Sarasota Criminal Defense Attorney

Getting an Aggressive Criminal Defense Lawyer Is Your First Priority

If you or a loved one has been arrested in Sarasota or Arcadia, one of the first steps you should take is to hire an experienced criminal defense attorney to help you avoid conviction. A conviction can result in jail or prison time, fines costing thousands of dollars, and other serious consequences, including a criminal record that could make finding a job, obtaining housing, or living a normal life extremely difficult.

At the Law Offices of Eric Reisinger, P.A., we have more than two decades of experience protecting our clients’ rights and freedom inside and outside the courtroom. As a former prosecutor, Attorney Eric Reisinger understands how the court will approach your case, helping you develop an effective and personalized legal defense to obtain the most favorable outcome. He is not afraid to take your case to trial.

Call us today at (941) 541-5335 and request a free initial consultation. We serve Sarasota, Arcadia, Manatee and Charlotte Counties.

Criminal Charges We Handle

Our Sarasota criminal defense lawyer is prepared to handle a wide range of cases, from minor infractions to serious felonies. Each case requires a detailed approach based on the charge, the facts, and the unique circumstances surrounding the arrest.

We provide strategic defense in cases involving:

• DUI and traffic offenses
• Drug crimes (possession, sale, trafficking)
• Theft, burglary, and property crimes
• Domestic violence and restraining order violations
• Violent crimes (assault, battery, manslaughter, homicide)
• White collar offenses (fraud, embezzlement, forgery)
• Weapons charges
• Juvenile delinquency matters
• Probation violations
• Federal charges

Each type of case brings its own challenges and opportunities. The goal is not just to fight charges—it’s to analyze the evidence, expose weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and secure the best possible outcome.

Consequences of Criminal Charges in Florida

Crimes in Florida are divided into two main categories: misdemeanors and felonies.

Misdemeanors are lower-level offenses that carry a maximum county jail sentence of one year. Common examples of misdemeanors include DUI, marijuana possession, battery, petty theft, and disorderly conduct.

The following are the two types of misdemeanors in Florida:

• First-degree misdemeanor – Carries a jail sentence of up to one year and a maximum fine of $1,000
• Second-degree misdemeanor – Carries a maximum jail term of 60 days and a fine not exceeding $500

On the other hand, felonies are more serious and punishable by up to life imprisonment or the death penalty. Common examples of felonies include murder, sex crimes, drug possession besides cannabis, kidnapping, burglary, grand theft, aggravated battery, and child abuse.

Felonies in Florida include:

• Capital felony – Punishable by life imprisonment without parole or the death penalty
• Life felony – Punishable by life imprisonment and a maximum fine of $15,000
• First-degree felony – Punishable by a maximum prison sentence of 30 years and a fine of no more than $10,000
• Second-degree felony – Punishable by imprisonment for up to 15 years and a maximum fine of $10,000
• Third-degree felony – Punishable by imprisonment for up to five years and a fine not exceeding $5,000.

How the Florida Criminal Process Works

Understanding how a criminal case unfolds helps you make informed decisions. A Sarasota criminal defense lawyer guides clients through every stage of the legal process, ensuring rights are protected and opportunities are not missed.

1. Investigation

Before charges are filed, law enforcement may be gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, or surveilling suspects. If you're aware that you're under investigation, this is the time to involve a Sarasota criminal defense attorney. Pre-charge representation may help prevent charges or influence what is ultimately filed.

2. Arrest and Booking

If you're arrested, you’ll be taken to jail, photographed, fingerprinted, and held until a bond hearing. The decisions you make in this stage—especially about speaking to police—can have a major impact. Always invoke your right to remain silent and request a lawyer immediately.

3. First Appearance and Bond Hearing

Within 24 hours, you'll appear before a judge to be informed of the charges and conditions of release. A strong Sarasota criminal defense lawyer can argue for a lower bond or non-monetary conditions based on your background and ties to the community.

4. Arraignment

At the arraignment, you’ll enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. The court will also set deadlines for discovery and pre-trial motions.

5. Discovery and Pre-Trial Motions

Your defense attorney will review all the prosecution’s evidence and file motions to suppress illegal searches, dismiss unsupported charges, or limit damaging testimony.

6. Plea Negotiations or Trial

Many cases are resolved through negotiated pleas that reduce charges or penalties. If no agreement is reached—or if you choose to go to trial—your attorney will present a full defense, challenge the government’s witnesses, and argue for acquittal.

Comprehensive Criminal Defense in Sarasota & Arcadia: Local Insights

When facing criminal charges in Sarasota or Arcadia, having a defense attorney who understands the local legal landscape is crucial. The Law Offices of Eric Reisinger, P.A. is deeply familiar with the intricacies of the Sarasota County and DeSoto County court systems. We recognize that dealing with criminal charges can be overwhelming, especially with the potential consequences, which may include fines, imprisonment, and a lasting impact on your life.

Residents of Sarasota and Arcadia often face unique challenges when dealing with criminal charges. The local economy, heavily reliant on tourism and agriculture, means that a criminal record can significantly affect your employment opportunities. Additionally, the close-knit nature of these communities can make it difficult to move past a conviction without the right legal support.

We understand the importance of local resources in building a strong defense. We are well-versed in the procedures and personnel of local government bodies such as the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office and the DeSoto County Clerk of Court. This knowledge allows us to navigate the system efficiently and effectively on your behalf.

Our firm is committed to addressing the specific pain points of our clients in Sarasota and Arcadia. Whether it’s the fear of losing your job, the stigma of a criminal record, or the complexities of local legal procedures, we are here to help. Attorney Eric Reisinger’s background as a former prosecutor gives him a unique perspective on how to counter the strategies used by the prosecution, ensuring that you receive a fair trial.

What a Sarasota Criminal Defense Lawyer Provides

Facing the criminal justice system alone puts your future at risk. A skilled defense attorney is more than someone who speaks for you in court—they are your advocate, strategist, and shield.

Here’s what we deliver:

• Thorough case analysis – No charge is too small to examine every detail.
• Aggressive pre-trial motions – We suppress unlawful evidence and force the state to prove its case.
• Smart negotiation – Whether through diversion programs, plea agreements, or reduced charges, we fight for the best resolution.
• Trial advocacy – We are fully prepared to take your case before a jury if that’s what justice demands.
• Open communication – Clients are never left in the dark. You’ll know what’s happening at every stage.

Don’t let criminal charges dictate your future. Contact the Law Offices of Eric Reisinger, P.A. today by calling (941) 541-5335 for a free initial consultation and take the first step towards protecting your rights and freedom.