Aggressive criminal defense representation for residents and visitors in Anna Maria Island. Free consultations available 24/7.
If you've been arrested or charged with a crime in Anna Maria Island, you need an attorney who knows the local courts, the local law enforcement practices, and how to build the strongest defense for your specific situation. The Speyer Group provides aggressive criminal defense representation for clients throughout Anna Maria Island and Manatee County.
Anna Maria Island is a seven-mile barrier island in Manatee County that is home to three separate municipalities — Anna Maria, Holmes Beach, and Bradenton Beach — each with its own police department. This is unusual for such a small area and means law enforcement presence is heavy relative to the island's size. The island is a major tourist destination, and the combination of visitors, beach culture, and alcohol leads to a high rate of DUI, disorderly conduct, open container, and assault arrests, particularly during peak season and holiday weekends.
Criminal cases in Anna Maria Island typically involve the Holmes Beach Police Department, Anna Maria Police Department, Bradenton Beach Police Department, and the Manatee County Sheriff's Office. Our attorneys are familiar with how these agencies operate, how their officers conduct investigations and make arrests, and where their procedures can be challenged. All cases from Anna Maria Island are heard at the Manatee County Judicial Center at 1115 Manatee Avenue West in Bradenton.
Anna Maria Island has a disproportionately high number of DUI arrests for its size. The island's three police departments and the Manatee County Sheriff all patrol the main roads, and Manatee Avenue — the only bridge route on and off the island — is a common DUI enforcement point. Police are particularly active on weekend nights and during events like the Bradenton Beach Pier concerts. Many island DUI arrests involve tourists who may not return to Florida for their court dates, making experienced local representation even more important.
Partner Michael Berg, author of the Florida DUI Defense Playbook, brings comprehensive knowledge of Florida DUI law and the technical defenses available to fight these charges — from challenging the legality of the traffic stop to questioning the accuracy of the Intoxilyzer 8000 breath test. Learn more about our DUI defense strategies.
Many Anna Maria Island arrests involve out-of-state tourists or seasonal residents who are unfamiliar with the Florida criminal justice system. If you were arrested on Anna Maria Island, your case will be heard at the Manatee County Judicial Center in Bradenton. The Speyer Group handles island cases regularly and can often appear in court on your behalf, minimizing the disruption to your life — whether you live on the island full-time or were visiting when the arrest occurred. Common island charges include DUI, open container violations, disorderly conduct, bar fights, drug possession, and trespassing.
Courthouse: Manatee County Judicial Center at 1115 Manatee Avenue West in Bradenton
Circuit: 12th Judicial Circuit of Florida
Common enforcement areas: Manatee Avenue (SR-64, the main bridge access), Gulf Drive, Marina Drive, and Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach
Communities served: the city of Anna Maria, Holmes Beach, Bradenton Beach, Coquina Beach, and Bean Point
The Speyer Group's attorneys bring experience from both sides of the courtroom — as former prosecutors and public defenders — and practice daily in the courts of the 12th Judicial Circuit. We know the judges, the prosecutors, and the court procedures that affect your case. Our office is located at 2033 Main Street in downtown Sarasota, and we are available 24/7 for emergency calls.
If you've been arrested or are under investigation in Anna Maria Island, don't wait to get legal help. Evidence can be lost and critical deadlines can pass. Contact The Speyer Group today for a free, confidential consultation, or call us right now at (941) 929-4825.
Get experienced criminal defense attorneys on your side. Free consultations available 24/7.
Schedule Free ConsultationOr call us now at (941) 929-4825