The Law Offices of Paul D. Petruzzi, P.A. provide criminal defense representation in Miami, Miami-Dade County, and throughout South Florida. We handle matters in both federal and Florida state courts, including the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida and the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals. If you are under investigation or facing charges, we offer a free consultation to discuss your situation and how we may be able to help.
Criminal Defense Representation in Miami-Dade and South Florida
If you are facing criminal charges in Miami, Miami-Dade County, or elsewhere in South Florida, securing an experienced criminal defense lawyer is one of the most important steps you can take. The Law Offices of Paul D. Petruzzi, P.A. provide trial-ready representation in both state and federal courts, including the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals and the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida (SDFL), which includes the Miami Division.
Our firm represents individuals and corporations in Miami-Dade County Court (Circuit and County), in federal court in Miami, and in courts throughout Florida and the nation. Whether your case involves Miami DUI charges, drug crimes, federal criminal defense, or other serious offenses, we are prepared to build a strategic defense tailored to your situation.
This page provides an overview of criminal defense in the Miami area, the courts and processes you may encounter, and how our firm may assist you. For case-specific advice, contact us for a free consultation.
Miami-Dade County and Florida State Courts
Criminal cases in Miami and the surrounding area are typically handled in Miami-Dade County Court (County Court for misdemeanors and some felonies) or the Eleventh Judicial Circuit Court (Circuit Court for felonies and certain other matters). Both sit in Miami. Procedures, sentencing options, and exposure vary significantly between misdemeanor and felony cases.
State cases in Florida are prosecuted by the Office of the State Attorney. In Miami-Dade, that is the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office. Understanding local practices, judges, and courtroom procedures in these courts can be important to your defense. A Miami criminal defense lawyer who regularly practices in these courts can advise you on what to expect and how to approach your case.
Federal Criminal Cases in Miami
Federal charges are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida. The courthouse in Miami is used for cases arising in the Miami Division. Federal cases often involve longer investigations, grand juries, and the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, which can result in substantial prison time. There is no parole in the federal system.
If you are under federal investigation or have been indicted, consulting a Miami federal criminal defense lawyer as early as possible is critical. Our firm handles federal matters nationwide and is familiar with SDFL procedures and the Eleventh Circuit on appeal.
Common Types of Cases We Handle in Miami
Our Miami criminal defense practice includes, but is not limited to: DUI and traffic-related offenses, drug possession and drug trafficking, domestic violence and assault, theft and robbery, probation violations, and record sealing and expungement. We also handle white-collar and financial crimes, firearms offenses, and serious violent crimes. Each area has its own statutes, procedures, and potential consequences in Miami-Dade and in federal court.
For more detail on a specific area, see our dedicated Miami service pages, including our Miami DUI lawyer page, Miami drug crimes lawyer page, and Miami expungement lawyer page. We also encourage you to review our general Practice Areas and criminal defense FAQ for broader context.
When to Contact a Miami Criminal Defense Lawyer
You should contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as you believe you are under investigation or once you have been arrested or charged. Early representation can help protect your rights during questioning, bond hearings, and arraignment. In Miami-Dade, bond court and first appearances move quickly; having counsel in place can make a significant difference.
We offer a free consultation to discuss your situation. We can meet in person at our office or by secure video. If you are facing charges in Miami or South Florida, request a free consultation today.
Disclaimer: This page provides general information and does not create an attorney–client relationship. The information presented is not legal advice and should not be relied upon without consulting with a qualified attorney about your specific situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a Miami criminal defense lawyer do?
A Miami criminal defense lawyer represents individuals and companies accused of crimes in Miami-Dade County, the Southern District of Florida (federal), and other courts. They advise on rights, build a defense strategy, handle motions and negotiations, and represent clients at trial and on appeal.
How do I choose a criminal defense attorney in Miami?
Look for experience in the type of case you face (state vs. federal, DUI, drugs, etc.), familiarity with Miami-Dade and federal courts, and a track record of trial and appellate work. Schedule a consultation to discuss your case and see if the attorney is a good fit.
Do you handle both state and federal cases in Miami?
Yes. Our firm handles criminal cases in Florida state courts (including Miami-Dade) and in federal court, including the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida and the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals.
What courts do you practice in for Miami cases?
We practice in Miami-Dade County Court, the Eleventh Judicial Circuit Court (Miami), the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida (Miami Division), and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit, as well as other state and federal courts.
Is the first consultation free?
Yes. We offer a free consultation to discuss your situation and how we may be able to help. Contact us by phone or through our website to schedule.
Request a Free Consultation
If you need assistance with a criminal matter in Miami or South Florida, we are available to discuss your situation and explore how we may be able to help.