Criminal Defense Attorney Florida | Juan Cordero
Criminal Defense Lawyer
Criminal Defense Attorney
Facing criminal charges is serious. Our experienced defense attorneys protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome.
Aggressive Defense. Proven Results.
A criminal charge can have life-altering consequences — loss of freedom, employment, reputation, professional licenses, and more. You need an experienced criminal defense attorney who will fight aggressively to protect your rights from the moment of arrest through trial.
Attorney Juan J. Cordero has represented numerous clients in criminal defense matters throughout his 26+ year career, including elected officials and public figures in notable cases. He understands the criminal justice system and knows how to build a strong defense.
We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you or a loved one has been arrested, call us immediately at 305.525.8957.
Your Constitutional Rights
- Right to remain silent — do not answer police questions
- Right to an attorney — invoke this immediately
- Right against unreasonable search — do not consent to searches
- Presumption of innocence — the state must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt
Cases We Handle
Felony vs. Misdemeanor in Florida
Misdemeanor
- Up to 1 year county jail
- Fines up to $1,000
- Probation possible
- No loss of voting rights
Felony
- 1+ years state prison
- Fines up to $10,000+
- Loss of voting rights
- Loss of firearm rights
Florida Criminal Statutes of Limitations
The state has a limited window to file criminal charges. If you were investigated but not yet charged, these deadlines may protect you.
Charge Type
Filing Deadline
Florida Statute
Misdemeanor (2nd degree)
1 year
§775.082
Misdemeanor (1st degree)
2 years
§775.082
Felony (3rd degree)
3 years
§775.082
Felony (2nd degree)
3 years
§775.082
Felony (1st degree)
4 years
§775.082
Capital / Life felony
No limit
§775.082
Note: These deadlines apply to when the state files charges. If you have already been arrested, the state may proceed regardless of these limits. Consult an attorney immediately.
Florida Criminal Law: What You Need to Know
Understanding how Florida's criminal justice system works helps you make informed decisions about your defense.
Speedy Trial Rights
Florida Rule of Criminal Procedure 3.191 gives you the right to trial within 90 days for misdemeanors and 175 days for felonies from arrest. If the state is not ready, charges may be dismissed. Your attorney can strategically waive or invoke this right depending on your case.
Stand Your Ground
Florida Statute §776.012 provides a Stand Your Ground defense — you have no duty to retreat before using force if you reasonably believe it is necessary to prevent death or great bodily harm. This defense can result in immunity from prosecution if established at a pre-trial hearing.
Mandatory Minimums
Florida's 10-20-Life law (§775.087) imposes mandatory minimum sentences for crimes committed with firearms: 10 years for possession, 20 years for discharge, 25-to-life for injury or death. Drug trafficking also carries mandatory minimums. An experienced attorney may challenge the charge itself to avoid these harsh sentences.
The Florida Criminal Defense Process
From arrest to resolution — here is what happens and how we defend you at every stage.
Arrest & Booking
You are taken into custody, fingerprinted, and formally charged. Invoke your right to remain silent immediately. Do not answer any questions without your attorney present.
First Appearance / Bond Hearing
Within 24 hours of arrest, a judge sets bail. We appear at this hearing to argue for the lowest possible bond or your release on your own recognizance.
Arraignment
You enter a formal plea (not guilty, guilty, or no contest). We almost always enter a not guilty plea at arraignment to preserve all options and allow time to review evidence.
Pre-Trial Motions & Discovery
We review all evidence, file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence, challenge probable cause, and negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or dismissal.
Plea Negotiation or Trial
If the prosecution's evidence is weak or tainted, we may secure a dismissal or favorable plea. If we proceed to trial, we present the strongest possible defense before a judge or jury.
Injured? Call Now for a Free Consultation.
Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We come to you — home, hospital, or our offices.