Jacksonville Criminal Defense Lawyers

Criminal Defense for a Wide Range of Charges

We represent clients across Jacksonville and the surrounding areas in many types of criminal cases, including:

• Assault
• Battery
• Domestic violence
• Drug crimes
• DUI offenses
• Felony crimes
• Juvenile crimes
• Probation violations
• Theft crimes
• Traffic offenses

Working with a law firm that handles a variety of criminal cases can make things simpler for you. Many clients face multiple or overlapping charges, or discover that one case creates legal issues in another area of life. Our full-service structure allows us to see the bigger picture, identify hidden risks, and coordinate a unified legal strategy rather than treating your case in isolation.

Because our attorneys collectively handle thousands of cases across all practice areas, we bring significant courtroom experience, procedural knowledge, and negotiation skills to every defense. Whether your case requires aggressive trial preparation or strategic negotiation, we tailor our approach to your goals and circumstances.

What Happens After an Arrest in Jacksonville?

An arrest can be overwhelming and confusing, especially if it is your first time dealing with the criminal justice system. Understanding the general timeline can help you make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes.

The three main phases or steps that occur after being arrested are:

1. Arrest and Booking: After being taken into custody, you will be transported to jail, fingerprinted, photographed, and booked into the system. Your personal property is collected, and you may be held until bond is set or first appearance occurs. Generally, you should be allowed to make one or more phone calls during this initial booking phase, so you should use it to dial (904) 770-3141.
2. First Appearance: In most cases, first appearance takes place within 24 hours of arrest. A judge reviews the charges, determines whether probable cause exists, and sets bond conditions.
3. Release and Charging Review: After release, the State Attorney’s Office reviews the case and decides whether to formally file charges, reduce them, or decline prosecution.

The period between arrest and formal charging is one of the most critical windows in your case. Please use your phone call to reach out to a Jacksonville criminal defense attorney from Owenby Law, P.A..

Speaking with an experienced criminal defense lawyer from our firm during the booking phase may allow us to:

• Protect your rights during police questioning
• Preserve evidence
• Communicate with prosecutors early
• Seek reduced charges or pre-filing resolutions
• Prepare for bond hearings and court appearances

The sooner we become involved, the more control we may be able to exert over the direction of your case. 

Collateral Consequences of Criminal Charges

Criminal charges do not only threaten jail or prison time. They can also create lasting collateral consequences that affect nearly every aspect of your life.

If you are convicted of a crime in Florida, you could face these collateral “penalties” and more:

• Employment and professional licensing
• Housing applications
• College admissions and financial aid
• Firearm rights
• Immigration status
• Child custody and family law matters

Even a misdemeanor conviction can appear on background checks for years, limiting your opportunities and financial stability. Our defense strategies are created not only to address the immediate charges but also to minimize the long-term impact on your record and future. In many cases, this means pursuing reduced charges, diversion programs, or dismissals whenever possible. Furthermore, with family lawyers on our team, we can even help you if an arrest has jeopardized your familial rights, such as parental rights if you are divorced.

How Our Jacksonville Criminal Defense Lawyers Fight for You

At Owenby Law, P.A., we do not believe in one-size-fits-all defense strategies. Every case receives a tailored plan made around the specific facts, the law, and your personal priorities.

Our team defense model means your case benefits from multiple legal minds working collaboratively. This approach often strengthens legal analysis and uncovers defense angles that might otherwise be missed.

Depending on your case, our defense strategy may include:

• Intervention with law enforcement and prosecutors
• Detailed investigation of arrest procedures and constitutional violations
• Analysis of forensic evidence, breath or blood testing, and lab procedures
• Suppression motions to exclude illegally obtained evidence
• Negotiation for charge reductions or alternative sentencing
• Aggressive courtroom litigation and trial advocacy

Throughout the process, we maintain open communication, so you always understand what is happening and what options are available. Our goal is not only strong legal defense, but clarity, guidance, and support during a stressful time.

Jacksonville Criminal Defense Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Duval County courthouse?
Most criminal cases in Jacksonville are handled at the Duval County Courthouse, located at 501 West Adams Street, Jacksonville, Florida 32202. Additional proceedings may take place at satellite courthouses depending on the type of case and stage of prosecution.

What happens at first appearance?
First appearance usually occurs within 24 hours of arrest. A judge reviews the charges, determines whether probable cause exists, sets bond conditions, and issues any immediate orders, such as no-contact restrictions. This hearing is brief but extremely important, as bond decisions and early rulings can affect how the rest of your case develops.

Should I talk to the police?
You are not required to speak with law enforcement, and in most situations, it is in your best interest to remain silent and request an attorney. Anything you say can be used against you, even if you believe you are helping yourself. Politely invoking your right to remain silent and contacting a criminal defense lawyer immediately can help protect your rights.

How fast does the State file charges?
The State Attorney’s Office typically has up to 40 or 60 days from the date of arrest to formally file charges in misdemeanor cases and longer in felony matters. During this review period, prosecutors examine police reports, evidence, and witness statements before deciding how to proceed. Early legal intervention during this phase can sometimes result in reduced charges or even a decision not to prosecute.

Call Now to Set Up Your Free Initial Consultation

Because we truly care about you and your future, our attorneys at Owenby Law, P.A. offer free initial consultations for up to 30 minutes to new potential clients, so we can understand your situation and decide if we’re the right fit for your defense. Depending on what we learn, we may even be able to discuss what defense strategies could apply to your case. No matter what, from the beginning, we will be ready to put our experience, insight, and team-based approach to work for you.

Contact our Jacksonville criminal defense attorneys today to schedule a no-cost, confidential consultation. Dial (904) 770-3141 at any time.