time you’re charged, the prosecution has likely already begun gathering evidence. You need an attorney who understands how law enforcement conducts investigations and who can independently examine the facts of your case. A skilled defense lawyer can challenge or suppress evidence, pursue strategies to reduce or dismiss your charges, and guide you through trial preparation if necessary. In many instances, a knowledgeable attorney can also negotiate favorable plea agreements to minimize the consequences, while being fully prepared to fight for your future in court if needed.
Tailored Criminal Defense in Hillsborough County
No two criminal cases are exactly alike. Even if the charges and potential penalties appear similar, each situation requires a unique approach. At Metcalf Falls, we focus on creating individualized strategies that get results for our clients.
Step 1: Book a Free Case Review
We start with a no-pressure, no-cost consultation to examine your situation. During this meeting, we’ll learn the details of your case, explain how we can help, and offer clear guidance on next steps. If you decide not to proceed with our firm, there is no obligation or fee.
Step 2: Act Before Charges Are Filed
An arrest does not automatically lead to criminal charges. By intervening early, we can take proactive measures that may prevent formal charges from being filed. Acting swiftly gives us the chance to protect your record and explore alternative resolutions before the prosecutor makes a decision.
Step 3: Investigate and Build Your Defense
A strong defense begins with a thorough review of the evidence. Our team will analyze police reports, lab results, witness statements, and your account of events. This early investigation often uncovers errors or oversights that can strengthen your position and provide leverage in negotiations with prosecutors. Once we have all the facts, we design a defense strategy that aligns with your objectives.
Step 4: Explore Alternative Resolutions
Many criminal matters can be addressed through pretrial diversion programs, which often involve probation, community service, or other requirements. These programs offer a path to resolving charges without a conviction on your record, potentially leading to dismissal and expungement.
Step 5: Prepare for Court and File Motions
When a case proceeds to court, preparation is critical. Our attorneys leave no stone unturned—challenging improper evidence, advocating for favorable statements, and negotiating plea agreements when possible. If a resolution cannot be reached, we are ready to take your case to trial and require the prosecution to prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Brandon, FL
What’s the difference between a public defender and a private defense attorney?
Public defenders play an essential role in the legal system by representing individuals who cannot afford private counsel. However, they often handle extremely heavy caseloads, which can limit the time and attention they can give each client. A private defense attorney can focus more closely on your case, providing personalized guidance and dedicating more resources to protect your rights.
Should I speak with the police if I’m accused of a crime?
It may seem helpful to answer questions or cooperate, but speaking with law enforcement without legal guidance can be risky. Police can ask questions in ways that are misleading or incriminating. Always wait until your attorney is present before answering any questions, and politely decline to speak until your lawyer is there.
What if I’m falsely accused of a crime?
False allegations, particularly in cases like domestic violence or assault, can happen. If you are wrongly accused, contact a defense attorney immediately. Preserve any evidence—such as texts, emails, or photos—that can challenge the accuser’s claims. Your lawyer can investigate the facts, review the evidence during discovery, and develop a strategy to defend you against the charges.
Can a conviction be expunged in Florida?
Some convictions can be removed from your record through expungement, but not all. Violent crimes—including sexual assault, homicide, trafficking, arson, kidnapping, or assault and battery—cannot be expunged. Your attorney can review your record to determine whether you qualify for expungement or sealing of your case.
Where will my trial take place in Hillsborough County?
Criminal cases in Brandon are handled by the Thirteenth Judicial Circuit in Hillsborough County. Depending on your charges, some hearings may be conducted remotely, but your attorney can advise you on which appearances are necessary and whether your case can be resolved before trial.
Thirteenth Judicial Circuit Court
George Edgecomb Courthouse
800 E Twiggs St
Tampa, FL 33602
Telephone: (813) 272-5894
E-mail: publicinfo@fljud13.org
Which law enforcement agencies may I encounter in Brandon?
If you’re arrested in Brandon, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office is usually involved. The Tampa Police Department may also participate depending on the case, and occasionally the Seminole Police Department could be involved. Arrestees are typically held at the Hillsborough County Jail.
Hillsborough County Jail, Division I
Orient Road Jail
1201 Orient Road
Tampa, FL 33619
(813) 247-8300
Can a juvenile be tried as an adult in Florida?
Yes. In certain circumstances, juveniles as young as 14 may face adult charges, usually for serious felonies or repeat offenses. Being tried as an adult exposes the juvenile to the same penalties as an adult, which could include fines, probation, or even life sentences in extreme cases.
Speak with a Brandon Criminal Defense Attorney Today
If you are facing criminal charges in Hillsborough County, you don’t have to navigate the process alone. You deserve an experienced defense attorney who knows the local courts, understands the law, and will listen to your side of the story. Brett Metcalf, a former prosecutor, leverages his insider knowledge to build strong defenses and protect your rights. You have the right to defend yourself—our Brandon criminal defense team is here to help you safeguard your future.
Call (813) 258-4800 or fill out our contact form to start building your defense today.
