Aggressive defense strategies backed by courtroom experience on both sides of the aisle. We fight for dismissals, reduced charges, and acquittals.
Facing DUI charges in Sarasota, Manatee, or DeSoto County? Our attorneys have handled hundreds of DUI cases and know how to challenge every element of the state's case — from the initial traffic stop to the breath test results.
A DUI arrest in Florida can be overwhelming, but a charge is not a conviction. The Speyer Group's DUI defense attorneys examine every detail of your case, including whether law enforcement had reasonable suspicion to pull you over, whether field sobriety exercises were administered properly, whether the Intoxilyzer 8000 breathalyzer was properly maintained and calibrated, and whether your constitutional rights were respected throughout the process.
Partner Michael Berg, author of the Florida DUI Defense Playbook, brings a comprehensive understanding of Florida DUI law and the technical defenses available to fight these charges effectively.
First offense: Up to 6 months jail, $500–$1,000 fine, 180-day to 1-year license revocation, 50 hours community service, DUI school, 10-day vehicle impoundment, up to 12 months probation.
Second offense: Up to 9 months jail (mandatory 10 days if within 5 years), $1,000–$2,000 fine, up to 5-year license revocation, mandatory ignition interlock device.
Third offense (within 10 years): Third-degree felony. Up to 5 years prison, mandatory 30-day jail, $2,000–$5,000 fine, 10-year license revocation.
Every DUI case is different, and cookie-cutter defense approaches don't work. Our attorneys analyze the specific facts of your case to build a tailored defense, which may include:
If you've been charged with a DUI in Sarasota County, Manatee County, or DeSoto County, time is critical. Evidence can be lost, and important deadlines — like the 10-day window to request a formal review hearing to challenge your license suspension — will not wait. Contact The Speyer Group today for a free consultation.
From misdemeanor charges to serious felonies, The Speyer Group provides aggressive criminal defense representation throughout the 12th Judicial Circuit. Our attorneys bring experience from both sides of the courtroom — as former prosecutors and public defenders — to build the strongest possible defense for every client.
When you face criminal charges in Southwest Florida, the stakes couldn't be higher. A conviction can mean jail time, a permanent criminal record, loss of employment, damage to your reputation, and consequences that follow you for years. The Speyer Group understands what's at stake and fights relentlessly to protect your rights, your freedom, and your future.
Our criminal defense attorneys practice daily in the courthouses of Sarasota, Manatee, DeSoto, Charlotte, and Hillsborough counties. We know the judges, the prosecutors, and the procedures specific to each court — and we use that knowledge to our clients' advantage.
The Speyer Group takes a thorough, strategic approach to every criminal case. This includes conducting an independent investigation into the facts, reviewing all discovery materials and police reports for errors and inconsistencies, filing pretrial motions to suppress improperly obtained evidence, negotiating with prosecutors from a position of strength, and preparing every case as if it's going to trial — because that preparation is what produces the best outcomes, whether at trial or through negotiation.
Have you been arrested or are you under investigation in Sarasota, Manatee, or DeSoto County? Don't wait to get legal help. Contact The Speyer Group for a free, confidential consultation with an experienced criminal defense attorney.
Drug charges in Florida carry severe penalties, including mandatory minimum sentences for certain offenses. Whether you're facing a simple possession charge or allegations of trafficking, The Speyer Group fights aggressively to protect your rights and your future.
Florida's drug laws are among the toughest in the country. Even possession of a small amount of certain controlled substances can result in felony charges, and trafficking thresholds are based on weight — meaning you can face trafficking charges without any evidence that you actually sold or distributed drugs. Our attorneys understand the complexities of Florida drug law and build defense strategies that challenge the state's evidence at every turn.
Possession of a controlled substance (3rd degree felony): Up to 5 years in prison, $5,000 fine, driver's license suspension.
Trafficking in cocaine (28+ grams): Mandatory minimum 3 years in prison, $50,000 fine. Penalties increase significantly with quantity.
Trafficking in fentanyl (4+ grams): Mandatory minimum 3 years in prison, $50,000 fine.
If you're facing drug charges in Sarasota, Manatee, or DeSoto County, early legal intervention can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Contact The Speyer Group today for a free consultation.
Domestic violence charges in Florida carry unique consequences beyond the criminal penalties, including mandatory arrest policies, no-contact orders, and permanent impacts on your record. The Speyer Group provides experienced, discreet defense for clients facing these serious allegations.
Under Florida law, domestic violence cases are treated differently than other criminal matters. Officers responding to a domestic call are required to make an arrest if they find probable cause that domestic violence occurred. This means people are often arrested based on one-sided accounts, in emotionally charged situations, before the full picture is known. Our attorneys understand these dynamics and work to ensure our clients' side of the story is heard.
Beyond jail time and fines, a domestic violence conviction in Florida results in a mandatory 26-week batterer's intervention program, a permanent criminal record that cannot be sealed or expunged, potential loss of firearm rights under federal law, and possible impact on child custody proceedings. These are stakes that require experienced legal defense.
If you've been arrested for domestic violence in Sarasota, Manatee, or DeSoto County, contact The Speyer Group immediately. We are available 24/7 and can begin working on your defense right away.
Assault and battery charges in Florida range from first-degree misdemeanors to first-degree felonies depending on the circumstances. The Speyer Group defends clients facing all levels of assault and battery charges throughout Sarasota, Manatee, DeSoto, Charlotte, and Hillsborough counties.
Florida law distinguishes between assault (the threat of violence) and battery (actual physical contact). Both carry serious penalties, and aggravating factors — such as the use of a weapon, the severity of injury, or the victim's status as a law enforcement officer — can elevate charges significantly. Our attorneys examine the facts of each case to identify the strongest defense, whether that involves self-defense claims, disputing the alleged victim's account, or challenging the state's evidence.
If you're facing assault or battery charges, contact The Speyer Group for a free consultation with a criminal defense attorney who will fight for your rights.
Theft and burglary charges in Florida can range from petit theft misdemeanors to first-degree felony burglary. Regardless of the level of charge, a conviction creates a permanent record that labels you as dishonest — with lasting consequences for employment, housing, and your reputation.
Petit theft (under $100): 2nd degree misdemeanor — up to 60 days jail, $500 fine.
Petit theft ($100–$750): 1st degree misdemeanor — up to 1 year jail, $1,000 fine.
Grand theft ($750–$20,000): 3rd degree felony — up to 5 years prison, $5,000 fine.
Burglary of a dwelling: 2nd degree felony — up to 15 years prison, $10,000 fine. If armed or involving assault, 1st degree felony — up to life in prison.
Don't let a theft charge define your future. Contact The Speyer Group for aggressive defense representation in Sarasota, Manatee, DeSoto, Charlotte, and Hillsborough counties.
A traffic ticket might seem minor, but points on your license add up quickly — leading to higher insurance rates, license suspension, and even job loss for commercial drivers. The Speyer Group fights traffic violations of all kinds to protect your driving record and your livelihood.
Florida uses a point system for traffic violations. Accumulating 12 points in 12 months results in a 30-day license suspension. Accumulating 18 points in 18 months results in a 3-month suspension. Beyond points, certain violations like reckless driving are criminal offenses carrying jail time. And for CDL holders, a single serious violation can threaten your career.
Our attorneys appear in traffic court on your behalf — in most cases, you don't need to take time off work or appear in court yourself. We challenge the officer's observations, radar and laser calibration records, and procedural compliance to get tickets dismissed or reduced to non-moving violations that carry no points.
Got a traffic ticket in Sarasota County, Manatee County, or DeSoto County? Contact The Speyer Group before you pay the fine — paying the ticket is an admission of guilt that adds points to your record.
A probation violation in Florida can result in the court imposing the maximum sentence for your original charge — even for minor or technical violations. If you've been accused of violating your probation, you need an attorney who understands how to defend these hearings.
Probation violations in Florida are handled differently than new criminal charges. The standard of proof is lower — preponderance of the evidence rather than beyond a reasonable doubt — and you do not have the right to a jury trial. The judge has broad discretion, which makes having an experienced attorney advocating on your behalf critically important.
Depending on the circumstances, our attorneys may be able to achieve reinstatement of probation on the same terms, reinstatement with modified conditions, a reduced sentence, or even dismissal of the violation allegation. We present mitigating evidence, challenge the state's proof of the alleged violation, and advocate for the most favorable outcome possible.
If you've received a probation violation warrant or notice in Sarasota, Manatee, or DeSoto County, contact The Speyer Group immediately. Early intervention can make the difference between continued probation and incarceration.
Common questions about criminal defense in Sarasota, Manatee, DeSoto, Charlotte, and Hillsborough Counties
If you are arrested in Sarasota County, exercise your right to remain silent and request an attorney immediately. Do not answer questions or make statements to law enforcement without legal representation. Contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible — evidence can disappear and witnesses forget, so early legal intervention is critical to building a strong defense.
A first-time DUI conviction in Florida carries penalties including up to 6 months in jail (up to 9 months with a BAC of .15 or higher), fines between $500 and $1,000, license revocation for 180 days to 1 year, 50 hours of community service, completion of DUI school, up to 12 months of probation, and a 10-day vehicle impoundment. An experienced DUI defense attorney can challenge the evidence and fight to reduce or dismiss these charges.
The cost of a criminal defense attorney in Sarasota varies depending on the complexity and severity of the charges. The Speyer Group offers free initial consultations and flexible payment plans to ensure quality legal representation is accessible. Contact us to discuss your case and learn about your options.
Yes, DUI charges can be dismissed or reduced in Florida. Common defense strategies include challenging the legality of the traffic stop, questioning the accuracy of breathalyzer or field sobriety tests, identifying procedural errors by law enforcement, and challenging the chain of custody for blood test results. An experienced DUI defense attorney will review every aspect of your case to identify the strongest defense.
While traffic tickets may seem minor, the consequences can be significant — including points on your license, insurance rate increases, license suspension, and even jail time for serious violations. A traffic violation attorney can often get tickets dismissed or reduced, saving you money and protecting your driving record.
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