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Criminal Defense

Criminal Lawyer in Jacksonville, FL

Preferred Florida Defense Attorneys

When you’ve been arrested, accused, or are under investigation for a criminal matter, you must trust a firm that will handle your case with nonjudgmental and compassionate representation. We proudly serve clients throughout Duval, St. Johns, Nassau, Putnam, and Clay Counties, as well as in Jacksonville Beach and Atlantic Beach, taking each case seriously.

Contact our trusted criminal defense lawyer in Jacksonville at (904) 615-8950 to schedule a confidential consultation.

Now Is Not the Time to Take a Risk or Go in Alone

From the moment you are arrested, you are vulnerable to being stuck with serious consequences, whether or not you actually committed the crime in question.

The painful consequences of criminal charges and accusations vary based on the crime, but generally include:

  • Thousands of dollars in fines
  • Years in jail or prison
  • Job loss
  • Reduced employment opportunities
  • Loss of professional licenses
  • Threats to your parental rights or status as a custodial parent
  • Losing your immigration status
  • Increased insurance premiums (for DUI and traffic violations)

These are just a few of the consequences you could face if you are charged with and convicted of a crime. You can’t afford to go alone, and you can’t afford not to get in touch with a Jacksonville criminal defense attorney immediately.

Having a skilled legal advocate early in the process can make a difference in how your case is investigated, what evidence is presented, and what options are available to you in court. A local criminal attorney who regularly appears in Duval County court, at the Duval County Jail first appearance hearings, and in nearby St. Johns and Clay County courts will understand how prosecutors typically handle different charges and what alternatives may be available to resolve your case.

Why Choose Us?

Our lead attorney, Kate Mesic, is a former prosecutor who has tried many cases. She has been in the local legal community for decades and is familiar with various judges and prosecutors. We know how the system works and can provide you with a realistic assessment of the case and how to proceed.

Our criminal defense lawyers in Jacksonville aim to provide excellent customer service, which is why we provide thorough, timely communication. If you call us and we miss your call, we will return your call the same day.

Because we take a hands-on approach to every file, we carefully review police reports, body camera footage, and any available witness statements before advising you on your options. As a Jacksonville criminal defense lawyer team that knows the local procedures in the Duval County Courthouse and surrounding county courthouses, we can walk you through what to expect at arraignment, pretrial conferences, and any hearings so that you are never surprised by the process.

What To Expect in Your Criminal Case

When you first contact our office, we begin by gathering basic information about your charges, your background, and where your case is pending, such as the Duval County Courthouse or the county courthouse in Clay or Nassau County. We then review any paperwork you received, including the arrest report and court date notice, so we can explain the immediate next steps and important deadlines. Our goal is to replace uncertainty with a clear plan so you understand how a criminal defense attorney Jacksonville residents trust will guide you from the first appearance through potential resolution.

As your case moves forward, we will investigate the facts, request discovery from the State Attorney’s Office, and evaluate whether there are legal issues that could support a motion to suppress evidence or reduce the charges. We keep you informed about plea offers, diversion or rehabilitation programs, and the possible consequences of going to trial so that you can make informed choices at every stage. Throughout this process, we remain focused on your long-term future in Jacksonville and the surrounding communities, not just the short-term outcome of a single court date.

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Client Testimonials

    "I am so grateful that Kate has been in our lives at this very, very difficult and dangerous time."
    I cannot say enough good things about Kate Mesic's professional and personal knowledge of the subject and willingness to pursue all avenues to solve this terrible problem for my family. Not only is she extremely organized and logical in her thinking and her approach, but she is able to motivate and encourage her clients in the most depressing situations, able to help them see exit strategies from overwhelming circumstances, and can somehow enable self-help for the clients. I am so grateful that Kate has been in our lives at this very, very difficult and dangerous time.
    - Juliette
    "Thank you Kate for all your hard work on this project and the many other contracts I have brought to you or needed you to create!"
    Gratitude #7 boosts the great legal work of Kate Mesic with the Law Office of Kate Mesic. Kate was a wonderful resource to me as she reviewed and advised me on the real estate purchase agreement, mortgage loan contract, contractor's agreement, and produced a comprehensive rental agreement allowing me to rent out my previous office space. Kate is extremely bright, prompt to respond and always provides the right advice to me. She carefully explains everything in a way that I can understand. If you are a small business owner in Jacksonville, FL I highly recommend you to meet Kate. Thank you Kate for all your hard work on this project and the many other contracts I have brought to you or needed you to create!
    - Kathee
    "She is proactive and does the best job possible."
    Kate helped me with both of my cases regarding my DWI and my felony possession, as well as the expungement of the former. She was extremely efficient with the court and the filings for my cases. She worked out the best deal with the prosecutor. She was also so helpful guiding me through the nuances of my cases, along with helping me understand everything that needed to be done to get these filed and closed. Kate is an amazing lawyer, as well as an amazing person. She is proactive and does the best job possible.
    - Ally
    "We would like to thank you so much for getting us through our stressful situation."
    We would highly recommend Kate Mesic if you need a lawyer. She is a true professional and very knowledgeable . We appreciate your help so much. Her assistant, Ellen, was fabulous in the courtroom that day. We would like to thank you so much for getting us through our stressful situation. Deborah and Tom
    - Deborah and Tom Mahoney
    "With proficiency and skill she pursued our interests with great results We highly recommend Ms. Mesic."
    We recently had an issue with a contractor/business that did not perform their work to the expectation to which they had agreed. We contacted Kate Mesic, Esq. who was very understanding of our dilemma and was quite willing to work with us. She did recover from the contractor the funds required to correct the poor work. Ms. Mesic was very understanding of our concerns, gave us a frank and honest opinion of the various outcomes, and represented us in the most professional and honest way. With proficiency and skill she pursued our interests with great results We highly recommend Ms. Mesic.
    - Former Client
    "Words cannot adequately express my gratitude for Kate and her team."
    I am eternally grateful for her professional expertise and I recommend her and her team unequivocally.
    - Peri-Anne
    "She was dedicated to my case, always kept me informed each step of the way, and genuinely cared about the outcome."
    On two separate occasions I have hired Mrs. Mesic to represent me criminal charges. The first was a high fine/substantial point speeding ticket, and the second was a criminal citation for driving while license suspended. In both instances Mrs. Mesic was able to get the charges dismissed with no penalties. She was dedicated to my case, always kept me informed each step of the way, and genuinely cared about the outcome. I would highly recommend her to anyone going through legal issues.
    - Ray
    "I would recommend her without reservation."
    I know know Kate personally and professionally. Unfortunately I was involved in a 3rd DUI (over 36 yrs time period). Obviously I was in a very precarious situation. She gave excellent advice/council to me which I followed. I believe I received the BEST possible outcome from this difficult position. No jail time, lowest fines applicable, and early release from probation. She was available by phone, e-mail or in person as much as I needed her. All contacts were returned, something rare in any business! I would recommend her without reservation. Professional excellence, and exceptional personal treatment.
    - Ken

What Sets Our Firm Apart

  • Excellent Communication & Updates
  • Understanding of the Courts & Common Tactics
  • Knowledgeable & Comprehensive Legal Advocacy
  • A Legacy of Positive Outcomes for Our Clients
  • A Wide Range of Professional Legal Experience
  • Commitment to Ensuring You Are Treated Fairly

Contact Us Today

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