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Criminal Defense

Criminal Lawyer in Jacksonville, FL

Preferred Florida Defense Attorneys

When you’ve been arrested, accused, or are under investigation for a criminal matter, you must trust a firm that will handle your case with nonjudgmental and compassionate representation. We proudly serve clients throughout Duval, St. Johns, Nassau, Putnam, and Clay Counties, as well as in Jacksonville Beach and Atlantic Beach, taking each case seriously.

Contact our trusted criminal defense lawyer in Jacksonville at (904) 615-8950 to schedule a confidential consultation.

Now Is Not the Time to Take a Risk or Go in Alone.

From the moment you are arrested, you are vulnerable to being stuck with serious consequences, whether or not you actually committed the crime in question.

The painful consequences of criminal charges and accusations vary based on the crime, but generally include:

  • Thousands of dollars in fines
  • Years in jail or prison
  • Job loss
  • Reduced employment opportunities
  • Loss of professional licenses
  • Threats to your parental rights or status as a custodial parent
  • Losing your immigration status
  • Increased insurance premiums (for DUI and traffic violations)

These are just a few of the consequences you could face if you are charged with and convicted of a crime. You can’t afford to go alone, and you can’t afford not to get in touch with a Jacksonville criminal defense attorney immediately.

Having a skilled legal advocate early in the process can make a difference in how your case is investigated, what evidence is presented, and what options are available to you in court. A local criminal attorney who regularly appears in Duval County court, at the Duval County Jail first appearance hearings, and in nearby St. Johns and Clay County courts will understand how prosecutors typically handle different charges and what alternatives may be available to resolve your case.

Why Choose Us?

Our lead attorney, Kate Mesic, is a former prosecutor who has tried many cases. She has been in the local legal community for decades and is familiar with various judges and prosecutors. We know how the system works and can provide you with a realistic assessment of the case and how to proceed.

Our criminal defense lawyers in Jacksonville aim to provide excellent customer service, which is why we provide thorough, timely communication. If you call us and we miss your call, we will return your call the same day.

Because we take a hands-on approach to every file, we carefully review police reports, body camera footage, and any available witness statements before advising you on your options. As a Jacksonville criminal defense lawyer team that knows the local procedures in the Duval County Courthouse and surrounding county courthouses, we can walk you through what to expect at arraignment, pretrial conferences, and any hearings so that you are never surprised by the process.

What To Expect in Your Criminal Case

When you first contact our office, we begin by gathering basic information about your charges, your background, and where your case is pending, such as the Duval County Courthouse or the county courthouse in Clay or Nassau County. We then review any paperwork you received, including the arrest report and court date notice, so we can explain the immediate next steps and important deadlines. Our goal is to replace uncertainty with a clear plan so you understand how a criminal defense attorney Jacksonville residents trust will guide you from the first appearance through potential resolution.

As your case moves forward, we will investigate the facts, request discovery from the State Attorney’s Office, and evaluate whether there are legal issues that could support a motion to suppress evidence or reduce the charges. We keep you informed about plea offers, diversion or rehabilitation programs, and the possible consequences of going to trial so that you can make informed choices at every stage. Throughout this process, we remain focused on your long-term future in Jacksonville and the surrounding communities, not just the short-term outcome of a single court date.

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Client Testimonials

    "Excellent service, no hassle, very nice."

    Excellent service, no hassle, very nice. Everything you would want. I was very pleased.

    Thanks so much!

    - James H
    "Kate and her team will get it done"
    Kate has helped me with a couple issues for my business - very timely and professional and competitively priced. You can trust her for sure. I also used her for a personal legal issue and I am so happy I did!!! She is a gift to Jacksonville, FL for sure!!
    - Vicky Zelen
    "If your looking for legal representation, you cannot do any better."
    I had a lot of concerns when I got into an accident in a construction zone and was charged with leaving the scene of an accident when no other cars we're involved. Mrs. Mesic was able to fight hard and made sure I got a favorable outcome, as well as always keeping me informed through the whole process. Even during the initial consultation it was clear that she was always going to have your best interest at heart. If your looking for legal representation, you cannot do any better.
    - Jason
    "As my lawyer, she was very encouraging and kept great communication as she made herself available to contact for questions, updates, etc."
    From the start, she was honest and quite informational about my case, how she can help, and my options. Unlike other offices I had contacted, she did not come across as a sales person. She was very quick to gather information and thoroughly answer all my questions, as well as clearly explain the legal process I was to undergo, which was exactly what I needed in my emotionally disheveled state. As my lawyer, she was very encouraging and kept great communication as she made herself available to contact for questions, updates, etc. Initially, I was clearly informed how payment was for services rendered, not for the result of the case, though my case ended with the best possible outcome. I am very appreciative of all her hard work and effort in my case and I would gladly work with her again and recommend her services to anyone in need of them.
    - David
    "Job well done in a expedited and professional way"
    Kate did an excellent job for me. Very well prepared and a accomplished the impossible
    - Excellent
    "One of the best"
    She was there every step of the way with any questions I may have had and pushed for my case to be dropped and believed in me.
    - Former Client
    "Need assistance, call Mr. Gilewicz. Look no further."
    If you need help do not hesitate to call Mr. Gilewicz.
    - Kathy
    "She is expert and she is not a stranger to hard work."
    Kate was very good at explaining the process and replying to any questions at any time. She is expert and she is not a stranger to hard work. I highly recommend her and her team.
    - Brad

What Sets Our Firm Apart

  • Excellent Communication & Updates
  • Understanding of the Courts & Common Tactics
  • Knowledgeable & Comprehensive Legal Advocacy
  • A Legacy of Positive Outcomes for Our Clients
  • A Wide Range of Professional Legal Experience
  • Commitment to Ensuring You Are Treated Fairly

Contact Us Today

We’re Ready to Help

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