Sarasota criminal defense: understand the charge and the process

Daniel D. Nawara represents people facing criminal and DUI matters in Sarasota, Manatee County and surrounding communities. The right starting point is the actual charge, upcoming deadlines and evidence. A free consultation can clarify the proposed representation and immediate next steps.

Choose a topic above or explore the guides below. Court notices and case-specific orders control your obligations; general information does not replace advice about your own circumstances.

Misdemeanor charges

Florida generally permits up to one year of incarceration for a first-degree misdemeanor and up to 60 days for a second-degree misdemeanor, subject to offense-specific provisions. A misdemeanor can still affect employment, licensing and a criminal record.

Counsel can review the elements, available evidence and any eligible diversion or negotiated option. Start with battery, petit theft or resisting without violence.

Probation violations

An alleged violation can place the original sentence back before a judge. Review the supervision order, violation affidavit and compliance records. Technical allegations and new criminal charges can involve different issues, and release is not guaranteed.

Read the probation-violation defense guide.

DUI and driver-license issues

A DUI arrest may involve a criminal case and a separate administrative suspension. The license-review deadline generally runs 10 days from issuance of the suspension notice. A future court date does not extend that deadline.

Explore Sarasota DUI defense, Bradenton DUI defense and the 10-day rule.

Juvenile charges

A juvenile allegation raises questions about detention, school, diversion, court involvement and possible long-term consequences. The child’s age, offense and history matter. Parents should preserve notices and discuss representation promptly.

Explore juvenile defense.

Probation violations 

In Florida, a violation of probation occurs where a defendant substantially and willfully violates the conditions of a probationary sentence.  Probation proceedings differ significantly from ordinary criminal cases due to a lower standard of proof and the lack of many procedural and constitutional protections.

If you have been accused of violating probation or community control, you may have legal defenses to dismiss the charges or minimize the potential sentence. Thus, hiring a skillful attorney is crucial. 

Felony and other criminal defense

Felony exposure depends on the offense degree, specific statute, sentencing rules and criminal history. Counsel can evaluate the State’s proof, potential motions and the consequences of any proposed resolution.

Read about felony defense, drug allegations and domestic-violence allegations.

Florida law and official resources

• Section 775.082: offense classifications and maximum terms

• Section 948.06: probation violations

• Section 322.2615: administrative DUI license review

Updated September 25, 2026. General information, not legal advice. The law applicable to your case depends on the offense date and circumstances.