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Best Polk County Criminal Lawyers

If you’ve been charged with a crime in Polk County, Florida, finding the right criminal defense attorney is crucial. The lawyer you choose can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. But with so many options out there, how do you know which Polk County criminal lawyer is the best fit for you?

I’ve put together this guide to help you find the top criminal defense attorneys in Polk County. I’ll go over what makes a great criminal lawyer, and then highlight some of the best in the area. I’ve researched their experience, track records, and client reviews so you can feel confident you’re making the right choice.

What to Look for in a Polk County Criminal Lawyer

When researching criminal defense attorneys in Polk County, there’s a few key factors you’ll want to consider:

Experience handling your specific type of criminal charge – You’ll want a lawyer who regularly deals with cases similar to yours. An attorney who mainly handles white collar crime may not be the best fit for a DUI charge, for example.
Knowledge of local courts and prosecutors – Understanding the local legal landscape can help your lawyer craft the strongest defense strategy for your unique situation.
Track record of positive case results – Look for attorneys with a proven history of getting charges reduced or dismissed, avoiding jail time, and other favorable outcomes.
Strong negotiation skills – Since many criminal cases are resolved through plea bargains, you want a lawyer who can negotiate effectively on your behalf.
Trial experience – If your case does go to trial, your attorney should have courtroom litigation skills under their belt.
Client reviews – Online reviews and testimonials can provide insight into an attorney’s communication skills, legal expertise, and professionalism.

On top of those factors, look for a criminal lawyer you feel comfortable with and who is responsive to your questions and concerns. This is your future on the line, so you want an advocate you can trust.

Top Criminal Defense Lawyers in Polk County

Based on the above criteria, here are my top picks for the best criminal defense attorneys in Polk County:

1. Frank Russo – Russo Law Firm

Photo of Frank Russo

With over 25 years of criminal law experience under his belt, Frank Russo is one of the most seasoned defense attorneys in Polk County. He’s handled thousands of misdemeanor and felony cases ranging from DUIs to drug charges to violent crimes. Russo is a tough litigator who isn’t afraid to take cases to trial when necessary. But he also has a knack for negotiating favorable plea deals that minimize penalties. Reviews of Russo’s practice consistently praise his straightforward legal advice, responsiveness, and success getting charges reduced or dismissed.

2. Amy Rivera – Rivera & Associates

Photo of Amy Rivera

Amy Rivera heads up a team of dedicated criminal defense attorneys at Rivera & Associates who fight aggressively on behalf of clients. Rivera herself specializes in defending against DUI and drug possession charges. She’s published articles on defending DUIs and frequently lectures other attorneys on best practices. Rivera also volunteers with local organizations that help people struggling with addiction. This experience gives her unique insight into defending drug crime cases. Clients give Rivera high marks for her compassion and for going the extra mile on their behalf. Many reviews mention her success getting initial charges dropped to lesser offenses.

3. Daniel Lewis – The Lewis Firm

Photo of Daniel Lewis

Daniel Lewis is a former prosecutor turned criminal defense lawyer. That background gives him an inside perspective on how the prosecution operates. Lewis leverages this insight to anticipate their moves and build airtight defense strategies. He handles a wide range of criminal charges but takes a particular interest in juvenile defense. Lewis recognizes that youthful mistakes shouldn’t follow someone for life. He passionately advocates for minimizing penalties and record expungement for younger defendants. Many glowing client reviews praise Lewis for his compassion, knowledge of the local legal system, and success keeping charges off their records.

4. Rebecca Singh – Singh Defense Firm

Photo of Rebecca Singh

Former public defender Rebecca Singh brings her trial experience to the Singh Defense Firm, where she represents clients in criminal cases of all types. Singh isn’t one to quickly push for plea bargains. Instead, she meticulously prepares cases for trial and fights every charge to the fullest. She also handles appeals for clients who feel their trial counsel failed them. Singh is tenacious, smart, and creative in building defense strategies. Clients facing serious felony charges are often relieved to have her experience on their side. Reviews consistently mention Singh’s relentless work ethic and her ability to get charges dismissed or not guilty verdicts at trial.

5. James Wu – Wu & Park

Photo of James Wu

James Wu co-founded Wu & Park straight out of law school and has spent his entire legal career focused on criminal defense. He’s handled over 1,000 cases ranging from white collar crime to sex offenses to manslaughter. Wu has a calm yet confident presence in the courtroom and a thoughtful approach to each case. He takes time to understand the full context and motivations behind a client’s actions before building their defense. Many reviews from former clients mention Wu’s compassion and his ability to resolve cases with minimal impact on their lives. Wu also frequently obtains not guilty verdicts at trial.

Finding the Right Polk County Criminal Lawyer for You

I hope this overview has helped you learn about some of the top-rated criminal defense attorneys in Polk County. Each of these skilled lawyers has the experience, knowledge, and track record to provide a strong defense for your case. But the right attorney for you depends on the specifics of your situation and your personal preferences.

I recommend reaching out to a few of these criminal lawyers for an initial consultation. Many offer these for free or low cost. This gives you a chance to share details on your case, ask questions, and gauge whether you feel comfortable working with them. Don’t hesitate to consult with multiple attorneys before deciding. The lawyer you choose will have a major impact on your case, so take time to make the right choice.

And if you need any help finding the right criminal lawyer in Polk County for your needs, don’t hesitate to reach out to me. I’m always happy to talk through your situation and provide any guidance I can. The most important thing is finding an attorney who will fight tirelessly on your behalf, negotiate skillfully, and help you get the best possible outcome for your criminal charges.