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What Are the Benefits of Hiring O’Mara Law Group?

Criminal cases are complicated. All too often, the government is more interested in securing a conviction than uncovering the truth. You absolutely must have a criminal defense lawyer to stand up for your rights. Remember, you are innocent until proven guilty, and you deserve a lawyer who can fight back against a justice system set up against you. Hiring a legal team led by an attorney with decades of experience handling cases on both sides of the criminal justice aisle will help protect you against unfair charges and potentially life-altering consequences. When you choose O’Mara Law Group, our criminal defense lawyers will:

  • Be present during all questioning to protect your rights.
  • Fight for reasonable bail if it is set too high in your case.
  • Conduct an independent investigation, including into the crime alleged and evidence.
  • Scour discovery materials and information from our investigation to find exculpatory evidence.
  • Identify weaknesses in the state's case that we can use to your advantage.
  • Determine if your constitutional rights were violated in any way, such as through an unlawful arrest or illegal search and seizure.
  • Lead conversations with the police, investigators, and state attorneys and advise you on plea agreements.
  • Carefully question potential jurors during voir dire and try to dismiss those who seem inclined against you before hearing evidence.
  • File pre-trial and trial motions asking the judge to exclude evidence that is not valid, reliable, or permissible.
  • Investigate and thoroughly cross-examine the state's witnesses.
  • Argue persuasively in front of a judge and jury that you are not guilty of the charges against you.

You need an experienced criminal defense team with knowledge of the area, courts, and key players involved in your case. Our attorneys have decades of combined experience helping people like you face both state and federal charges.

Can I Afford To Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Orlando?

Criminal charges in Florida carry harsh penalties, so you should ask yourself instead whether you can afford the consequences of a conviction. People often make the mistake of thinking they don’t need representation for misdemeanor charges. However, even misdemeanors can carry fines and potential jail time for each charge. People facing felony charges face even higher fines and longer prison sentences.

Potential fines and incarceration lengths for criminal offenses in Florida include:

  • Second-degree misdemeanors – $500 fine and up to 60 days imprisonment
  • First-degree misdemeanors – $1,000 fine and up to 1 year imprisonment
  • Third-degree felony – $5,000 fine and up to 5 years imprisonment
  • Second-degree felony – $10,000 fine and up to 15 years imprisonment
  • First-degree felony – $10,000 fine and up to 30 years imprisonment or life for certain crimes
  • Life felonies – $15,000 fine and 40 years imprisonment to life

Florida also has severe penalties for DUI offenses. A first DUI offense results in a fine of at least $500, up to $1,000, and potentially up to six months in jail. Subsequent convictions carry increasingly higher penalties, and there are enhancements based on factors such as blood alcohol content and whether a child was in the car.

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Criminal Defense

Other Consequences of Florida Criminal Convictions

In addition to criminal penalties, people convicted of crimes in Florida potentially face numerous collateral consequences, including:

  • Loss of employment
  • Inability to hold certain work licenses or apply for certain jobs
  • Loss of driver's license
  • Loss of the right to carry a firearm
  • Adverse family law decisions

You have too much to lose to face criminal charges without the assistance of a battle-hardened Orlando criminal defense attorney. Partner with our skilled defense team so we can use our extensive criminal law experience to your advantage. We will fight tirelessly for your freedom and shield you against a potential lifetime of hardships related to a criminal conviction.

When people come to see me and ask about a criminal case, they want to know what's going to happen and they're afraid.They say on TV that all cases go to trial and all people get convicted and go to prison. Quite honestly, that's not true. Most cases resolve themselves without going to trial, either through plea negotiations to work something out with the prosecutor to minimize the damage, or even diversion programs where we take you out of the court system and into what's a bit like a probation sentence, and then resolve the case that way. There are many opportunities and alternatives to trying the case in front of a jury. Of course, if we have to go in front of the jury, we're very capable and willing to do so. For the most part, we can help you resolve this case, minimizing the damage to you, and at least, find out how we can get you through this process with the least amount of stress and concern.

In the Words of Our Founder, Mark O’Mara

O’Mara Law Group

Criminal Defense

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Family & Criminal Law Testimonial

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How Florida’s Criminal Justice System Differs from Other States

Compared to other states, Florida’s criminal justice system has several distinct features that can impact criminal cases, including the following:

  • Stand Your Ground law: Under the 2018 Florida Statutes Section 776.012, individuals are allowed to use force or deadly force to defend themselves or others if they reasonably believe they are in danger of serious bodily harm or death, with no duty to retreat. As other states require individuals to retreat if possible before using force, Florida law provides broader protection in self-defense cases.
  • Harsh sentencing guidelines: Florida is known for its harsh sentencing guidelines, particularly for violent crimes and drug-related offenses. The state’s mandatory minimum sentencing laws can mean lengthy prison terms for certain crimes.
  • Sentencing scoresheet: The Florida Criminal Punishment Code Scoring System assigns points to determine sentencing for felony offenders based on the severity of the offense, prior convictions, and other factors. It goes from level one to level 10 and applies to all felony offenses. Points do not go away. Points from a previous crime count toward the overall total at sentencing.
  • Speedy trial rules: Under Rule 3.191 of the Florida Rules of Criminal Procedure, the state must bring the defendant to trial within 90 days for a misdemeanor and 175 days for a felony. If the prosecution fails to meet the deadline, the defendant can file a motion to dismiss. This “speedy trial” timeline is notably shorter than in other states.
  • Strict DUI laws: In Florida, you do not have to blow a .08 on a breathalyzer to be convicted of DUI. The prosecution can use an elevated BAC and circumstantial evidence to make a case against you. Penalties for DUI are very strict in the state. A conviction will bring mandatory fines, license suspension, mandatory jail time, or ignition interlock installation.
  • Direct filing of juvenile cases: No state in the U.S. prosecutes juveniles as adults on felony charges more than Florida. The state’s direct file statute (985.557 ) allows prosecutors to charge certain juveniles as adults in criminal court. Minors accused of serious crimes may face adult charges and penalties, including lengthy prison sentences.
  • Death penalty: Florida is one of the few states that actively enforces the death penalty today. While it exists in other states, Florida has a higher rate of death row convictions. The law was amended in 2023 to allow juries to recommend a death sentence by a vote of at least eight to four rather than by a unanimous vote.
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Types of Cases We Defend

Our firm has achieved notable victories statewide, defending clients against serious criminal charges, including prevailing in the George Zimmerman case in one of the country’s most controversial criminal trials. We offer skilled defense in a wide range of criminal matters, including the following:

  • Assault
  • Domestic Violence
  • Drug Crimes
  • Federal Crimes
  • Felony Crimes
  • Forgery
  • Internet Crimes
  • Juvenile Criminal Defense
  • Misdemeanors
  • Murder, Homicide
  • Probation Violations
  • Self Defense Cases
  • Sex Crimes
  • Weapon Offenses
  • White Collar Crimes
  • Internet Sex Crimes
  • 2nd Amendment Cases
  • Child Pornography

DUI Defense in Orlando

  • Felony DUI
  • DUI Manslaughter
  • First Offenses
  • Second Offenses
  • Third Offenses
  • Fourth Offenses

Fraud Defense Attorney

  • Bank Fraud
  • Embezzlement
  • Healthcare Fraud
  • Identity Theft
  • Insurance Fraud
  • Mail Fraud
  • Money Laundering
  • Mortgage Fraud
  • PPP Fraud
  • Securities Fraud
  • Tax Fraud
  • Wire Fraud
  • Federal Healthcare Fraud
  • Federal Insurance Fraud
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Why Choose Us?

At O’Mara Law Group, we have decades of experience handling cases on both sides of the criminal justice system. Our board-certified criminal lawyers in Orlando will keep you informed throughout every step of the process, are available day and night, challenge every flaw in the prosecution’s case against you, and fight for the most favorable outcome. Contact us for skilled criminal defense statewide.

Assault

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Domestic Violence

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Drug Crimes

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Criminal Defense FAQ

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Federal Crimes

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Felonies

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Forgery

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Internet Crimes

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Juvenile Defense

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Misdemeanor

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Murder / Homicide

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Probation Violation

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Restraining Order

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Sealing Expungement

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Self Defense

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Sex Crimes

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Weapon Offenses

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White Collar Crimes

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Internet Sex Crimes

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2nd Amendment Cases

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Child Pornography

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Testimonials

What Our Clients Say

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Compassionate Assistance

The Mark O’Mara Law Firm was a wonderful place and outstanding. Mark was very helpful and always made time for me, answering all my questions. But my hero was Susan Staggs, who prepared all of my paperwork. She is a real magician who takes it seriously.

N.L.

Exceptional Service

Mark O'Mara and his office provided excellent service, demonstrating professionalism and personal attention to all my details of my cases. He is one of the best in his field as a criminal and family attorney. He is honest, direct, and he always does his best for his client.

K.M.

Support in Family Law

Mr. O’Mara and his entire staff, especially Alyssa, were absolutely impressive with everything. Very efficient and punctual; their understanding of every little detail was way beyond expectations. Honestly, this law group has made a major difference in my life.

K.R.

Expert Guidance in Family Law

I can't thank Mr. Thompson and his team enough for their outstanding support. From the very first meeting, Sarah was incredibly knowledgeable and attentive. They handled every aspect of my case with such professionalism and care. This legal team truly changed my life.

B.M.

Dedicated to Fighting Your Cause

Knowing Mark O’Mara as an attorney who has represented me for the past 23 years and has also been a friend… I can say that Mark is not only dedicated to fighting your cause, but his team shares that same dedication. When you call his office the girls at the front desk always strive to assist you. As for the rest of his team they are committed to winning the best...

R.M.

Nothing Short of Amazing

Mr O’Mara and the entire staff were nothing short of amazing. Mr. O’Mara knew exactly what we needed to do and has even offered additional advice for any future risks. This was all new for me and they walked me through everything step by step and were very patient and most of all responsive and caring. THANK YOU!!!

G.G.

They Are Top Notch!!!!

I cannot express the gratitude I have for Mark O’Mara, Susan and their firm. I had a very difficult custody situation and they guided me towards the best decisions and fought for me. I highly recommend O’Mara Law Group. They are top notch!!!!

M.M.

Such a Professional and Personable Firm.

Such a professional and personable firm. Everyone treated me with respect throughout my entire process. I absolutely dread ever needing the services of an attorney again but I would certainly go straight back to Mark. Susan was awesome and she totally got me from day one. I can’t begin to say how helpful that was for me. Thank you to the entire team!!

S.D.

I Am Truly Proud

By far, the best person, if you ever need an attorney and someone who will always be there for you. I am truly proud to have Mark as my attorney, advisor and friend. Thanks Mark and Alyssa. Michael Hoffman, Attorney at Law and C.P.A.

M.H.

Way Beyond Expectations

Mr. O’Mara and his entire staff especially Alyssa were absolutely impressive with everything. Very efficient and punctual and the overall understanding of every little detail was way beyond expectations. Honestly this law group has made a major difference in my life and helped me through many obstacles associated with owning multiple businesses and continue to do so in...

N.L.

They Were Ready to Fight the Fight

When I went in for my consultation with Mark and Caitlin, I was in a state of total devastation. They lifted the burden and took away the stress of my situation by making me feel completely taken care of. They were ready to fight the fight I didn’t have the emotional strength to do so on my own. I have and will continue to recommend their law group to anyone needing le...

M.S.

Mark Omara was GREAT

Mark has represented me and I hate to say 2 family members of mine, all 3 times mark has delivered success. He has to be the best lawyer I have ever dealt with, he is caring of the situation and of your fears in facing legal matters , he made us feel comfortable , safe and protected. Surprisingly he never made me feel down on myself for stupid things I created that lead to h...

M.
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