Trusted Representation In Florida Since 1987

Trusted Local Attorneys For Your Criminal Defense

When you face life-altering criminal charges it can be difficult to know where to turn for help protecting your good name and your freedom. You need a criminal defense lawyer who is prepared to take on the prosecution and build the strongest possible defense. The attorneys of Pilka Adams & Reed, P.A. in Brandon, Tampa, and Lakeland are here to get the best possible outcome for you.

We are fierce advocates for our clients throughout Florida and take pride in the attentive, personalized attention we give each client. You can rely on us to provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision about your defense options, providing you with peace of mind as we navigate the criminal justice system on your behalf.

Our Criminal Defense Services

We defend against a wide range of felony and misdemeanor criminal charges, including:

  • Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs
  • Drug crimes, including possession and trafficking
  • Property crimes, such as burglary and robbery
  • Violent crimes such as assault and battery
  • Sex crimes, including sexual assault

There is no such thing as a “minor” crime or a “light” sentence. If you face criminal charges in Florida it is crucial to have a strong defense. Having a criminal conviction on your record can haunt you for the rest of your life, marring your background checks for employment, financial aid, and housing applications. The best way to avoid those collateral consequences is to act now to protect your rights.

Answering Your Questions And Guiding You Through The Process

The criminal justice system is complex and intimidates some attorneys, let alone the accused. The good news is that you do not have to take on your defense alone. You can rely on our attorneys to make sure you understand your rights and all available defense options for protecting your freedom and your reputation from criminal charges.

Unlike larger law firms that may treat you as just another case number, we will take the time to understand your unique needs and goals as we pursue your defense. Your attorney will always be in close contact with you, providing you with the compassionate representation and strong counsel you need during this difficult time.

Being charged with a crime can be overwhelming and intimidating but always remember that the state has the burden of proof. A criminal defender is not required to bring forth proof of innocence.

You may have been charged with one more of the following offenses:

  • Assault
  • Battery
  • Burglary
  • Domestic violence
  • Disorderly conduct
  • DUI
  • DWLSR
  • Violation of probation
  • Possession
  • Stalking

Each of these offenses, along with every other crime in Florida is fully described by a Florida statute. Which includes the elements of each offense.

For example an “assault” is an intentional, unlawful threat by word or by act to do violence to another person coupled with the apparent ability to do so and doing some act which creates a well-founded fear in such other person that such violence is imminent.

Sometimes the Police arrive after an event has taken place and people have cooled down. An officer may arrive with a pre-existing notion that an assault has occurred without knowing whether all elements of the offense can be proven. Assault chargers often arise as the result of two people shouting, swearing and threatening one another. They arrest sometimes on the basis of the statements by witnesses who may be friends or relatives of one of the parties and “on their side” sometimes it’s merely “he said-she said” situation.

The important thing to remember is that merely being charged with a crime does not mean that the defendants will be convicted of the crime.

Another common example is a DUI arrest. To prove a DUI the state must show that the defendant was driving or in actual physical control of an operable motor vehicle while:

  • The driver’s normal faculties are impaired; and or
  • The individuals BAC level is .08 or above

These things may seem obvious on the surface, but are not always easily proven. Sometimes the state cannot prove that a defendant was “driving or in actual physical control” until the defendant makes incriminating statements, or otherwise provides the state with evidence that would have never been discovered until the (often scared) driver voluntarily gives up the evidence.

Whenever you have been charged with criminal offense of any type, you owe it to yourself to contact an attorney.

Speak To A Defense Attorney

It is crucial to begin your defense as soon as possible. Call our Brandon, Tampa, or Lakeland office at 813-502-1097 for a free consultation. We also welcome all inquiries through our contact form.