If you need an Orlando criminal defense lawyer, the most important step is getting legal help quickly. The Rivas Law Firm, P.A. defends people facing misdemeanor, felony, and federal charges in Orlando and throughout Central Florida, and the goal from day one is to protect your freedom, your record, and your future.
An arrest does not mean a conviction. A strong defense can challenge the traffic stop, search, witness statements, forensic testing, or the prosecution’s theory of the case before the case ever reaches trial.
If you were arrested, contacted by police, served with a subpoena, or told you are under investigation, call 407-644-2466 for a consultation with an Orlando criminal defense attorney at The Rivas Law Firm, P.A.
What does an Orlando criminal defense attorney do?
An Orlando criminal defense lawyer works to protect you at every stage of a criminal case, from investigation and arrest through bond, arraignment, plea negotiations, motions, hearings, and trial. That includes reviewing the evidence, identifying constitutional issues, challenging unlawful searches or statements, negotiating with prosecutors, and building the strongest path toward potential dismissal, reduction, diversion, or acquittal.
At The Rivas Law Firm, P.A., we represent clients in Orange County, Seminole County, Osceola County, and surrounding Central Florida courts. Whether you are facing a first-time misdemeanor or a serious felony, early legal intervention often creates more options.
Why hire The Rivas Law Firm, P.A.?
Not every Orlando criminal defense attorney offers the same level of experience, responsiveness, and local court knowledge. Clients choose our firm because we focus on practical defense strategies and clear communication during one of the most stressful times in a person’s life.
- Direct defense for criminal cases in Orlando and Central Florida
- Bilingual support in English and Spanish
- Representation for both state and federal criminal matters
- Defense strategies tailored to the facts, the court, and your goals
- Guidance from the first court date through final resolution
What criminal charges do you handle?
We defend clients across a wide range of criminal cases, from common misdemeanor arrests to high-stakes felony and federal prosecutions. If you do not see your charge listed below, contact us anyway, because many cases overlap and require a customized defense strategy.
| Charge or issue | How we help |
|---|---|
| DUI defense | Challenge the stop, testing, officer observations, and license-related consequences |
| Domestic violence charges | Defend against allegations, no-contact complications, and high-stakes pretrial decisions |
| Drug crimes | Review search and seizure issues, possession allegations, trafficking weight, and diversion options |
| Assault and battery | Challenge witness credibility, self-defense issues, and injury allegations |
| Federal crimes | Respond to subpoenas, investigations, indictments, and federal sentencing exposure |
| Juvenile charges | Protect young clients from avoidable long-term consequences |
| Record sealing and expungement | Evaluate eligibility and help clear qualifying records |
What should you do after an arrest in Orlando?
The first few hours after an arrest can shape the entire case. What you say, what you post, and whether you call a lawyer immediately can all affect the outcome.
- Stay silent except to identify yourself.
- Do not try to explain your side to police.
- Ask for a lawyer clearly and immediately.
- Do not discuss the case on social media.
- Contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.
The earlier a defense lawyer gets involved, the more opportunities there may be to challenge the case, protect your rights, and influence how prosecutors evaluate the file.
How can a defense lawyer help before trial?
A large percentage of criminal cases are shaped well before a jury is ever selected. Pretrial defense work can include bond advocacy, witness review, suppression motions, negotiation with prosecutors, investigation of the facts, and presentation of mitigating evidence.
In some cases, the result may be dismissal. In others, it may be reduced charges, entry into diversion, protection from jail, or a trial strategy built around reasonable doubt. A good Orlando criminal defense attorney does not use a one-size-fits-all approach.
Meet your Orlando criminal defense team
The Rivas Law Firm, P.A. represents clients accused of crimes throughout Central Florida. Our team understands how criminal charges affect every part of a person’s life, including employment, professional licensing, immigration concerns, family obligations, and reputation.
When you hire our firm, you are not just hiring someone to stand next to you in court. You are hiring a legal team to evaluate the evidence, explain your options, and fight for the optimal result under the facts of your case.
How do I choose the right criminal defense lawyer in Orlando?
You want a criminal defense team with relevant experience, strong communication, and a defense strategy that fits your specific facts. You should look for a lawyer who regularly handles criminal cases, knows the local courts, explains the process clearly, and responds quickly when the stakes are high.
A consultation is also your chance to ask direct questions about the charge, possible penalties, likely next steps, and the attorney’s approach to negotiation and trial preparation.
How much does a criminal defense lawyer cost in Orlando?
The cost depends on the type of charge, the complexity of the facts, whether the case is in state or federal court, and whether the case is likely to require motions, hearings, or trial. In most situations, the financial and personal cost of a conviction is far greater than the cost of hiring an experienced defense attorney early.
If you are comparing lawyers, ask what is included in the fee, how communication works, and what stage of the case the quoted fee covers.
FAQ
What happens after I am arrested in Orlando?
After an arrest, you may be booked, held for first appearance, and given bond conditions before the case moves into arraignment and pretrial proceedings. A criminal defense lawyer can step in early to protect your rights and begin evaluating defenses immediately.
Can charges be dropped before trial?
Yes. Depending on the facts, charges may be reduced or dropped before trial through evidentiary challenges, legal motions, pre-filing advocacy, or negotiation with prosecutors.
How do I find a good criminal defense lawyer in Orlando?
Look for a lawyer with criminal defense experience, familiarity with local courts, strong client communication, and a clear plan for your case. Ask how quickly they can act and what they would focus on first in your situation.
Do I need a lawyer if this is my first arrest?
Yes. First-time defendants often assume the case will work itself out, but early mistakes can have long-term consequences. A lawyer can help protect your record, evaluate diversion options, and reduce unnecessary risk.
Speak with an Orlando criminal defense lawyer today
If you were arrested, charged, or believe you are under investigation, do not wait for the case to get worse before getting help. Call 407-644-2466 to speak with The Rivas Law Firm, P.A. and get answers about your next step.
Jose Rivas has litigated thousands of criminal cases and is a veteran bilingual TV Legal Analyst who has appeared on Univision, Fox News, Telemundo, and many other news outlets. He is highly rated on professional platforms, maintaining a 4.9/5.0 rating on Avvo based on dozens of client reviews.