Tampa Criminal Lawyers

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2018 #1 DUI Defense Lawyer in Tampa

Demand a Serious Criminal Defense Attorney

Because You Expect the Best Possible Outcome

When you are dealing with criminal charges, you know what is at stake and so do we. At Metcalf Falls, Criminal Defense Attorneys, P.A., we represent good people throughout the Tampa Bay area who have been accused of crimes. We provide straightforward, quality guidance in complicated legal situations and use our considerable courtroom experience to find solutions quickly.

Brett Metcalf
We credit our success to our experience & focus on excellent client service Brett Metcalf
How Can We Help You?

After an arrest, you should immediately contact an experienced criminal defense lawyer. As a former prosecutor, Brett Metcalf can examine your case, explain what comes next, and work towards the best possible resolution.

Your First Court Appearance

If someone you care about is in custody and you’re seeking help on their behalf, we’re happy to speak with you. We’re available 24/7, offer free consultations, and can assist with your loved one’s bail hearing. We will fight to get them home.

Request a Free Consultation

Living with a criminal conviction comes with a lot of strain. It could be embarrassing or holding you back professionally. Let us determine if you are eligible to have your record sealed and handle the process of wiping your slate clean.

Expungements in Florida

A DUI is most people’s first encounter with the law, and the punishments are harsh. To properly deal with a DUI, you’ll have to act fast. You only have 10 days to fight a DUI license suspension, and a Tampa DUI lawyer can help your case end favorably.

Get a Free DUI Case Review

Many licensing boards have a duty to report any criminal charge, and even being accused can raise the stakes considerably. We’ll ensure you understand the long and short-term implications involved, fight to have the case dismissed, and defend your livelihood.

Professional License Defense

Never speak to the police without a lawyer. There’s a reason you have the right to remain silent. When you’re accused of a crime, the police will use everything you say against you. And, despite your best intentions, you could be making your situation worse.

Contact a Lawyer Right Now

Attorney Brett Metcalf

Why Hire Metcalf Falls, Criminal Defense Attorneys, P.A.?

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What Our Clients Are Saying

Brett is the best attorney I’ve ever had. I would recommend his services to anyone in need.
Pink Taylor

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06.07.2021

“James Falls did an amazing job helping my son get some charges dismissed. He communicated with us and explained situations where we would’ve otherwise been clueless to maneuver the justice system. Highly recommend their service!”

5 Stars Review 5

Sherri Albert

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05.20.2021

“This firm is the real deal … James does not mess around when it comes to his clients. Very professional.”

5 Stars Review 5

Adrian Reyes

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01.20.2021

“Brett Metcalf is the best lawyer in the Tampa Bay area. He puts 100% into his work and goes far and beyond what you would expect out of a lawyer. If it wasn’t for Brett and Sam, my husband and…

5 Stars Review 5

Janice Luke

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11.19.2020

“This guy treated me like I was a paying customer. He didn’t give me his opinion, he got on the phone to two separate places and got answers. Very impressed. Great free consultation. Telicia Rose went above and beyond in…

5 Stars Review 5

Lee Yates

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08.03.2020

“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”

5 Stars Review 5

Heidi Taylor

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Average 5 out of 5 rating based on 44 Reviews
Practice Areas

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 has harsh penalties. With our skill and experience, we can make all the difference. Learn more about your options after a DUI and get a free DUI case review today.

Visit DUI Page

Expungements

Living with a criminal record is tough. Having your criminal record sealed or expunged can give you the clean slate you’ve been looking for. Learn if your eligible, what steps to take, and how we can help you get a fresh start.

Visit Expungements Page

Domestic Violence

Don’t let an allegation impact your reputation or life. Sometimes situations get out of hand, people make false claims, and arrests are often made with little evidence. Learn what to expect and how to deal with domestic violence charges.

Visit Domestic Violence Page

Violent Crimes

Aside from possible time behind bars, a violent conviction will follow you forever. You deserve the chance to explain and protect yourself. We’ll ensure your side of the story is told.

Visit Violent Crimes Page

Sex Crimes

A sex crime accusation can shatter your life, career, and reputation. A conviction can result in prison and being labeled as a sex offender. Don’t take these charges lightly or try to explain things without a lawyer. Know your rights and defend yourself from the beginning.

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Drug Crimes

The drug laws in Florida are outdated and harsh. A conviction can mean years in prison, and life-long hurdles to overcome. However, your case is not hopeless. There is a lot we can do to improve your situation.

Visit Drug Crimes Page

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.

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Criminal Defense Law

Criminal law covers violations of public law. In Florida, offenses are divided into two categories: misdemeanors and felonies.

Felonies are handled in Circuit Court and punishable by potentially more than one-year in prison. Felonies are further classified into degrees based on their severity.

Third-Degree Felony

Examples include aggravated assault, felony DUI, and carrying a firearm without a permit. Punishable by up to five years in prison, five years’ probation, and a $5,000 fine.

Second-Degree Felony

Examples are DUI manslaughter, aggravated battery, and leaving an accident involving death. Penalties include up to 15 years in prison, 15 years of probation, and a $10,000 fine.

First-Degree Felony

Examples are drug trafficking, robbery with a weapon, and aggravated child abuse. They are punishable by up to 30 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

Capital and Life Felonies

Capital felonies, like murder, are punishable by death. Life felonies are punishable by a life sentence and a $15,000 fine. Examples include sexual battery and kidnapping.

Misdemeanors are less serious and punishable by up to one year in county jail. Misdemeanors are handled in County Court and classified as first or second-degree. Some misdemeanor penalties can be heightened based on a second or subsequent conviction.

Second-Degree Misdemeanor

These are punishable by up to 60 days in jail, six months of probation, and a fine of up to $5,000. Common examples are disorderly conduct and leaving the scene of an accident.

First-Degree Misdemeanor

Punishable by up to one year in jail, one year of probation, and a $1,000 fine. Other penalties are community service, diversion classes, counseling, and/or drug and alcohol treatment. Examples include domestic violence, marijuana possession, and simple battery.

The Hillsborough County Justice System

With the help of our criminal defense lawyers, you can be prepared to confidently face Hillsborough County’s court system. We’ll guide you through steps like:

  • Criminal Investigation — You may learn you’re a suspect in an investigation or be contacted by police for questioning. Contact our lawyers in Tampa right away to protect your rights.
  • Arrest — If you’re taken into custody, remain silent and call Metcalf Falls immediately. We’ll start building your defense and help you avoid self-incrimination.
  • Arraignment — We’ll explain your options, enter a plea, and argue for reasonable bail.
  • Pre-Trial Appearances — We’ll represent your best interests at hearings and negotiate aggressively to have your charges reduced or dismissed.

Depending on the type and severity of charge you’re facing, your case could proceed through either county or circuit court at Edgecomb Courthouse in downtown Tampa, located at 800 E Twiggs St. If you have a case pending, you can search it in the online records of the Hillsborough County Clerk of Court and Comptroller.

Hillsborough County’s Criminal Court handles misdemeanors and civil infractions, which are non-criminal, non-traffic infractions. County court misdemeanors include petit theft, prostitution, and marijuana possession, while civil infractions include littering, boating citations, and game/fresh water fish citations. Criminal traffic cases are also heard in county court.

Matters extending beyond the county court’s jurisdiction go to the Thirteenth Circuit Court. This is the highest state trial court where most jury trials take place. In addition to criminal felony cases, the circuit court hears matters related to family law, probate, and juvenile delinquency, among others. The circuit court also organizes and manages programs such as mental health court, pretrial intervention, and diversion services.

Hillsborough County Crime Statistics

As one of the most populous counties in Florida, it’s no surprise that Hillsborough County has one of the highest incarceration rates in the state. The county sheriff’s office keeps detailed records of crime as it occurs around the Tampa Bay area, which can be accessed here.

Tampa prosecutors are tough on crime and will work to develop a strong case against you — that’s why you need a defense attorney who will work just as hard to get your charges reduced or dismissed.

Our Results
Self Defense in Battery Trial We argued that he was actually defending himself at trial and the jury agreed to a not guilty verdict..
Woman Paralyzed by Tow Truck Driver Obtains Confidential Settlement Attorney Metcalf obtained a confidential settlement from both the tow truck company’s insurance and his client’s own insurance company.
Armed Robbery – Declined to File We negotiated with the prosecutor, and they ultimately declined to file formal charges based on having such limited information.
Men Resolve Sexual Abuse Claims Against Catholic Diocese After years of litigation and investigation, attorney Metcalf obtained confidential settlements for both young men.

The 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.

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