A felony charge has the power to upend your future in an instant. Whether you’re facing accusations of a serious offense in Sarasota, Manatee, or Desoto County, the decisions you make in the early days can dramatically shape the outcome. The stakes are real: your freedom, your reputation, your right to vote, your right to own and possess a firearm, and even your ability to care for your family may be on the line. In moments like these, finding the right legal advocate isn’t just important—it’s critical.

But with so much on the line, how do you know who to trust with your defense? Michael Fayard, attorney at law, stands out not just for his experience, but for his unique perspective as both a former prosecutor in Sarasota County, Florida and Maui County, Hawaii, and a seasoned defense attorney representing clients in Florida, Colorado, Hawaii, Georgia, Alabama, Kentucky, as well as other serious cases. His approach goes beyond the courtroom—offering free consultations, affordable payment plans, and bilingual Spanish-language support to ensure every client feels heard and empowered.

If you’re searching for an attorney for felony charges, you need more than a name and a handshake. You deserve a step-by-step guide to help you make informed choices and avoid common missteps. The following seven tips will equip you with practical strategies for selecting the right felony defense lawyer—so you can move forward with confidence and clarity. Let’s get started.

1. Know Exactly Which Felony Charge You Face and Its Potential Consequences

Before you call an attorney, make sure you know the precise felony statute you’re charged under. Felony degrees in Florida come with dramatically different penalties—and your defense strategy hinges on the exact classification. Misidentifying the charge can lead to missed deadlines, incorrect advice, and surprises at sentencing. Take the time to read your charging documents or arrest report carefully and note the statute number, date, and any aggravating factors (like use of a weapon or victim’s age).

Understand Felony Classifications and Penalties in Florida

Florida law divides felonies into four broad categories. Each degree carries its own prison term, fine range, and—sometimes—mandatory minimums. Below is a quick reference:

Felony Degree	Prison Term	Fine Range
Life Felony	Life imprisonment or death (capital offenses)	Up to $15,000
1st-Degree	Up to 30 years	Up to $10,000
2nd-Degree	Up to 15 years	Up to $10,000
3rd-Degree	Up to 5 years	Up to $5,000

• “Worst” felony charges include first-degree murder (capital felony) and offenses carrying mandatory minimum terms, such as certain drug-trafficking convictions.
• Remember that mandatory minimums can eliminate judicial discretion—meaning a judge may have to impose at least the statutorily required minimum prison term.
• Knowing the statute lets your attorney explore defenses specific to that charge, from suppression motions to plea negotiations.

Analyze Local Crime and Clearance Data

Understanding how often prosecutors bring specific felony charges—and how often they secure arrests—is a smart move. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement publishes county-level crime and clearance data at FDLE’s UCR Offense Data. Here’s how to use it:

Select your county (Sarasota, Manatee, or Desoto) and review the breakdown of felony offenses.
Compare clearance rates (the percentage of cases “solved” by arrest or other means) to see which crimes local prosecutors prioritize.
Spot trends: a rising clearance rate for drug felonies might indicate tougher enforcement, while low clearance on property crimes could signal investigative gaps.

By matching your exact charge to local statistics, you’ll gain insight into:

The strength of the prosecution’s likely evidence.
Whether certain offenses lead to more aggressive plea offers.
How hard an attorney will need to push on motions to suppress or dismiss.

Armed with this knowledge, you’re ready to vet attorneys who have experience handling your specific degree of felony in your own backyard.

2. Verify Attorney Credentials and Standing with The Florida Bar

Choosing an attorney in good standing with The Florida Bar is non-negotiable. Confirming licensure and ethical history helps you avoid surprises like disciplinary sanctions or unauthorized practice. Here’s how to make sure your prospective counsel has a clean record.

Check License Status via The Florida Bar’s ACAP

Florida’s Attorney Consumer Assistance Program (ACAP) portal lets you verify an attorney’s active status, specialty certifications, and contact information in just a few steps:

Go to the search page at the Florida Bar.
Enter the attorney’s full name or Bar number in the “Search” field.
Look for “Status” (Active, Inactive, Suspended), and date of admission.
Check for any practice restrictions or public warnings.

If the attorney doesn’t appear or shows a non-active status, treat it as a serious red flag—only attorneys with “Active” status can represent clients in Florida courts.

3. Prioritize Specialized Felony Defense Experience

Felony cases aren’t traffic tickets in a courtroom suit—they’re high-stakes matters that demand deep knowledge of criminal procedure, evidence law, and trial tactics. When you’re facing serious charges, you want an attorney who spends the bulk of their practice on felony defense—someone who knows exactly how to spot weaknesses in the State’s case, challenge evidence, and build a compelling story for judges and jurors. Skipping this step can leave you with a generalist who’s out of their depth when the toughest motions and trial strategies come into play.

Seek Former Prosecutor and Trial Track Records

An attorney, like Michael Fayard, has spent as a prosecutor can be your hidden weapon on your side of the aisle. Having once built cases for the State, they understand how prosecutors think, how they structure indictments, and which pieces of evidence they prize most. When you meet a prospective lawyer, ask:

“What percentage of your practice is felony work?”
“Can you tell me about a recent case where you took a felony to trial?”
“How many jury trials have you handled, and what were the outcomes?”

Look for concrete numbers—acquittals, dismissals, or reduced sentences—not just vague boasts about “handling serious cases.” A lawyer’s published trial results and biographies should list headline victories or unique defenses they’ve successfully deployed.

Confirm Knowledge of Local Courts and Judges

Felony dockets vary significantly from one county to the next. A defense attorney who knows the judges’ preferences, local motion-practice quirks, and how each division handles bond hearings can navigate your case more efficiently and spot opportunities others miss. For example, a judge in Sarasota County might routinely grant suppression motions for unlawful searches, while Manatee County judges could be stricter on evidentiary issues.

When you talk to an attorney, try questions like:

“Which judges in this circuit tend to favor defense motions?”
“How does this court calendar felony pretrial conferences?”
“Are there specific local rules or deadlines I should be aware of?”

The more familiar your attorney is with the floors and practices of your county’s criminal courthouse, the fewer surprises you’ll face as your case unfolds.

Inquire About Proven Defense Strategies

Every felony charge requires its own playbook. Rather than accepting a one-size-fits-all approach, ask the attorney to walk you through the actual tactics they’ve used to beat felony charges:

Independent investigation—Did they hire private investigators or forensic experts to gather evidence?
Motions to suppress—Have they successfully argued that evidence was obtained in violation of your rights?
Alibi defenses—Can they present credible witnesses or data (phone records, surveillance) to place you elsewhere?
Entrapment claims—Have they shown that law enforcement induced the alleged crime?
Witness interviews—Do they have a track record of finding and preparing key witnesses before trial?

Framing your questions around “How do you beat a felony charge?” will help you separate attorneys who rely on plea deals from those ready and able to fight for acquittals or dismissals. A skilled felony lawyer won’t just list potential defenses—they’ll explain how and when those defenses succeeded in real cases, giving you confidence in their courtroom experience.

4. Evaluate Track Record of Success and Case Outcomes

Assessing an attorney’s history of wins, dismissals, and negotiations tells you more than any sales pitch ever could. By digging into concrete case results, you get a clear picture of how your potential lawyer handles real-world challenges. Keep in mind that every felony charge is different—so look for patterns of success in cases similar to yours.

Review Published Case Results on the Firm’s Website

A reputable defense firm will post detailed summaries of its victories, from outright dismissals to jury verdicts and high-value settlements. Check out Fayard Law’s Case Results page to see examples such as:

Felony drug trafficking charges dismissed after suppression of unlawfully obtained evidence
Aggravated assault charges reduced to misdemeanors through strategic plea negotiations
Racketeering indictments resolved in favor of the client following exhaustive independent investigations

Without these summaries, it’s impossible to know whether an attorney genuinely prevails in court or simply boasts without backing. Look for specificity: what was the charge, which motion turned the tide, and how did the outcome compare to the potential maximum penalty?

Understand How Charges Have Been Dropped or Reduced

One of the key questions is: can a lawyer get a felony dropped? In many cases, the answer is yes—if they know how to use pretrial motions and leverage weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. Effective tactics include:

Filing motions to dismiss for lack of evidence when critical elements of the crime can’t be proven
Seeking suppression of statements or physical evidence obtained in violation of Fourth or Fifth Amendment rights
Challenging unreliable witness testimony or expert reports through motions to strike

Beyond motions, an attorney’s negotiation skills can lead to reduced charges or alternative resolutions, such as probation in lieu of prison time. A strong track record will demonstrate both courtroom victories and favorable plea outcomes, showing a lawyer’s ability to adapt their strategy based on what works best for each client.

5. Review Client Testimonials and Reputation

Choosing the right attorney for felony charges means more than looking at credentials—it’s about trusting someone to guide you through one of the most stressful moments of your life. Client testimonials give you an unfiltered look at how a lawyer treats people under pressure, handles communication, and delivers results. By digging into firsthand accounts, you can separate firms that simply “talk the talk” from those that consistently “walk the walk.”

Read Client Testimonials for Responsiveness and Support

Start by browsing the stories on the Fayard Law Testimonials page. Look for recurring themes:

Quick, clear communication: Clients often praise attorneys who return calls or emails within hours and explain next steps in plain language.
Compassion under stress: Notice comments about feeling heard and understood—even when emotions ran high.
Tangible results: Testimonials that cite dismissed counts, reduced sentences, or favorable plea agreements reveal how strategies translate into real-world wins.

Pay special attention to any mention of bilingual services or video consultations, since these extras can make a big difference if your case depends on timely updates or language clarity.

Cross-Check Third-Party Reviews

No single platform tells the whole story, so widen your net:

Google Reviews: High star ratings plus detailed accounts often indicate consistent client satisfaction.
Avvo: Look for the attorney’s overall score, number of endorsements, and any client-posted reviews about professionalism and courtroom presence.
Yelp: While less legal-focused, Yelp can highlight how the firm handles customer service, billing questions, and office interactions.

As you scan these sites, watch for patterns. A handful of glowing reviews paired with zero follow-ups might signal paid testimonials, while a mix of praise and constructive criticism can feel more authentic. If you spot complaints—like unreturned calls or surprise fees—reach out to the firm directly to see how they respond. A willingness to address concerns can tell you just as much as a five-star score.

By combining in-house testimonials with third-party feedback, you’ll build a well-rounded view of an attorney’s reputation—so you can move forward with confidence that your defense team truly has your back.

6. Compare Free Consultations, Fees, and Payment Plans

Evaluate cost alongside the value of representation before you commit. Many attorneys offer a complimentary first meeting so you can get a sense of their approach, ask questions, and receive a preliminary strategy—without any obligation. After your free consultation, you should have a clearer picture of potential next steps, timeline, and fee structures. Compare two or three firms this way to see who offers the best mix of experience, responsiveness, and affordability.

Understand that felony defense fees vary widely based on the charge’s complexity, the evidence involved, and the attorney’s track record. Budgeting for your defense doesn’t mean automatically choosing the cheapest option; it means finding the solution that balances expertise with payment flexibility. Firms may offer:

Understand Fee Structures and Accessibility

Flat-fee agreements: A single, all-inclusive price for handling your case from arraignment through trial—a straightforward approach that avoids surprises.
Hourly billing: An hourly rate for work actually performed, which can make costs more transparent but may be harder to forecast.
Range expectations: On average, simple third-degree felonies might start around $2,000, while first-degree or capital cases can exceed $15,000 in total fees.
Payment plans: Spreading your cost over time, with some firms allowing deposits followed by monthly installments, so you aren’t paying a lump sum upfront.
Fee arbitration rights: If you ever have a billing dispute, Florida’s Fee Arbitration Program can step in to assess whether costs are reasonable.

Studies show roughly 80 percent of felony defendants struggle to afford private counsel, relying instead on public defenders or payment plans. Don’t let finances be a barrier: ask your prospective attorney whether they can tailor a payment schedule that keeps your defense on track without draining your savings.

Leverage Free Initial Consultations

Every free consultation is an opportunity to:

Gauge communication style: Are they listening first, then offering advice?
Test their strategy: Do they outline a clear plan for your specific charge?
Compare quotes: How does their fee estimate stack up against other firms?
Evaluate comfort level: Do you feel confident and respected?

Make a list of questions—about timelines, retainer terms, and case milestones—and bring your charging documents along. The more prepared you are, the sharper your comparisons will be. By the end of these meetings, you’ll not only have a fee estimate in hand but also the insights you need to choose the attorney best suited for your situation.

7. Confirm Bilingual, Flexible, and Client-Centric Services

Building a strong defense goes beyond courtroom tactics. You and your family need clear communication, reliable access, and a legal team that adapts to your schedule. When you’re facing a felony charge, every detail matters—even how and when you connect with your attorney. Here’s how to make sure your chosen law firm puts you first.

Verify Spanish-Language Support (“Se habla Español”)

If English isn’t your first language—or if a loved one feels more comfortable speaking Spanish—confirm that your attorney or their staff are truly bilingual. A simple “Se habla Español” sign in a lobby doesn’t guarantee fluency. During your free consultation, try switching to Spanish:

Are explanations just as clear and patient?
Does your attorney or paralegal grasp the legal nuance in your native tongue?

Language barriers can lead to misunderstandings about deadlines, evidence, or defense strategies. A bilingual attorney not only prevents miscommunication: they build trust. If your firm isn’t fully bilingual, ask if they provide professional interpreters or translated documents at no extra charge. That way, nothing gets “lost in translation” when your future is on the line.

Ask About Remote Consultations and 24/7 Availability

Criminal cases don’t just unfold between 9 AM and 5 PM. You may need updates late at night, or urgent legal advice over the weekend. Before you sign any agreement, clarify:

Does the attorney offer secure video consultations?
Can you reach your primary point of contact after hours via phone, text, or encrypted client portal?
Is there a dedicated team member responsible for day-to-day questions and scheduling?

A law firm’s flexibility shows how much they value your time and peace of mind. Video calls save you a trip to the office—especially important if you work odd shifts or have childcare needs. And knowing exactly who to call (or text) when you spot a new court date or receive a police notice can ease anxiety and prevent costly missteps.

By confirming genuine bilingual support, remote consultation options, and around-the-clock availability, you’ll ensure your defense team is as accessible and client-focused as possible. That level of service isn’t just convenient—it’s essential when every moment counts.

8. Prepare Thoroughly for Your Initial Consultation

Your initial meeting with a prospective attorney is more than just a face-to-face—it’s the launchpad for your entire defense. Showing up organized, informed, and equipped with the right information helps your attorney hit the ground running. It also demonstrates that you’re taking this process seriously, which can shape the tone of your representation from day one. Before you walk into that consultation room, set aside time to gather your thoughts, assemble key materials, and outline the people and evidence that matter most to your case.

Begin by reviewing your charging documents and arrest reports, so you know exactly what’s alleged and under which statutes you’re facing charges. Jot down any questions that come to mind—whether they’re about the timeline of events, potential defenses, or fee structures. Treat this meeting like a job interview for your attorney: you both need to see if it’s a good fit. The clearer you can articulate the facts, the better your lawyer can assess strategy, anticipate challenges, and estimate timelines.

Finally, remember that your consultation is confidential and cost-free. This is the time to be completely honest—omit nothing. Even details that seem irrelevant or embarrassing may prove critical when your lawyer investigates. With that trust established, let’s look at the practical steps for getting ready.

Craft a Detailed Timeline and Identify Witnesses

One of the best ways to bring clarity to your consultation is by mapping out a detailed, chronological account of the events in question. Start from the moment you first encountered law enforcement or learned of an investigation, and work forward to where things stand today. Include dates, times, locations, people present, and any actions taken by you or others. A clear timeline helps your attorney spot inconsistencies in the State’s version of events and identify gaps that can support defenses like alibi or procedural errors.

As you build your timeline, compile a list of everyone who witnessed key moments—friends, family members, coworkers, or even bystanders whose names and contact information you can track down. Witnesses can corroborate your story, challenge the prosecution’s narrative, or provide context for what happened. Note down phone numbers, email addresses, and any relevant notes on what each person saw or heard. The sooner your attorney can speak with these individuals, the stronger they can position your defense.

Secure Key Documents and Protect Your Rights

Gather every piece of documentation related to your case before the meeting:

Arrest reports, booking sheets, and bail or bond paperwork
Charging documents, search warrants, and court notices
Police body-cam photos, videos, or transcripts of statements
Correspondence from the prosecutor’s office, notices of hearings, and any letters or emails you’ve received

Having these materials on hand lets your attorney verify what’s been filed, identify any procedural missteps, and begin crafting motions if necessary.

While you prepare, resist the urge to broadcast details on social media or discuss your case with friends who aren’t part of the defense. Public comments—even private messages—can be subpoenaed and used against you. Save sensitive conversations for your attorney’s office or a secure client portal.

Lastly, mark every scheduled court date on your personal calendar and set reminders. Missing a hearing can result in a bench warrant, additional charges, or loss of bond. Demonstrating respect for deadlines and procedures not only protects your rights but also signals to the court and opposing counsel that you’re serious about your defense.

By investing time in these preparatory steps, you’ll make your initial consultation more productive—and give your attorney the best possible start in building a robust defense strategy.

9. Assess Communication Style and Personal Rapport

Your attorney isn’t just a hired gun in the courtroom—they’re your partner through a stressful, often confusing process. A solid working relationship hinges on trust, transparency, and a communication style that fits your needs. During your free consultations and early meetings, pay close attention to how your prospective lawyer listens, explains, and connects. If you don’t feel heard or respected, even the strongest legal strategy can fall flat under the pressure of poor collaboration.

Evaluate Responsiveness and Empathy

A defense case can move fast—sometimes changing course overnight—so responsiveness matters. Look for these signs:

• Positive indicators: Prompt replies to calls or emails, clear, jargon-free explanations of next steps, and a genuine interest in your concerns. An empathetic attorney will pause to ensure you understand each point and ask follow-up questions about your situation.
• Red flags: Vague answers, missed messages, or a tone that suggests they’re “too busy” for detailed conversations. If you get the sense that your calls are an imposition, that lawyer might not advocate aggressively when your case requires immediate action.

True empathy goes beyond politeness. It shows up when an attorney acknowledges the stress you’re under, sets realistic expectations, and offers reassurance without sugarcoating tough truths.

Clarify Your Primary Point of Contact

Court filings and hearings are only one piece of the puzzle—daily updates, scheduling, and paperwork often happen through paralegals or case managers. Before you sign a retainer:

• Ask who will handle your routine questions and how often you can expect status reports.
• Confirm whether you’ll speak directly to the lead attorney, a dedicated case coordinator, or rotate between staff members.
• Set ground rules: Will they text you for quick updates, send secure portal messages, or stick to scheduled calls?

Knowing exactly who to contact—and when—prevents confusion, missed deadlines, and frustration. It also ensures that critical information doesn’t get lost in a busy office, so you can focus on what matters most: building a strong defense.

10. Formalize the Attorney-Client Relationship and Plan Your Defense

Once you’ve zeroed in on the lawyer who ticks all the boxes—credentials, experience, communication style—it’s time to make it official and set the stage for your defense. This step binds both of you to shared goals, outlines how work will proceed, and ensures your rights and interests are protected at every turn. Don’t rush it: read every word of the agreement, ask questions, and be clear on what comes next. With paperwork out of the way, you and your attorney can dive into mapping out a strategy that’s tailored to your charge, your circumstances, and your desired outcome.

Review and Sign the Retainer Agreement

Your retainer agreement is more than just a formality—it’s the contract that defines the scope of representation and puts protective measures in writing. Before you sign:

Scope of services: Make sure the document spells out what the attorney will handle (arraignments, motions, trial preparation) and what falls outside the agreed fee.
Fee terms and payment schedule: Check whether billing is flat-fee, hourly, or blended, and confirm deadlines for deposits, installment payments, or any refundable retainers.
Confidentiality and privilege: Verify that all communications are covered by attorney-client privilege, and ask how documents and electronic correspondence are protected.
Termination and withdrawal rights: Understand under what circumstances either party can end the relationship—and what happens to your case if that occurs.

If anything seems vague or missing—say, a description of video consultation fees or interpreter services—bring it up now. Clarity upfront prevents misunderstandings down the road. Only when you’re comfortable with every clause should you sign and return the agreement to your attorney.

Establish a Defense Strategy and Timeline

With a signed retainer, your attorney will schedule a kickoff meeting to chart the course ahead. Expect to:

Outline investigation steps: Decide whether to enlist private investigators, forensic experts, or digital-data analysts; assign deadlines for interviewing witnesses and collecting physical evidence.
Plan motions and key filings: Set internal due dates for suppression motions, discovery requests, and any specialty motions relevant to your statute.
Mark court dates: Coordinate arraignment, pretrial conferences, hearings, and trial days on a shared calendar—complete with reminders to avoid costly no-shows.
Define client responsibilities: Clarify what you need to provide (cell-phone records, financial statements, character references) and how you’ll communicate new information or questions.

A written strategy and timeline help both you and your attorney stay aligned on priorities, prevent surprises, and keep the momentum moving toward resolution. As your case unfolds, revisit this plan regularly—updating deadlines, adding fresh leads, and anticipating the State’s next moves. A strong, living strategy makes the difference between reacting to charges and proactively steering your defense.

Taking The Next Step In Your Defense

You’ve learned how to identify your exact charge, vet credentials, assess experience, and compare fees—all critical moves in building a strong defense. Now it’s time to put those tips into action. Don’t wait for the next court date to slip by or for confusion to cloud your options. The sooner you partner with the right advocate, the more time they have to investigate, file key motions, and position you for the best possible outcome.

Michael Fayard combines firsthand insight from both sides of the courtroom with a genuine commitment to every client’s peace of mind. He offers a no-cost, no-obligation free consultation where he’ll review your case, outline next steps, and answer your questions in clear, straightforward terms. Whether you need español support, flexible payment plans, or the strategic edge that comes from a former prosecutor, Fayard Law is here to guide you.

Your future is too important to leave to chance. Reach out today—online or by phone—and take control of your defense. With a seasoned trial attorney in your corner, you’ll face your charges with confidence, clarity, and a clear plan of attack. Visit https://fayard-law.com now to schedule your free consultation with Michael Fayard and start building your defense right away.

Essential Tips For Hiring a Felony Defense Attorney