If you have been arrested or are under investigation in Tampa or the surrounding areas, everything you care about—your freedom, your career, your family—could be at risk. Criminal charges in Florida are serious, and the consequences of even a first offense can follow you for life. At The Brancato Law Firm, P.A., we know what is at stake because we have been there with thousands of clients before. Led by Rocky Brancato, a veteran criminal trial lawyer with over 25 years of experience and author of How to Choose a Major Crimes Attorney – or Any Criminal Defense Attorney for that Matter, our firm delivers serious, battle-tested defense for people facing serious accusations in Tampa and Hillsborough County.  

We believe everyone deserves a vigorous defense, and we are prepared to fight tirelessly to protect your rights, your freedom, and your future.

Why Choose The Brancato Law Firm, P.A. in Tampa?

When you need a criminal defense attorney in Tampa, experience and local knowledge are paramount. Here’s why The Brancato Law Firm, P.A. is the choice for serious defense in Tampa and the surrounding areas:

• Over 25 Years of Major Crimes Experience: Rocky Brancato brings over two decades of intense criminal trial experience to your case.   
• Former Second-in-Command of Tampa Bay’s Largest Criminal Defense Firm: Gain an edge with insight from a leader in the Tampa Bay legal community.   
• Battle-Tested Courtroom Lawyer for Felonies, Misdemeanors, and Criminal Traffic Offenses: We fight for you in the courtroom on any Felony, Misdemeanor, or Criminal Traffic charge in Tampa.
• Strategic Early Intervention in Tampa Cases: Our proactive approach aims to prevent charges from being filed or to secure dismissals early in the process in Hillsborough County.   
• Personal Attention from Your Lead Defense Attorney: You will work directly with Rocky Brancato, receiving dedicated and personal attention.   

At The Brancato Law Firm, P.A., we know how the system really works in Tampa and how to position you for the best possible result.   

Tampa Attorney Rocky Brancato, Author of How to Choose a Major Crimes Attorney

Attorney Rocky Brancato is the author of How to Choose a Major Crimes Attorney — or Any Criminal Defense Attorney for That Matter, a guidebook available for sale on Amazon. The book offers real-world advice on how to choose the right lawyer when facing serious criminal charges. As a visitor to our site, you can request a free copy at brancatolawfirm.com/tampa-criminal-defense-ebook — whether or not you decide to hire us. We believe it will offer you valuable insight from someone who knows the system inside and out.

Areas of Criminal Practice in Tampa Bay

We defend individuals charged with criminal offenses throughout Tampa, Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Polk Counties. Our practice areas include:   

All Criminal Offenses: No matter how serious the charge, we handle it.   

• Tampa DUI Defense: Including First-time and repeat DUI, and DUI Manslaughter. We provide experienced defense for DUI charges in Tampa.
• Drug Offenses: Possession, Trafficking, and Prescription Fraud cases in the Tampa Bay area.
• Tampa Sex Crimes: Defense against charges like Sexual Battery, Child Pornography, and Lewd Conduct.   
• Violent Crimes in Tampa: Aggravated Assault, Battery, Robbery, and Homicide defense.  
• Weapons Charges: Experienced defense for weapons offenses in Tampa and surrounding counties.
• White Collar Crimes: Handling Fraud, Embezzlement, and Identity Theft cases in Tampa Bay.
• Domestic Violence Allegations: Providing defense for domestic violence accusations in Tampa.  
• Child Abuse: Defense against child abuse allegations in Florida.  
• Criminal Traffic: Representation for criminal traffic offenses. 

Law Enforcement Agencies We Navigate in Tampa Bay

Facing investigation or charges from a local law enforcement agency in the Tampa Bay area? The attorneys at The Brancato Law Firm, P.A. have extensive, hands-on experience representing clients throughout Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco Counties. We deeply understand the specific procedures, investigative techniques, and operational nuances of various local law enforcement agencies in the region. This includes local police departments, sheriff’s offices, and state investigative units. This insight is crucial in building a strong defense and navigating the legal process effectively on your behalf.

We routinely work with and understand the practices of agencies including:

Hillsborough County Agencies

• Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO)
• Tampa Police Department (TPD)
• Plant City Police Department
• Temple Terrace Police Department
• University of South Florida Police Department (USFPD)
• Florida Highway Patrol (FHP, Troop C) – Serving Tampa Area Roadways
• Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE, Tampa Regional Operations Center)
• Hillsborough County Aviation Authority Police (Tampa International Airport Police)

Pinellas County Agencies

• Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO)
• Clearwater Police Department
• St. Petersburg Police Department
• Largo Police Department
• Pinellas Park Police Department
• Gulfport Police Department
• Tarpon Springs Police Department
• Dunedin Parks & Police (under PCSO)
• Seminole Police Department
• Kenneth City Police Department
• Belleair Police Department
• Treasure Island Police Department
• Madeira Beach Marine Patrol (under PCSO)
• Florida Highway Patrol (FHP, Troop C) – Serving Pinellas Area Roadways
• Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE, Pinellas Operations)

Pasco County Agencies

• Pasco County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO)
• New Port Richey Police Department
• Port Richey Police Department
• Zephyrhills Police Department
• Dade City Police Department
• Florida Highway Patrol (FHP, Troop C) – Serving Pasco Area Roadways
• Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE, Pasco Operations)

Why Our Experience with These Agencies Matters for Your Defense

No matter which specific agency in Hillsborough, Pinellas, or Pasco County investigates your case, our attorneys challenge their findings. We expose investigative flaws and vigorously stand up for your legal rights. Our team knows their procedures and is familiar with the key individuals. This crucial knowledge allows us to craft a defense strategy that anticipates law enforcement’s actions and tactics from the outset.

If you or a loved one is under investigation or facing charges initiated by any of these agencies, or any other law enforcement body in Hillsborough, Pinellas, or Pasco County, contact The Brancato Law Firm, P.A. today for experienced and localized legal defense.

How We Protect You Immediately After an Arrest in Tampa

An arrest in Tampa is not a conviction, but what you do next can significantly determine your future. At The Brancato Law Firm, P.A., we move quickly and strategically from the moment you contact us to protect your rights:

• Protect Your Right to Remain Silent: We immediately work to prevent damaging statements that could be used against you by authorities in Tampa.
• Challenge Illegal Stops, Searches, and Seizures: We rigorously challenge any violation of your Fourth Amendment rights during traffic stops, searches, or seizures in Tampa.
• Fight for Reasonable Bond and Pretrial Release: We advocate for the lowest possible bond and favorable pretrial release conditions in Hillsborough County courts.
• Preserve Favorable Evidence: We act fast to identify and preserve critical evidence that could support your defense before it is lost.
• Develop a Customized Defense Strategy: We begin building a defense strategy tailored to your specific situation in Tampa from day one.

Early intervention changes outcomes. The sooner you act and contact an experienced Tampa criminal defense attorney, the stronger your defense becomes.

Learn about 5 Ways an Experienced Attorney Can Protect You After an Arrest.

Early Action Wins Cases in Tampa: Real Examples

Many clients facing charges in Tampa have trusted us immediately after an arrest, and that swift trust made a significant difference in their outcomes. Here are a few examples of how early action, combined with our experience, led to favorable results:

• Fentanyl Trafficking Case in Tampa Dismissed Early: In a fentanyl trafficking case in Tampa, after challenging the legality of a vehicle search and the prosecutor’s detention motion, we successfully persuaded the State to dismiss the case within just three weeks of the arrest.
• No Charges Filed in Tampa Firearm and Cocaine Case: Our immediate advocacy at First Appearance Court in Tampa and early communication with the intake prosecutor resulted in no charges being filed in a firearm and cocaine possession case.
• Driving While License Suspended Charges Dismissed Fast in Tampa: In a driving while license suspended case, a same-day investigation into body camera footage proved our client was not the driver, leading to the charges being dismissed at the very next hearing in Tampa.

These results highlight the value of experience and swift, strategic action within the Tampa legal system. While outcomes vary, they demonstrate the potential impact of early legal intervention.

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Facing criminal charges in Tampa? Don’t wait

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Real Results You Can Trust in Tampa Criminal Cases

Our approach at Brancato Law Firm, P.A. has consistently helped clients facing the most serious allegations in Tampa and throughout Florida. We are committed to achieving the best possible outcomes, challenging weak evidence and false accusations. Here are examples of how our defense has made a difference for clients facing tough charges:

• False Sexual Molestation Allegations During Divorce in Tampa: In a challenging case involving false allegations made during a divorce, we successfully demonstrated that the accusations were fabricated for leverage, and the jury found our client not guilty.
• False Allegations by a Child Who Disliked the Defendant: We secured a not guilty verdict from a jury in a case with false allegations from a child, revealing critical inconsistencies through skilled cross-examination.
• Mistaken Identity in a Cold-Case Sexual Battery in Florida: Through detailed DNA analysis and expert consultation, we achieved a complete dismissal of charges in a cold-case sexual battery involving mistaken identity.

Your life should not be destroyed by false accusations or weak government evidence in Tampa. We are committed to exposing the truth and protecting your future through a rigorous and thorough defense.

How We Investigate More Thoroughly Than the Prosecution in Tampa

In many cases in Tampa, prosecutors provide only selective evidence, particularly in cases involving alleged injuries. At The Brancato Law Firm, P.A., we obtain and review all relevant medical records, not just the ones prosecutors choose to disclose. By consulting independent experts and thoroughly analyzing records, we have uncovered alternative explanations for alleged injuries and secured critical evidence that prosecutors missed. In major cases involving child abuse, aggravated battery, and DUI with serious bodily injury in Tampa, this approach has made the difference between conviction and dismissal.   

• Stopping damaging interviews. 
• Preserving critical exculpatory evidence. 
• Demanding suppression of illegally obtained evidence. 
• Forcing prosecutors to meet their burden beyond a reasonable doubt.

At The Brancato Law Firm, P.A., we have defended numerous clients falsely accused of serious offenses in Tampa, and we know how to fight for the innocent.

What If You Are Innocent of Charges in Tampa?

Do I need a lawyer if I am innocent?

The answer is a crucial yes. In the complex legal system in Tampa and throughout Florida, simply being innocent does not automatically protect you from wrongful arrest, aggressive prosecution, or even an unjust conviction.

The criminal justice system, while designed to seek justice, is ultimately built to process cases and obtain convictions. It is not inherently structured to automatically uncover the truth in every situation.

Hiring a skilled Tampa criminal defense attorney from Brancato Law Firm, P.A. provides essential protection if you are innocent by:

• Stopping Damaging Interviews: Preventing you from inadvertently making statements to Tampa authorities that could be misinterpreted or used against you.
• Preserving Critical Exculpatory Evidence: Acting quickly to identify and secure evidence that proves your innocence before it is lost or overlooked.
• Demanding Suppression of Illegally Obtained Evidence: Challenging any evidence gathered in violation of your constitutional rights by law enforcement in Tampa.
• Forcing Prosecutors to Meet Their Burden: Ensuring the prosecution in Hillsborough County is held to their high standard of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

At The Brancato Law Firm, P.A., we have a strong history of defending numerous clients in Tampa who were falsely accused of serious offenses. We understand the profound injustice of wrongful accusations, and we know how to fight effectively to clear your name and protect your future.

What Happens After an Arrest in Tampa? Understanding the Process in Hillsborough County

Understanding the criminal court process is critical to making informed decisions after an arrest in Tampa. In Tampa and throughout Hillsborough County, criminal cases typically move through the following stages:  

• Arrest and Booking in Tampa: After an arrest, individuals are taken to the Orient Road Jail or Falkenburg Road Jail for booking. This includes fingerprinting, photographing, and personal information collection. Learn what to do after being arrested in Tampa, Florida.   
• First Appearance and Bond Hearing: Within 24 hours, arrested individuals must be brought before a judge in Tampa to determine if probable cause exists and to set bond conditions. Early intervention by an attorney can significantly impact release conditions. 
• Filing of Charges: After the arrest, the State Attorney’s Office in Hillsborough County reviews the case to determine whether to formally file charges. In some cases, early defense efforts can influence this decision and prevent charges from being filed.  
• Arraignment: If charges are filed, an arraignment is scheduled where the accused formally pleads guilty, not guilty, or no contest in a Tampa courtroom. 

Engaging a Tampa criminal defense attorney from Brancato Law Firm, P.A. as early as possible after an arrest is absolutely critical to preserving your rights and preparing for the best possible outcome as your case progresses through the Hillsborough County court system. We guide clients through each stage in Hillsborough County with strategic planning and relentless advocacy. Learn more about the criminal court process in Hillsborough County.  

Outcomes We Fight For in Tampa Criminal Cases

At The Brancato Law Firm, P.A., we understand that every criminal case in Tampa is unique, and every client’s future matters deeply. Our legal strategy is always tailored to the specific circumstances of your situation, with the goal of achieving the best possible outcome. Depending on your case, our objectives in Tampa and Hillsborough County may include:

• Dismissal of Charges in Tampa: When evidence is weak, constitutional violations occur, or witnesses are unreliable in a Tampa case, we aggressively challenge the prosecution’s case and push for dismissals at the earliest opportunity.
• Diversion Programs in Hillsborough County: For eligible clients, we actively pursue diversion options that can lead to charges being dismissed after the completion of rehabilitative programs, helping you keep your record clean in Hillsborough County.
• Plea Negotiations to Lesser Offenses: When outright dismissal isn’t possible, we leverage our experience to negotiate for reduced charges or lighter sentencing options with prosecutors in Tampa, aiming to minimize the long-term consequences you face.
• Trial Acquittals: We are always fully prepared to take cases to trial when necessary in Tampa courts. Rocky Brancato possesses extensive jury trial experience and knows how to effectively present compelling defenses to juries. Our role extends beyond simply reacting to the State’s case; we proactively force the government to prove every element of their charges and fight relentlessly for the best available outcome at every turn in the Tampa legal system.

Your Rights Matter in Tampa

What if I am guilty?

It’s a question many people facing criminal charges in Tampa understandably ask. At The Brancato Law Firm, P.A., we want you to understand a fundamental principle of American justice, one that is fully upheld in Florida courts: every individual, whether innocent or guilty, is entitled to a strong defense.

We defend people facing charges in Tampa and Hillsborough County – we don’t just focus on the charges on paper. If you’ve made a mistake, you absolutely have not lost your constitutional protections. In the Tampa legal process, you are still fundamentally protected by:

• Your absolute right to remain silent.
• The right to be free from unreasonable searches and seizures by law enforcement in Tampa.
• The right to a fair trial in Hillsborough County.
• The right to confront your accusers.
• The right to present evidence in your defense.
• The right to be free from cruel or excessive punishment.

Our nation’s founders deliberately established these critical rights to protect all individuals from unchecked government power. Regardless of your perceived guilt or innocence, or where you fall in between, our firm in Tampa is here to protect your rights and fight for the most favorable outcome possible for your future.

Why the Constitution Guarantees Defense (Even If Guilty)

Many people in Tampa wonder, “If I am guilty, do I even deserve a defense?” The answer, unequivocally enshrined in the Constitution and consistently applied in Tampa courts, is a resounding yes. Our Founders deeply understood the potential for government overreach. Having lived under tyranny, they deliberately designed a system where:

• The government in Florida bears the entire burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
• Defendants have the absolute right to remain silent and cannot be compelled to testify against themselves.
• Every person accused of a crime in Tampa has the right to the best legal defense they can afford.
• Procedural rules and constitutional protections apply equally to everyone, without exception for perceived guilt or innocence.

It is not unethical for a Tampa criminal defense attorney to defend someone who is guilty; rather, it is a cornerstone of the system our forefathers chose as the best safeguard against tyranny. At The Brancato Law Firm, P.A., we do not judge our clients. Whether you made a mistake, exercised poor judgment, or face wrong accusations in Tampa, we enforce your constitutional rights, ensure the government meets its stringent burden of proof, and fight tirelessly for the best possible outcome given your unique circumstances.

How an Experienced Attorney Protects Your Rights in Tampa

Even if you believe you are guilty, the State still has the fundamental obligation to prove every single element of the crime, lawfully and properly. An experienced Tampa criminal defense attorney from our firm can provide vital assistance by:

• Challenging improper police conduct or procedural errors made during your arrest or investigation in Tampa.
• Exposing weaknesses, inconsistencies, or lack of evidence in the prosecution’s case.
• Working to prevent unlawful or excessive sentencing.
• Protecting your rights every step of the way through the complex Tampa legal process.

When you are facing the significant power of the government in Tampa, you deserve a defense that is as strong and capable as the system allows.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Criminal Cases in Tampa

Get answers to common questions about criminal defense in Tampa and Hillsborough County:

What should I do first if I am arrested in Tampa?

Remain silent and request a lawyer immediately. Anything you say can be used against you. Contact The Brancato Law Firm, P.A. as soon as possible.  

Can I get my charges dismissed before trial in Tampa?

Yes, in many cases. Early intervention, pretrial motions, and strategic negotiations can lead to dismissals, particularly where constitutional violations or evidentiary weaknesses exist.  

How long will my criminal case take in Hillsborough County?

Every case is different. Misdemeanor cases may resolve in a few months, while serious felonies can take a year or longer depending on motions, discovery, and trial scheduling.  

What if I cannot afford to post bond in Tampa?

Our firm works to secure the lowest possible bond or to advocate for non-monetary release conditions like pretrial services. Your immediate release is a top priority.  

Will I have to go to trial in Tampa?

Not necessarily. Many cases resolve through dismissal, diversion, or negotiated pleas. However, we prepare every case as if it will go to trial to maximize leverage and protect your interests.   

Will you still represent me if I am guilty?

Yes. Our role is to protect your rights, negotiate favorable outcomes, challenge unlawful evidence, and limit punishments – regardless of guilt. Being guilty does not erase your constitutional rights.

How Police Mistakes Can Lead to Dismissals in Tampa Cases

Police officers in Tampa must strictly follow legal procedures and constitutional requirements. When they fail to do so, critical evidence is suppressed by the court, often significantly weakening cases or leading to their entire dismissal. Understanding how police mistakes can impact your case is crucial. Learn more about how Tampa police mistakes can lead to a case dismissal [Link to Blog Post: How Tampa Police Mistakes Can Lead to a Case Dismissal].

Common law enforcement mistakes made in the field or during investigation in Tampa that can impact cases include:

• Illegal traffic stops conducted without reasonable suspicion.
• Unlawful searches performed without valid warrants or consent.
• Failure to properly advise individuals of their Miranda rights during arrest in Tampa.
• Mishandling physical evidence or breaking the chain of custody.
• Coercing witnesses or altering statements.

At The Brancato Law Firm, P.A., we aggressively investigate and challenge every potential constitutional violation and procedural error to protect our clients facing charges in Tampa. Read our blog post for a deeper dive into How Police Mistakes Can Lead to Dismissal of Charges.

Local Experience Matters in Tampa

Criminal cases in Tampa proceed through various divisions and courthouses within the Hillsborough County judicial system, including the Hillsborough County Courthouse and the Plant City Courthouse. Having real, hands-on experience with the local judges, prosecutors, and court procedures in Tampa makes a measurable difference in navigating the system effectively. We understand how local practices and relationships can affect key aspects of your case, such as bond decisions, eligibility for diversion programs, pretrial motions, and ultimately, trial strategy. When everything is on the line in Tampa, choosing an attorney with deep local knowledge is paramount.

Areas We Serve in the Tampa Bay Area

The Brancato Law Firm, P.A. proudly defends clients throughout the entire Tampa Bay area, including:

• Tampa
• South Tampa
• Plant City
• Westchase
• Riverview
• Hillsborough County
• Pinellas County
• Polk County

Wherever you are located within the Tampa Bay area, we are ready to provide aggressive and dedicated legal representation to fight for you.

What Our Clients Say

For over 25 years, The Brancato Law Firm, P.A. has proudly served thousands of clients. We are honored to share some recent feedback about their experiences and the results we achieved together.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “The rare lawyer with a heart. Mr. Brancato not only proved his legal acumen, but he did so with genuine empathy and caring. I felt he was personally invested in my success and acted above and beyond my expectations.” — Ixie

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Mr. Brancato deserves five stars from day one. I was facing a fentanyl trafficking charge for something I did not do, and Mr. Brancato got all of my charges dropped. He answered any questions I had at any time. Thank you so much.” — Andrea

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Attorney Brancato was phenomenal. Very professional, polite, and overall amazing. He was the only one who took the time to help me with a case I had been fighting for years. I cannot thank him enough.” — Kellz

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “I had a very difficult case, but in less than five business days Mr. Brancato lifted the weight off my shoulders. He goes above and beyond because he truly cares about his clients. In my opinion, if you are going to take a chance, take it on him.” — Yian

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Fast response, humble, and affordable. Attorney Rocky Brancato delivered on short notice in our family’s time of need.” — Jose

We are deeply grateful for the trust our clients place in us to handle their critical criminal defense needs in the Tampa Bay area. At The Brancato Law Firm, P.A., we view every client as an individual, not just a case number. Our firm provides the dedicated, aggressive, and compassionate legal representation you deserve.

Call a Tampa Criminal Defense Attorney With Over 25 Years Experience

When your freedom, reputation, and future are at risk in Tampa, you need real defense—not empty promises. You need a firm with the experience, strategy, and courtroom skill to make a real difference in the Tampa legal system. At The Brancato Law Firm, P.A., we have spent decades protecting people against the full power of the government. Let us put that experience to work to protect you in Tampa.

PUT ROCKY IN YOUR CORNER

Rocky’s over 25 years of criminal legal experience puts him in a unique position to adeptly handle any criminal, criminal traffic, or DUI case, at any level in Tampa. Rocky knows he has made a difference in thousands of clients’ lives over the years.  

Schedule a Free Consultation

Call Now: 813-727-7159

Office Location: 1600 E 8th Ave, Ste A200, Tampa, FL 33605

From our offices located right here in the vibrant heart of Tampa’s historic Ybor City, just a short drive from downtown’s bustling energy and easily accessible via major thoroughfares serving communities near Bayshore Boulevard or across the Selmon Expressway, Brancato Law Firm, P.A. serves the Tampa Bay community. More than just a law office, we embed ourselves deeply within the community we serve. Our attorneys understand the unique dynamics of this area, from Ybor’s historic streetcar lines to the modern developments throughout Hillsborough County. We are proud to offer dedicated criminal defense representation to the people who live and work amidst the landmarks that make Tampa unique.