Criminal Defense Attorney Stuart

Florida’s legal system can be overwhelming. Questioning from both law enforcement and the prosecution can be brutal. There may be other legal options available to you without your knowledge. Anyone who has been criminally charged has the right to gain legal representation. Hiring the best Stuart criminal defense attorney can ensure your rights and everything you’ve worked for are protected.

This is not the time to be idle. A criminal conviction may be life-altering. Depending on the circumstances you may find yourself drowning in fines, serving probation time, or even potential incarceration. In addition to this, the negative social stigma of having a criminal record can be harmful to your everyday life.

Do not wait another moment to protect your rights. Contact an experienced criminal defense attorney for trusted legal representation today.

Criminal Defense Attorneys in St. Lucie County, Florida

If you or someone you know has been charged with a criminal offense on the Treasure Coast, it is in your best interest to contact a criminal defense attorney. A skilled attorney can file motions, suppress evidence, and uncover any pretrial or diversion programs available to you.

The attorneys at Meltzer & Bell have a focus on criminal defense in the St. Lucie County and Martin County area. We are always up to date on innovative defenses that win cases. Our attorneys will address all aspects of your case. We will outline all direct and indirect consequences that may arise from criminal allegations.

Find a Stuart criminal defense attorney who will consult with you every step of the way. Meltzer & Bell defends those accused of a criminal offense throughout the greater St. Lucie County and Martin County area including Port St. Lucie, Stuart, Fort Pierce, Vero Beach and Jupiter Island.

Take the first step to your defense today. Call (772) 291-2534 today for a free consultation surrounding your case.

Overview for Criminal Defense in Florida


Common Criminal Offenses in the 19th Judicial Circuit of Florida

Florida Statutes lists out legislation that is not to be violated under the law. If a person violates any of these statutes, he or she is committing an illegal offense. A criminal offense can range from minor crimes to serious felony charges.

The following are some offenses under Florida law:


Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent

criminal defense attorney Stuart

The most important step you can take if you are arrested is to remain silent. You have a legal right to gain legal representation and not submit to any questioning by law enforcement. Any statements made during your arrest or detention may be used against you in court.

With the aid of an attorney, you can invoke your rights under the 5th and 6th Amendments. This means that the attorney can handle any questioning from law enforcement. Additionally, gaining legal representation will deter police officers from coming to your door with interrogations.

Do not speak to law enforcement alone. An attorney is often in the best position to explain your circumstances to any police officers. If you are being investigated, an attorney can help you surrender under terms that may speed up your release. Furthermore, an attorney can contact the prosecutor to discuss lowering bonds.


Pre-Trial Motions in St. Lucie County, Florida

One of the most important steps for a sturdy defense is filing pre-trial motions. A pre-trial motion is a tool used to set boundaries for a criminal trial. Certain evidence should be kept out of the trial. Certain persons must testify while some cannot testify. It may be that case should be entirely dismissed. An experienced attorney can file any of the above motions and more if they are available options to help your case.

Filing a successful pre-trial motion can change a case’s outcome drastically. If you obtain trusted legal representation, your attorney can advocate the suppression of any incriminating evidence.

The following are types of pre-trial motions that can assist your defense:

  • Summary Judgment – States that the facts of the case are not in dispute, so the court orders a judgment without a full trial.
  • Motion for the Release of Evidence – If the prosecution holds important evidence that may be important to the defense, a pre-trial motion can request to release this information to the defense.
  • Motion to Dismiss – Statement that the case should be dismissed due to lack of jurisdiction, lack of evidence, settlement before trial, or other reasons.
  • Motion to Change Venue –A motion to change venue is to change court locations in case the jury pool is prejudiced against the alleged offender.
  • Exclusion of Witness Testimony – Statement that there is a conflict of interests, the witness could be unreliable, lack of competency, and other reasons.
  • Exclusion of Physical Evidence – Motion to suppress evidence that was obtained illegally or beyond the scope of a search warrant.

Out of State Visitor Charged with Crimes in Florida


Have you been charged with a crime and you are not a Florida resident? It is common for those visiting Florida to get charged with a criminal offense. This is especially true for those charged for driving under the influence (DUI).

Florida courts do not care if you are not living in the state. You are still required to attend your court hearings and dates. This can lead to a boatload in not only legal fees but also travel costs. Hiring a skilled attorney can assist with that.

Your attorney may be able to resolve your case without the need for you to return to Florida. The court may allow you to waive your appearance at many, and sometimes all, your pre-trial court dates. This can save you a tremendous amount of money and time.


Additional Resources


19th Judicial Circuit of Florida – Visit the official website for the 19th Judicial Circuit of Florida. Find more information regarding the court administration, judges, magistrates, pre-trial programs, and services offered by the court.

Standard Jury Instructions – Visit the official website for the Florida Supreme Court. Gain access to Florida’s Standard Jury Instructions for Criminal Cases. Here you can read the documents that are used by a grand jury to determine a verdict. Find more information on what the jury is looking for, the definitions for legal terms, and the admissible defenses in court.


Stuart FL Lawyers for Criminal Defense in Florida

If you have been charged with a crime, there is no time to be idle. It is crucial that you hire a strategic criminal defense attorney immediately. An attorney can file pre-trial motions, uncover court programs, and appear for you in court. There is no reason to face these charges alone. Find trusted legal representation with Meltzer & Bell.

The attorneys at Meltzer & Bell have over 20 years of collective experience in Florida’s criminal courtroom. Our team has both a former prosecutor and a former public defender. We have the insight and knowledge that is needed to gain favorable results for our clients. Do not hesitate when it comes to your future. Contact the attorneys at Meltzer & Bell today.

Meltzer & Bell practices law throughout the 19th Judicial Circuit of Florida including Fort Pierce, Stuart, Port St. Lucie, Palm City, and Jupiter Island.

Dial today at (772) 291-2534, or simply submit an online contact form for a free consultation for your case today.


This article was last updated April 5, 2021.