Criminal Defense

Criminal Defense Attorney in Tampa, FL

Fierce Advocacy for Clients in Hillsborough, Pinellas & Pasco Counties

When facing criminal accusations, an investigation, or formal charges, every aspect of your life can change, from your reputation to your freedom and future. You may face jail or prison time, significant fines, extended probation, and a direct impact on your job, career, family, and future opportunities.
At The Law Offices of Nicole Sanchez, we offer expert and experienced representation during this critical time. Led by Board-Certified Criminal Trial Attorney Nicole Sanchez, we deliver aggressive, strategic, and personalized defense for clients in Tampa and surrounding areas.
With an office located in the heart of downtown Tampa, just minutes from the Hillsborough County Courthouse and major highways, our firm offers accessible support for clients throughout Tampa Bay. We meet clients by phone, virtual appointment, or in our office to begin building a strong defense as early as possible. Our team understands how local court procedures, judges, and prosecuting attorneys influence each case, enabling us to provide tailored legal strategies that match the realities of Tampa’s unique legal landscape.
We routinely defend individuals from all walks of life, including the following:
  • working professionals
  • college students
  • military service members stationed at MacDill Air Force Base
No matter your background or the specifics of your case, we deliver legal help that reflects our local knowledge and unwavering commitment to protecting your rights in the community.
Book a free initial consultation with our criminal attorney about your case. Call us at (813) 531-8999 or contact us online. Hablamos español. Available 24/7.

The Criminal Justice Process in Tampa

Grasping the flow of criminal cases in Tampa's courts helps you stay informed about upcoming proceedings.
After an arrest, you may attend a first appearance in the Hillsborough County Courthouse, where a judge decides on bail and explains charges. The law ensures you have the right to counsel at this stage, and timely legal advice can immediately impact your defense options and pretrial release.
Next, prosecutors review the evidence and decide whether to file formal charges. Local state attorneys work closely with law enforcement agencies in Tampa and surrounding counties, drawing on their knowledge of area judges and typical community standards.
Once charges are filed, most cases proceed to arraignment, pretrial conferences, and, if necessary, trial. During this time, our team actively communicates with clients about upcoming hearings, deadlines, and any developments. If you receive notice of an investigation or pending charges, acting quickly can help you avoid costly missteps in the early stages of the process.
We guide clients through every step so they know what to expect inside courtrooms and how local procedure or custom may influence their path forward.
  • Unyielding Commitment to Justice
    We are dedicated to defending the constitutional rights of the accused, ensuring every client receives a fair trial and that justice is never compromised.
  • Strategic and Fearless Advocacy
    We approach each case with fearless determination and strategic precision, relentlessly challenging injustices and standing up to power imbalances in the legal system.
  • Comprehensive Legal Expertise
    With extensive experience across a wide range of serious criminal cases—from homicide and sex crimes to federal appeals—we bring a deep and nuanced understanding of the law to every case we handle.
  • Culturally Attuned Representation
    We recognize the importance of culturally competent representation. By offering services in both English and Spanish, we ensure our clients feel heard, respected, and understood at every step.
  • Recognition of Excellence
    Our consistent recognition by Super Lawyers as “Rising Stars” from 2021 through 2025 reflects our ongoing commitment to excellence, integrity, and results-driven representation.

Our Services

Your Fight Is Our Fight

The Law Offices of Nicole Sanchez stands with you from arrest through appeal. Our firm is fluent in Spanish and English and proudly serves a diverse client base with culturally competent and accessible legal counsel. We remain available 24/7 because legal emergencies do not wait for business hours.

Facing criminal charges can cause enormous stress, but proactive legal assistance can make a meaningful difference in your options and outcomes. Waiting to seek help often limits available defense strategies. That's why we encourage individuals and families to reach out early, as timely legal intervention can preserve critical evidence, prepare you for court hearings, and help you understand the steps ahead in the criminal process.

Our legal team works closely with clients to do the following so you feel supported at every turn:

  • Answer urgent questions
  • Explain Florida's laws
  • Guide you through the process

From arraignment to pre-trial hearings and post-conviction relief, we remain focused on fighting for your rights at all stages.

Common Criminal Charges in TampA

Residents of Tampa and the surrounding area may face a wide range of criminal allegations, each carrying its own set of legal risks and consequences. State prosecutors in Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco counties frequently pursue charges for the following:

  • DUI
  • Drug possession
  • Theft
  • Assault
  • Battery
  • White-collar offenses

Florida’s unique sentencing laws, such as the state’s minimum mandatory penalties and enhancement statutes, can impact the outcome of criminal matters in meaningful ways. Individuals charged with violent crimes or repeat offenses in the Tampa area often see their cases handled with particular scrutiny due to local public safety concerns and court policies.

Our firm draws on years of experience to explain the potential penalties, including the following:

  • Possible imprisonment
  • Fines
  • Probation
  • Collateral consequences (like loss of professional licenses or driving privileges)

We help clients understand the specific factors at play in their cases, such as aggravating circumstances, prior convictions, or the use of weapons. Because local courts focus closely on case facts and individual backgrounds, a tailored defense approach that fits the local climate can make a crucial difference. We take the time to investigate details that matter under Florida law, such as how evidence was obtained or whether procedures were lawfully followed during your arrest.

No two criminal cases unfold in the same way, making it important to work with a team that understands Tampa’s legal environment. As community standards and court priorities shift, we stay current with how new policies or enforcement trends influence the prosecution of criminal charges in the region. We believe this attention to detail is critical for presenting the strongest case possible, whether you are facing a first offense or a serious felony charge.

If you face criminal charges, acting quickly gives you more options and a stronger potential defense.

Call (813) 531-8999 or connect with us online to discuss your case with a Tampa criminal defense attorney. Learn more about how we can help and your criminal defense options.

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Hear From Our Happy Clients

At The Law Offices of Nicole Sanchez, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.

    “The Best Lawyer!”
    “Nicole Sanchez is the hands down the best lawyer you can obtain in Tampa and it’s surrounding areas!”
    - Joshua F.
    “Highly Recommend!”
    “I've had the pleasure of working with Ms. Sanchez for the past ten years, and she is one of the finest attorneys I know.”
    - Jeff B.
    “Extremely Professional!”
    “If you're in need of top-tier criminal defense, Nicole Sanchez is the attorney you want in your corner. Her professionalism, courtroom skill, and commitment to her clients are unmatched.”
    - Marcos F.
    “Excellent Attorney!”
    “Nicole is an excellent attorney and possesses the rare blend of extraordinary skill AND compassion. She is a true fighter and doesn’t stop until justice is served.”
    - Richard C.
    “She Is My Go-To!”
    “Nicole is an excellent attorney and possesses the rare blend of extraordinary skill AND compassion. She is a true fighter and doesn’t stop until justice is served.”
    - Richard C.
    “10 Stars!”
    “If I could give 10 stars, I would!!!! Nicole was super informative and effectively communicated all potential issues I may encounter and how she would counter those concerns.”
    - Eddie P.
    “Nicole is Excellent!”
    “Nicole is excellent, she cares about her clients as actual individuals and she is passionate, personable and focuses on the fight for justice, not billable hours!”
    - Cory S.
    “Highly Experienced!”
    “I cannot speak any more highly about Nicole Sanchez as a criminal defense lawyer. Her history of experience and continued positive outcomes for her clients speaks volumes about her capabilities.”
    - Rhia F.
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Focusing Exclusively on Criminal Defense

We focus exclusively on criminal cases; providing exceptional defense representation is our sole mission. We are not distracted by other practice areas. Whether you are the target of a law enforcement investigation, have been arrested, or are preparing for trial or appeal, we know how to navigate the federal criminal justice systems in Florida.

Attorney Nicole Sanchez brings over a decade of criminal law experience and years as a former prosecutor. That insider perspective allows us to anticipate the government’s moves and build defenses that are proactive, not reactive.

Our team keeps pace with changes in state and federal law, ensuring every defense strategy reflects the most current legal standards and judicial precedents. Because we devote our resources exclusively to criminal law, we maintain a deep knowledge of Tampa’s courthouses, local practices, and procedures. 

We appear regularly before local judicial officers and know how prosecutors in Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco counties approach various types of cases. This local familiarity supports our carefully tailored tactics for each client, so you benefit from representation grounded in day-to-day trial experience and up-to-date legal knowledge.

We are aware of the fear, stress, and uncertainty that come with criminal matters. That is why we prioritize communication, clarity, and a custom legal strategy designed around your specific circumstances. Whether you face a misdemeanor, felony, or federal charge, we provide tenacious support and court-ready advocacy from start to finish. 

The Law Offices of Nicole Sanchez handles the following types of criminal cases:

No matter how complex or serious the charge, our knowledge of Florida’s sentencing laws and available defense options shapes every case plan. We prepare for litigation by analyzing  the following:

  • law enforcement methods
  • local criminal statutes
  • the strengths and weaknesses of each side

Our approach combines board certification, trial-tested skill, and a commitment to client-driven defense.

Regardless of the charges, every case we take receives our full commitment and resources. We do not take shortcuts or back down, since your future is too important to risk.

Nicole’s Board Certification means she has met the Florida Bar’s highest standard for trial skill and ethical conduct. Only a small percentage of criminal defense attorneys in the state hold this distinction. Combined with her former role as a prosecutor, her courtroom experience gives you a significant advantage when it matters most.

FAQs

What should I do if I’m arrested in Tampa?

If you are arrested in Tampa, exercise your right to remain silent and request to speak with a criminal defense attorney before answering questions. Doing so protects your rights and ensures you receive guidance tailored to your situation. Promptly contacting legal representation allows you to prepare for your first court appearance, understand potential charges, and begin shaping a defense strategy.

How does bail work in Hillsborough County?

In Hillsborough County, a judge usually reviews your case shortly after arrest to determine bail eligibility and amount. Factors influencing bail can include the seriousness of the charge, any prior record, and ties to the local community. Meeting bail conditions allows you to await trial outside of jail, but the process and specific requirements may vary based on the type of offense and your individual circumstances.

Can a conviction affect my job or professional license?

A criminal conviction in Florida can impact your current employment and future career opportunities. Certain convictions result in the suspension or loss of professional licenses, restrictions on employment in regulated industries, and challenges in passing background checks. Consulting with a criminal defense attorney helps you understand these risks and develop strategies to minimize long-term effects.

Contact Us Today

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