Experienced Criminal Defense in Jacksonville
Criminal charges are overwhelming, and the stakes are high—your freedom, your record, and your future.
At Plata Schott Law, we provide focused, strategic criminal defense for people charged with crimes in Jacksonville and across Florida. Our trial-tested attorneys know the local judges, prosecutors, and procedures, and we move quickly to protect your rights at every stage of the case.
Please note: we do not handle appeals, post-conviction relief, or standalone civil rights (Section 1983) claims.
You don’t have to figure this out alone. You can speak directly with a lawyer and get a clear plan.
Understanding Criminal Defense & Types of Cases
Criminal defense is the legal protection of a person accused of a crime. Charges can range from misdemeanors like shoplifting or DUI to serious felonies such as aggravated battery, burglary, armed robbery, or homicide.
Even a “minor” case can mean:
Jail or prison time
Probation and strict conditions
Heavy fines and court costs
A permanent criminal record
Immigration, employment, housing, and licensing consequences
Having an experienced criminal defense attorney is not a luxury—it’s essential. We handle a wide range of charges, including:
Drug offenses: possession, sale, trafficking, prescription cases
DUI and criminal driving offenses: car or boat, alcohol or drugs
Theft and burglary: shoplifting, grand theft, burglary of homes, cars, or businesses
Violent crimes: battery, aggravated assault, robbery, armed offenses, homicide
Armed and gun crimes: carrying concealed, felon in possession, weapons enhancements
Child abuse and medical neglect: cases involving allegations of harm to minors
Juveniles charged as adults: when the State tries to push a child into adult court
Each type of case calls for different defenses, strategies, and negotiations. We tailor our approach to the specific charges and facts in front of us.
How a Criminal Defense Lawyer Helps
A good criminal defense lawyer is more than someone who “shows up in court.” At Plata Schott Law, we:
Analyze the charges and evidence
We review the arrest, discovery, police reports, bodycam, and witness statements to find weaknesses and constitutional issues.Challenge illegal searches, stops, and statements
If police violated your rights, we file motions to suppress evidence or statements—and fight those motions in court.Build a defense strategy
We look at self-defense, misidentification, lack of intent, chain of custody problems, witness credibility, and more.Negotiate from a position of strength
Sometimes the best outcome is a dismissal. Sometimes it’s a reduced charge, diversion, or a plea that protects you from the harshest consequences. We negotiate based on preparation—not desperation.Take cases to trial when needed
Our attorneys have tried many cases to verdict. When trial is the right move, we are ready.
Throughout the case, we give straight answers, clear options, and honest risk assessments—no sugarcoating, no scare tactics just to get a retainer.
Fight Criminal Charges with Serious Legal Defense
If you are facing criminal charges in Florida, the most important decision you make right now is who you put between you and the State.
At Plata Schott Law, you get:
Direct access to your attorney
Honest, strategic advice
Trial-tested advocacy
Local experience in Jacksonville courts
We will examine the evidence, protect your rights, and fight for the best possible outcome—whether that means dismissal, reduction, diversion, or preparing for trial.
📞 Call, text, or email us today to schedule a free, confidential case evaluation with a criminal defense attorney.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Florida
My family member was just arrested. What should I do?
Three things: tell them not to speak to police or discuss the case on the jail phone (calls are recorded); contact a criminal defense lawyer before first appearance (usually within 24 hours); avoid social media posts about the case.
Do I have to talk to the police?
No. In almost every Florida investigation, the right answer is to invoke the right to counsel and remain silent, clearly and without ambiguity. Anything you say can be used against you.
What happens at first appearance?
Within about 24 hours of arrest, a magistrate reviews probable cause, sets bond, and addresses initial release conditions. Having defense counsel present meaningfully changes the bond argument.
What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor?
Misdemeanors are punishable by up to one year in county jail; felonies carry potential state prison time. Felony sentencing uses the Criminal Punishment Code scoresheet under Fla. Stat. Ch. 921.
Can my case be dismissed or reduced?
Sometimes. Motions to suppress evidence obtained through unlawful searches or statements, motions to dismiss for insufficient probable cause, and negotiated resolutions like pretrial diversion are all possible outcomes when the facts and law support them.
What does it cost to hire Plata Schott Law for adult criminal defense?
Flat-fee basis depending on complexity and severity of the charges. Fees are discussed at the first consultation and quoted in writing before you sign. The consultation is free and confidential.
Do you handle Spanish-speaking clients?
Yes. The firm is bilingual and attorney Belkis Plata's first language is Spanish.
Please note: we do not handle appeals, post-conviction relief, expungement, or standalone civil rights (Section 1983) claims.