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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

    "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
    "Awesome Attorney"
    Mrs. Mesic is an upfront professional and Responsive Attorney.
    - Christopher
    "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
    "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
    "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
    "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 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
    "Amazing experience with Esq. Mesic and her staff"
    From DUI charges reduced to reckless driver, highly recommend Attorney Mesic, super impressed by her work ethic, professionalism, motivated to help and has knowledge of the law. She is amazing lawyer and has a wonderful staff. Kate is ith you from the first day till she done with the case. She is the best of the best!
    - Jose

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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