Best Okeechobee County Criminal Lawyers
Finding the right criminal defense attorney in Okeechobee County, Florida can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. With so much on the line, you want an experienced lawyer who knows the local courts and prosecutors and who will fight aggressively to protect your rights.
This article reviews some of the top-rated criminal defense attorneys and law firms in Okeechobee County to help you make an informed choice. Whether you are facing misdemeanor or felony charges, these lawyers have the skills and track record to build the strongest possible defense.
David Golden – Experienced Local Criminal Defense
If you are looking for an experienced Okeechobee County criminal defense attorney who knows the local courts inside and out, David Golden should be at the top of your list. Golden has been practicing law in Okeechobee for over 20 years and has extensive experience defending clients against all types of criminal charges including drug crimes, theft, violent crimes, sex crimes, and white collar crimes.
Golden takes the time to understand the details of each client’s case and then develops a customized defense strategy. He is known for his relentless pursuit of every possible advantage for his clients. Golden’s past successes include getting charges reduced or dismissed pre-trial, achieving not guilty verdicts at trial, and negotiating reduced sentences post-conviction.
One of the things that sets Golden apart is his understanding of addiction and mental health issues that often contribute to criminal behavior. Whenever possible, he works to get clients into treatment programs as an alternative to jail time. Golden also assists clients with sealing and expunging records after they have served their time.
Whittel & Melton – Statewide Firm with Local Office
For a large law firm with extensive resources and attorneys licensed across Florida, consider Whittel & Melton. They are one of the state’s largest criminal defense firms with offices in Okeechobee County and nine other locations across Florida.
Whittel & Melton have over 100 attorneys on staff, giving them the manpower to thoroughly investigate complex criminal cases, interview witnesses, consult with experts, research case law, and file every type of motion. They handle serious felony cases ranging from drug trafficking and violent crimes to white collar and sex offenses.
The Whittel & Melton office in Okeechobee County is headed by attorney Corey Cohen. He represents clients in local courts including county and circuit courts as well as juvenile court when necessary. The firm has an impressive track record of positive case results in the area.
The Florida Law Group – Former Prosecutors on Your Side
The Florida Law Group is a unique criminal defense firm because several of their attorneys are former state prosecutors. This inside perspective from both sides of the courtroom gives them an advantage when defending clients in Okeechobee County.
The firm is led by managing attorney and former prosecutor Larry Kerrigan. He heads an experienced legal team including former prosecutors and public defenders. Their areas of expertise include DUI, drug crimes, theft, domestic violence, juvenile crimes, and federal charges.
The Florida Law Group attorneys understand how prosecutors build cases and the flaws to look for. They use this insight to exploit weaknesses, develop defense strategies, and negotiate aggressively with their former colleagues. Consultations are free and most major credit cards are accepted.
Frank & Kontos – Reputation for Tough Defense
The law firm of Frank & Kontos has earned a strong reputation in Okeechobee County for taking on tough cases and fighting relentlessly for the rights of the criminally accused, no matter how challenging the case. Founding attorney Peter Kontos is a certified criminal trial expert who has handled over 150 jury trials.
The firm represents clients facing major felonies like murder, violent assaults, drug trafficking, sex crimes, and federal charges. Kontos has successfully defended clients facing the death penalty and life sentences. He takes pride in scrutinizing the prosecution’s case, raising doubt, and winning dismissals before trial whenever possible.
Frank & Kontos have extensive experience with expert witnesses, private investigators, and forensic specialists. Their team-oriented approach pools the unique talents of each attorney for the client’s benefit. Attorney Peter Kontos speaks Spanish fluently and understands the customs and culture of Spanish-speaking defendants.
Take Your Time Choosing the Right Lawyer
Being arrested for a crime in Okeechobee County can be scary and overwhelming. The good news is that experienced local criminal defense attorneys are ready to protect your rights at every stage. Take your time researching options, meeting with attorneys in person, and choosing someone you feel comfortable with.
The lawyers profiled here have the skills and track record to analyze your case, develop smart defense strategies, and fight for the most favorable outcome under the circumstances. Don’t go it alone against an experienced prosecutor. Get an experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side.