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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

    "I am extremely happy with the outcome & will always recommend her to people."
    I found Kate through a friend who had used her in the past. As the alleged "victim" of a criminal case, she took my requests very seriously and helped ensure I got the outcome I wanted vs. what the state wanted to happen. She understood my concerns and protected me in the court from being asked any questions. She had everything dismissed and resolved in less than a week. I am extremely happy with the outcome and will always recommend her to people.
    - Former Client
    "Great lawyer"
    Great service and very professional.
    - Ashley
    "We would like to thank you so much for getting us through our stressful situation."
    We would highly recommend Kate Mesic if you need a lawyer. She is a true professional and very knowledgeable . We appreciate your help so much. Her assistant, Ellen, was fabulous in the courtroom that day. We would like to thank you so much for getting us through our stressful situation. Deborah and Tom
    - Deborah and Tom Mahoney
    "Determined"
    Good defense lawyer and will fight for you all the way to the end!
    - Amanda
    "Ms. Mesic was fantastic to work with."
    Her knowledge of the law and experience were key to a successful outcome
    - Ari
    "She saved me $10,000."
    I was passed Attorney Mesic's name by a mutual business colleague. I was involved in a dispute with three brothers who owned the property I rented and who, unbeknownst to me had been feuding between themselves primarily over this property for years. In addition to her expertness at negotiating the legal landscape, she used her terrific interpersonal skills and her ability to work collaboratively with opposing counsel in a difficult situation to resolve this matter. What I most appreciated was that she recognized that I just didn't want to deal with these jokers or their agent anymore and so she completely took it over, while keeping me informed. I think she saved me $10,000.
    - Larry
    "She was very compassionate and she came up with a game plan right away!"
    My daughter and I hired Mrs. Mesic for my son. He had prior drug arrests, a DUI, and several violation of probation. He was facing maximum time of 8 years and at the age of 21! She was very compassionate and she came up with a game plan right away! She stayed in constant contact with myself and my daughter via phone and email. Her staff was very quick with response to keep us updated on court dates, etc. she ultimately got his time reduced to 8 months, and kept him out of prison! I am forever thankful for what she has done, and I highly recommend her!
    - Teresa
    "With proficiency and skill she pursued our interests with great results We highly recommend Ms. Mesic."
    We recently had an issue with a contractor/business that did not perform their work to the expectation to which they had agreed. We contacted Kate Mesic, Esq. who was very understanding of our dilemma and was quite willing to work with us. She did recover from the contractor the funds required to correct the poor work. Ms. Mesic was very understanding of our concerns, gave us a frank and honest opinion of the various outcomes, and represented us in the most professional and honest way. With proficiency and skill she pursued our interests with great results We highly recommend Ms. Mesic.
    - Former Client

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

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