Criminal Defense Is All We Do – Put Over 100 Years Of Combined Experience On Your Side
Attorneys David Parry, Matthew Kindel and Curtis Crider

Dedicated Clearwater Criminal Defense Attorneys

When you’ve been arrested and accused of a crime, you need a legal team that is focused on your needs. Bauer, Crider, Kindel and Parry is solely focused on criminal defense, meaning we’re equipped to give your case the undivided attention and comprehensive understanding it deserves. Our Pasco County criminal attorneys ​​are always on call, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, including nights, weekends and holidays. We offer the attention you need when you need it most.

Independent Investigations And Sophisticated Criminal Defense Strategies

With more than 100 years of combined criminal defense experience in a wide range of criminal defense matters and two board-certified criminal defense lawyers, our criminal attorneys have helped thousands of clients who have been accused of crimes in the state of Florida. We represent clients in both state and federal court who are facing all kinds of criminal charges, including:

Our legal team of criminal defense attorneys thoroughly prepares every case, working with our clients to develop a strategy that is best for their circumstances and conducting an independent investigation whenever necessary. We are dedicated to keeping our client’s best interests at the forefront of everything we do, leading to our successful case results in state, local and federal courts. We open our firm to clients from all walks of life and are not afraid to fight difficult cases.

Criminal Defense Frequently Asked Questions

We know that if you have been arrested, accused of a crime or facing criminal charges, this is a difficult time. We also know that you probably have a lot of questions. Here, our criminal defense lawyers answer some of the more commonly asked questions. For answers to your specific questions, we offer a free initial consultation.

What happens if I get arrested in Florida?

If you have been arrested, you will be taken to jail and booked. After you have been booked, you have to wait, usually in a jail cell. A prosecutor from the State Attorney’s Office will review the police report and determine if they are going to file formal criminal charges. If you hire a criminal defense lawyer, they can help you understand what is happening with your case.

You will have a chance to appear in court for your first appearance, usually within 24 hours of being booked. If you have been formally charged with a crime, your lawyer will have a chance to argue that you should be released on bail or with a bond.

What should I say to the police?

If you have been arrested or if the police are accusing you of a crime, it is important to remain calm. If you have been arrested, you should:

  • Tell the police or law enforcement investigators that you wish to remain silent.
  • Ask for a lawyer and insist that your criminal defense attorney be present during any questions.
  • Do not volunteer any information.

You have the right to remain silent. The police cannot arrest you for refusing to answer their questions. You also have the right to have an attorney present. If you ask for an attorney, the investigators have to stop asking you questions. It is important to remember that anything you say could be used to build a case against you. Do not say anything, even if you think it would be helpful to prove your innocence.

Do I really need a lawyer present before talking to the police?

There is a significant difference between having a casual conversation with the police as a free citizen and talking to them when suspected of a criminal offense. The second that it becomes apparent that you’re a suspect, it is in your best interests to avoid talking to them without a lawyer being present.

If you are detained, police officers must inform you of your Miranda rights. These include your right to remain silent as well as your right to have an attorney present. The Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution also protects you from self-incrimination. Having an attorney present during your interactions with the police protects you from saying anything that could lead to additional legal problems.

What does a criminal defense attorney do?

A criminal defense attorney will protect your legal rights. They are on your side. They can help you address the charges with the aim of reducing the negative consequences on your life.

In some cases, you might not even need to go to trial. If you do go to trial, then your defense attorney will prepare your case in detail. Whatever types of charges you are facing, your defense attorney will be familiar with the law and will be able to apply defense strategies that work best in your circumstances.

Will I go to prison?

The possibility of going to prison will depend on the seriousness of the charges against you. Sentences vary depending on the classification of criminal offense. For instance, some misdemeanors involve no prison time. On the other hand, serious felony offenses involve potentially lengthy prison terms.

You are innocent until proven guilty. Charges, even for serious crimes, do not automatically amount to guilt and jail or prison time. A criminal defense attorney might be able to have the charges dropped against you if a strong legal defense is available. Failing that, they may be able to get your charges reduced or craft a plea agreement so that jail or prison time becomes less likely.

What is the difference between misdemeanor crimes and felony crimes?

In the state of Florida, crimes are classified as misdemeanors or felonies. Usually, misdemeanor crimes are less serious. Nonviolent crimes and traffic violations are usually charged as misdemeanor crimes. Convictions for misdemeanors typically have penalties that are less than one year in jail and less than $1,000 in fines.

Felony charges are more serious. In the state of Florida, there are five classifications of felonies, not including felony drug crimes. The punishment for a conviction of a felony in the third degree can include fines of up to $5,000 and up to five years in prison. A conviction for a felony in the first degree can result in fines of up to $10,000 and up to 30 years in prison. Florida also has crimes that are classified as life felonies, which can result in life imprisonment, and capital felonies, which are punishable by death.

What is an arraignment?

An arraignment is your first formal court appearance after being arrested and charged with a crime. During this proceeding, the charges against you will be read, and you will be asked to enter a plea. You can plead guilty, not guilty, or no contest. Our Bauer, Crider, Kindel and Parry attorneys will be by your side to explain the implications of each plea and help you make an informed decision that is in your best interest.

When is a police search illegal?

A police search may be considered illegal if it violates your Fourth Amendment rights, which protect you against unreasonable searches and seizures. Generally, a search is illegal if it is conducted without a valid search warrant and without probable cause to believe a crime has been committed. There are exceptions to this rule, such as searches conducted during lawful arrests, with consent, or in emergency situations. A skilled defense attorney can scrutinize the details of any search conducted in your case to use any violation of your rights to your advantage in your case.

What is the difference between probation and parole?

Probation and parole are both alternatives to imprisonment but occur at different times in the criminal justice process. Probation is often given in lieu of jail time or in combination with a shortened jail sentence. It allows you to live in your community under court-ordered conditions. Parole, on the other hand, is granted after you have served part of your prison sentence, allowing you to finish your sentence under supervision in the community. Violating the terms of either can result in serious consequences, including reincarceration and additional jail time. It can also potentially void a deal you may have struck with the prosecutor to avoid jail time.

Schedule A Free Consultation With A Criminal Defense Lawyer

Our criminal defense attorneys are available for initial consultation appointments. They offer these initial consultations free of charge. We will protect your constitutional rights and reduce or eliminate potential penalties, such as jail time, when possible. Contact our office by calling 727-275-9822 or sending an email through our online form.