Strategic Defense,
From First DUI to Death Penalty
From First DUI to Death Penalty
Tampa Criminal Defense Attorney – Brancato Law Firm, P.A.
If you were arrested in Tampa, you need a criminal defense attorney who understands how the system works from the inside. The Brancato Law Firm, P.A. has defended thousands of clients facing serious charges throughout Tampa Bay. Tampa Attorney Rocky Brancato served as Chief Operations Officer of the Hillsborough County Public Defender’s Office, where he collaborated with elected State Attorneys, Sheriffs, Police Chiefs, and Chief Judges on the policies that shape how cases are charged, prosecuted, and resolved. He understands the criminal justice system because he helped build it. Call (813) 727-7159 for a free consultation. Available 24/7 for emergencies.
Florida Criminal Charges Carry Lifelong Consequences
Criminal charges in Florida carry lifelong consequences. A felony conviction means a permanent criminal record, loss of voting rights, firearm prohibition, and serious employment barriers. Even misdemeanors appear on background checks indefinitely. The system is designed to process cases and obtain convictions—you need a defense built to protect your future.
Whether you’re facing a first-time DUI or a capital charge, your case receives the same preparation, attention, and accountability that built this firm’s reputation. At The Brancato Law Firm, P.A., experienced trial attorneys handle your defense—not paralegals, not junior associates learning on your case.
Experienced Tampa Criminal Defense—Built on 25 Years of Results
I’m Tampa Attorney Rocky Brancato, founder of The Brancato Law Firm, P.A. For over 25 years, I’ve defended thousands of clients facing serious charges in Hillsborough County—and built a practice where every attorney operates by the same standards that win cases.
Many attorneys advertise as former prosecutors and claim they know how the other side thinks. But spending a year or two taking pleas and handling low-level cases at the bottom of the system doesn’t teach you how it actually works. Real insight comes from operating at the leadership level—understanding charging policies, law enforcement priorities, and system pressure points from the top.
That system-level knowledge—built during my years leading the largest criminal defense operation in the region—is what I bring to every case. And for 25 years, I’ve used it for one purpose: defending the accused.
As a former police academy instructor, I trained officers on criminal procedure and courtroom testimony—so our firm knows exactly what they were taught and how to challenge their testimony on cross-examination.
The forensic rigor and trial preparation we bring to homicide cases also protects your career on a first-offense DUI. We defend professionals facing license consequences, college students with their futures at stake, and individuals confronting their first encounter with the criminal justice system. Serious preparation isn’t reserved for serious charges—it’s how we handle every case.
Why Early Attorney Involvement Changes Everything
The most important phone call you make may be the one you make before charges are filed.
Once a prosecutor files charges, the case takes on a life of its own. But in the critical window between an arrest and the filing decision, an experienced defense attorney can present evidence, provide context, and advocate directly to the prosecutor’s office. Many cases that would have resulted in formal charges are resolved during this window—often with no charges filed at all.
This is pre-file advocacy, and it requires an attorney who understands how the State Attorney’s Office evaluates cases, what evidence matters, and how to present a compelling reason not to prosecute. It’s far easier to prevent charges from being filed than to fight them after the fact.
If you’ve been arrested—or believe an arrest is coming—call (813) 727-7159 immediately. Early intervention can make the difference between a dismissed case and a criminal record.
Early Action Wins Cases: Recent Tampa Results
Swift legal intervention changes outcomes. The sooner you act, the stronger your defense becomes:
| Outcome | Original Charge | How We Won |
| TERMINATED in 24 Hours | Domestic Violence Battery | Pre-file advocacy with affidavits; State filed Notice of Termination within 24 hours. |
| DISMISSED | Battery | Frame-by-frame video analysis proved client was the victim; State entered Nolle Prosse. |
| DISMISSED in 3 Weeks | Fentanyl Trafficking | Challenged vehicle search legality; State dismissed before filing. |
| NO CHARGES Filed | Firearm + Cocaine Possession | Immediate First Appearance advocacy; early prosecutor communication. |
| NOT GUILTY | Sexual Molestation (divorce allegations) | Exposed fabricated allegations used for divorce leverage. |
| COMPLETE DISMISSAL | Cold-Case Sexual Battery | DNA analysis and expert consultation proved mistaken identity. |
Disclaimer: Each case is unique. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.
These results came from swift action. If you’re facing charges—or believe you may be—call (813) 727-7159 for a free case evaluation.
How We Protect You After an Arrest in Hillsborough County
An arrest is not a conviction—what happens next determines your future. When you call The Brancato Law Firm, P.A., we take immediate action:
Protect Your Right to Remain Silent: We work immediately to prevent damaging statements to investigators.
Challenge Illegal Stops and Searches: Our attorneys rigorously challenge any Fourth Amendment violation that could suppress evidence.
Fight for Reasonable Bond: We advocate for the lowest possible bond and favorable release conditions in Hillsborough County courts.
Preserve Favorable Evidence: We act fast to identify and secure critical evidence before it disappears.
Advocate Before Charges Are Filed: When possible, we engage the State Attorney’s Office before formal charges, presenting evidence and context that can result in charges never being filed.
Build Strategy from Day One: We develop a customized defense tailored to your specific situation and goals.
The Brancato Law Firm, P.A. is available 24/7 for arrest emergencies in Tampa Bay.
Tampa Criminal Defense Practice areas
The Brancato Law Firm, P.A. provides trial-tested representation for serious felonies, major crimes, and first-time offenses throughout Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco Counties:
| Practice Area | Examples of Charges |
| Homicide Defense | Murder, manslaughter, DUI manslaughter, vehicular homicide. (Death-qualified) |
| Sex Crimes Defense | Sexual battery, lewd conduct, internet solicitation, child pornography. |
| Drug Crimes Defense | Trafficking, possession, sale, prescription fraud. (Mandatory minimum defense) |
| DUI Defense | First-time DUI, felony DUI, breath test refusal, CDL violations, professional license defense. (NCDD member) |
| Violent Crimes Defense | Aggravated battery, robbery, carjacking, assault. (Trial-tested defense) |
| Domestic Violence Defense | Domestic battery, stalking, injunction violations. (False accusation defense) |
| Forensic Science | DNA analysis, fingerprint disputes, cell phone location data, toxicology reports, expert witness cross-examination. |
Don’t see your charge listed? We handle the full range of criminal matters in Tampa Bay courts.
What If You’re Innocent?
Being innocent does not automatically protect you from wrongful arrest or aggressive prosecution. The system processes cases—it doesn’t always find the truth.
An experienced Tampa defense attorney protects you by stopping damaging interviews before you inadvertently say something harmful, preserving critical exculpatory evidence before it disappears, demanding suppression of illegally obtained evidence, and forcing prosecutors to meet their burden beyond a reasonable doubt.
Wrongful accusations demand aggressive defense. The Brancato Law Firm, P.A. has cleared names in Hillsborough County courts—and our attorneys can fight to clear yours.
What If You Made a Mistake?
If you’ve made a mistake, you have not lost your constitutional protections. The government must still prove every element of the crime lawfully. You are still protected by your absolute right to remain silent, freedom from unreasonable searches and seizures, the right to a fair trial and to confront your accusers, and freedom from cruel or excessive punishment.
We don’t judge our clients. Whether you made a mistake or face false accusations, our attorneys enforce your constitutional rights and fight for the best possible outcome.
What Happens After an Arrest in Tampa? (The Critical Timeline)
Understanding the process reduces anxiety and helps you make better decisions. Here’s what to expect for criminal charges in Hillsborough County:
| Stage | What Happens | Why Attorney Matters |
| Arrest & Booking | Transport to Orient Road or Falkenburg Road Jail; fingerprinting, photos. | Prevent damaging statements; invoke right to counsel immediately. |
| First Appearance (Within 24 hours) | Judge determines probable cause; sets bond conditions. | Advocate for lowest bond; challenge probable cause if weak. |
| Filing Decision | State Attorney reviews case; decides whether to file formal charges. | Pre-file advocacy can prevent charges from ever being filed. |
| Arraignment | Formal plea entered; discovery process begins. | Challenge weak charges; begin building the defense strategy. |
Confused about where your case stands? Call (813) 727-7159 for a free case evaluation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tampa Criminal Defense
Questions About Arrests and Charges
What should I do first if I’m arrested in Tampa?
Remain silent and request an attorney immediately. Anything you say can be used against you. Don’t answer questions, don’t explain your side, and don’t try to talk your way out. Contact a Tampa criminal defense attorney as soon as possible—The Brancato Law Firm, P.A. is available 24/7 for emergencies at (813) 727-7159.
Will I have to go to trial?
Not necessarily. Many cases resolve through dismissal, diversion programs, or negotiated pleas. However, we prepare every case as if it will go to trial—this maximizes leverage and protects your interests regardless of outcome.
What if I can’t afford bond?
We work to secure the lowest possible bond or non-monetary release conditions like pretrial services. Your immediate release is a priority because it allows us to work more effectively on your defense and keeps your life as stable as possible.
Questions About Your Case Timeline
How long will my criminal case take in Hillsborough County?
Every case is different. Misdemeanors may resolve in a few months; serious felonies can take a year or longer depending on motions, discovery, and trial scheduling. During your free consultation, we provide realistic expectations based on your specific charges and circumstances.
Can I get charges dismissed before trial?
Yes. The State Attorney’s Office reviews every arrest before deciding whether to file formal charges. An experienced attorney can present evidence, witness statements, and legal arguments during this window that result in charges never being filed. This is called pre-file advocacy, and it’s one of the most effective ways to resolve a case—but it requires acting quickly after an arrest.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Brancato Law Firm, P.A.
Questions About Fees and Representation
How much does a criminal defense attorney at your firm cost?
Fees depend on the complexity of your case, the charges involved, and the work required. During your free consultation, we explain exactly what your case involves and provide transparent pricing, including information on payment plans. You deserve to understand your investment before making a decision. Call The Brancato Law Firm, P.A. at (813) 727-7159 to discuss your case.
Will Rocky Brancato personally handle my case?
Rocky Brancato remains personally involved in case strategy and major decisions on serious matters. The Brancato Law Firm operates as a team—and every team member meets the standards Rocky developed over 25 years of practice and while mentoring hundreds of attorneys. You’ll always have experienced trial counsel in your corner, with senior oversight on every case. During your free consultation, we’ll discuss exactly what representation looks like for your specific situation.
Questions About Choosing the Brancato Law Firm, P.A.
Do you handle first-time offenses and misdemeanors?
Absolutely. First-time offenses and misdemeanors carry serious consequences—job loss, professional license issues, immigration consequences, and a permanent record. We bring the same thorough preparation to every case, regardless of charge level. A first offense is often the best opportunity to protect your record before things escalate. Call (813) 727-7159 for a free consultation.
Why should I hire The Brancato Law Firm over other criminal defense firms?
Most criminal defense attorneys learned the system from the bottom—either as junior prosecutors taking pleas or as defenders handling high-volume caseloads. Rocky Brancato operated at the top, leading the largest criminal defense operation in Tampa Bay as Chief Operations Officer of the Hillsborough County Public Defender’s Office. That system-level insight—combined with 25 years exclusively defending the accused and never switching sides—means your case benefits from knowledge most attorneys simply don’t have. Call (813) 727-7159 for a free consultation to discuss your situation.
Serving Tampa Bay Courts: Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco Counties
Our office sits two blocks from the Hillsborough County Courthouse at 620 E. Twiggs Street, Suite 205. This enables us to move quickly in court and in emergency situations.
We defend clients throughout:
Hillsborough County: Tampa, Brandon, Plant City, Riverview, South Tampa, Westchase
Pasco County: New Port Richey, Dade City, Wesley Chapel (West Pasco Judicial Center, East Pasco Judicial Center)
Pinellas County: St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Largo
Your Freedom Is at Stake—Act Now
When your freedom, reputation, and future are on the line, you need experienced defense—not empty promises. Every day you wait is a day the prosecution builds its case. And if charges haven’t been filed yet, early action may prevent them entirely.
Contact Tampa Criminal Defense Attorney Rocky Brancato Today
Call (813) 727-7159 for a Free, Confidential Consultation
Schedule a Confidential Consultation Online
Available 24/7 for emergencies.
620 E. Twiggs Street, Suite 205, Tampa, FL 33602
(Two Blocks from the Hillsborough County Courthouse)
Serving Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco Counties
The Brancato Law Firm, P.A. is a Tampa-based criminal defense practice. We are not affiliated with any other Brancato-named law firms.
Meet Rocky Brancato
For over 25 years, Rocky Brancato has been a prominent force in Tampa Bay’s legal arena. Rocky rose to second-in-command at Tampa Bay’s largest defense firm before launching Brancato Law Firm, P.A. As a former specialized major crimes attorney for serious offenses like...
Brancato Law Firm, P.A. Recent Blog Posts
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January 29, 2026 What is Loitering and Prowling in Florida? KEY TAKEAWAY Bottom Line: Loitering and prowling under Florida Statute § 856.021 requires the State to prove TWO elements: (1) you were in a place...
January 20, 2026 Supreme Court Defines Fourth Amendment Standard for Emergency Welfare Checks: Case v. Montana The Brancato Law Firm, P.A. | January 2026 The U.S. Supreme Court’s unanimous decision in Case v. Montana, 607 U.S. ___ (2026), establishes...
Author of How to Choose a Major Crimes Attorney — or Any Criminal Defense Attorney for That Matter
This Amazon-listed book helps you avoid costly mistakes when hiring a defense lawyer. As a visitor here, you can request a free eBook copy — valuable guidance, whether or not you hire us.
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Tampa Office
620 E Twiggs St
Suite #205
Suite #205
Tampa, FL 33602
Phone: (813) 727-7159
Located two blocks from the Hillsborough County Courthouse.
Contact Us Now
Free Legal Consultation (813) 727-7159