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.
Call our Jacksonville lawyers right away if you are facing any of the following criminal charges:
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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Get Started TodayThe sooner you contact us, the sooner we can start your defense. -
Case ResultsRead through our victories and see the cases that we've handled.
Client Testimonials
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"I am so grateful that Kate has been in our lives at this very, very difficult and dangerous time."I cannot say enough good things about Kate Mesic's professional and personal knowledge of the subject and willingness to pursue all avenues to solve this terrible problem for my family. Not only is she extremely organized and logical in her thinking and her approach, but she is able to motivate and encourage her clients in the most depressing situations, able to help them see exit strategies from overwhelming circumstances, and can somehow enable self-help for the clients. I am so grateful that Kate has been in our lives at this very, very difficult and dangerous time.- Juliette
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"HIGHLY RECOMMEND HER to anyone who is looking for effective solutions."I called Kate late afternoon with a concern over a contract dispute. Kate took time to listen to my concern, asked questions, described my options and developed a comprehensive strategy. The following morning Kate delivered a draft of a document and called to follow up with me. She was highly effective in her work and her efforts produced an immediate result. The matter was settled and resolved within 48 hours of my contact with Kate. HIGHLY RECOMMEND HER to anyone who is looking for effective solutions.- Igor
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"To Thine own self be true, Thy will not mine:"Wow, Wow, Wow. Kate Mesic and her law firm is nothing short of amazing, her presence and professionalism spoke for herself in volumes. I was sited for DUI on 15 Aug 2019, and finalized 20 July 2020 (I know along time, COVID shutdown Mar 20). I was able to maintain my drivers license during the whole process (with exception of one week), waiting as she challenged the DMV (DMV hearing). During the hearing with her systematic and efficient approach with evidence she provided, the DMV found insufficient evidence (DMV was saying second offence, DUI dropped from reckless 2000, I know almost 20 yrs, but that is how the law is written), and I was able to keep my license . During this process with her diligence engaging with the prosecuting attorney (20 July 20), my charges were dropped to reckless driving as well as being able to take an online course to reduce the ticket. Did I mention I lived in a different County? Brevard Thank you so much to Kate and Shirley (her assistant) , for treating me like family and fighting for me and my family. As my drivers license was/is detrimental with my work and assisting in other family matters (I have an Autistic Grandson). Their professionalism during this unpresented time in our country was/ is beyond reproach. They never stopped caring, fighting or believing in me, words of thank you will never be enough. If you are in trouble, distraught or on the other side of the law, Kate Mesic's law firm is whom you would want in your corner. If I could give more than 5 stars I would. Thank you again to you and Ms. Shirley, I could never repay you enough.- Allen H
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"She is proactive and does the best job possible."Kate helped me with both of my cases regarding my DWI and my felony possession, as well as the expungement of the former. She was extremely efficient with the court and the filings for my cases. She worked out the best deal with the prosecutor. She was also so helpful guiding me through the nuances of my cases, along with helping me understand everything that needed to be done to get these filed and closed. Kate is an amazing lawyer, as well as an amazing person. She is proactive and does the best job possible.- Ally
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"If anyone can accomplish the best case scenario for someone seeking legal services, it is her. I highly recommend Ms. Kate Mesic."Kate Mesic is a highly skilled, industrious expert attorney who works hard for her clients. After a referral, I called her and explained my situation, asking her opinion about how to proceed. She listened attentively and was professionally sympathetic while also clearly laying out the options for me. When my husband and I decided to hire her, we quickly learned that she was always at the top of her game, immediately responsive to our needs, and was clear and committed in her decision-making. Ms. Mesic is a pro at handling tough situations and difficult individuals. She dealt easily with our opposing party, smoothly sailing through the challenges he presented. What I found particularly compelling about working with Ms. Mesic was her honest, straightforward approach. She clearly has a fine-tuned knowledge about the workings of the law, and when I asked her advice she would be straightforward with me about potential outcomes. She certainly could have proceeded in ways that would have drawn out the proceedings and ultimately cost us more, but instead she was frank and open about where we should compromise. I appreciated this and believe it resulted in the best possible results in our situation. Ms. Kate Mesic’s expertise and legal ability were evident throughout our time working with her. She is a consummate professional with a hard driving work ethic, and immediately knows how to respond to any legal obstacle in her path. If anyone can accomplish the best case scenario for someone seeking legal services, it is her. I highly recommend Ms. Kate Mesic.- Jennifer
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"Best lawyer in the world"
Miss Mesic is the best lawyer in Jacksonville.
- Carl -
"I could not be more satisfied with the outcome."I consulted & hired Kate to handle a traffic violation and she was able to get the issue resolved in a timely manner. I highly recommend Kate. The first consultation was free and she explained what needed to happen. She set the right expectations and proceeded to represent me in court and got the case dropped. I Could not be more satisfied with the outcome and I'm happy I relied on reviews just like this to hire her! I highly recommend Kate and her staff as they will make sure to communicate in a timely manner and follow up on your case.- Former Client
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"Outstanding service, compassionate staff."I received outstanding service! My worries were eased by the compassionate staff during a very stressful time. My case was handled swiftly and the price was affordable. Highly recommend The Law Offices of Kate Mesic, P.A.- Reshana
What Sets Our Firm Apart
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Excellent Communication & Updates
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Understanding of the Courts & Common Tactics
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Knowledgeable & Comprehensive Legal Advocacy
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A Legacy of Positive Outcomes for Our Clients
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A Wide Range of Professional Legal Experience
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Commitment to Ensuring You Are Treated Fairly