Miami Criminal Defense Attorney

Serving Clients Throughout Miami, Miami Beach, And All Of Miami-Dade County

Being arrested and dealing with the criminal justice system without a dedicated advocate by your side can be overwhelming. Because a conviction may have serious consequences, not the least of which are imprisonment, fines, and a tarnished reputation, it is crucial to have bold and aggressive legal representation. Valiente, Carollo and McElligott PLLC is a premier criminal defense firm serving clients in Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, West Palm Beach and throughout the state of Florida. Well-versed in the applicable criminal statutes and rules of criminal procedure, we are highly regarded for successfully trying cases in state and federal court. We offer each client knowledge, compassion, and aggressive legal representation. When your freedom is in jeopardy, our legal team will work tirelessly to protect your rights and restore your good name.

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Florida Criminal Charges

Our criminal defense attorneys routinely handle a wide range of state misdemeanor and felony charges, including:

Drug Crimes

Although the use of prescription medical marijuana is legal in Florida under limited circumstances, narcotics laws continue to be strictly enforced. Our experienced legal team routinely handles state and federal drug charges ranging from possession of marijuana and distribution, trafficking, or manufacturing controlled substances to prescription fraud. READ MORE >

Theft Crimes

Taking property that does not belong to you with the intent to temporarily or permanently deprive the owner of it is referred to as theft. We have successfully defended clients against a wide range of theft charges such as shoplifting, petit theft, grand theft, grand theft of a vehicle, and dealing in stolen property. READ MORE >

Violent Crimes

Generally, the use of physical force or a weapon to cause injury, or the threat of injury, to another person,is considered a violent crime. In particular, such crimes include assault, battery, robbery, domestic violence, kidnapping, sexual assault, weapons offenses, manslaughter, and murder. Because such violent offenses are often charged as felonies, convictions can lead to more than a year of imprisonment, lengthy probation terms, substantial fines and mandatory rehabilitation or counseling. READ MORE >

Domestic Violence

Acts or threats of violence against a person with whom the accused has or had a close relationship — current or former spouses, parents, children, and romantic partners fit under the umbrella of domestic violence. Punishment may include imprisonment, fines, probation, and/or an extended stay away order. Our attorneys have extensive experience suited to craft defense strategies for individuals accused of domestic violence. READ MORE >

Juvenile Crimes

We routinely handle juvenile offenses such as drug charges, theft and property crimes, traffic violations, DUI and other alcohol-related offenses. Our trustworthy criminal attorneys will work to protect the rights, future and well-being of your child. READ MORE >

Sex Crimes

Sex crimes involve subjecting another person to sexual contact without that person’s consent or engaging in some other form of sexual misconduct. We defend clients against sex crime charges ranging from indecent exposure and child pornography to prostitution and sexual battery. Because a conviction can lead to a lengthy imprisonment, MDSO probation, involuntary civil commitment, and mandatory registration as a sexual offender or sexual predator, it is crucial to have an experienced criminal defense attorney in your corner if you are charged with this type of offense. READ MORE >

DUI

Because driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol is inherently dangerous and contributes to numerous car accident fatalities each year, Florida DUI laws are strictly enforced. In fact, you may also face DUI charges for operating a motor vehicle while impaired by prescription or over-the-counter medication. While good people make mistakes, a DUI conviction can still lead to significant fines, a license suspension, and even imprisonment. Whether this is your first offense or you have prior convictions, there are numerous defenses we can assert against DUI charges. READ MORE >

Gun Crimes

Despite Florida’s storied tradition of gun ownership, hunting, sportsmanship and firearm advocacy, the state’s gun laws are strictly enforced. For most gun-related charges such as carrying a concealed firearm without the proper permit, improper exhibition of a firearm, or punishment enhancements for using a firearm in a crime, punishments such as imprisonment and probation can be very lengthy (10-20-Life). READ MORE >

White Collar Crime

This category of nonviolent crimes is committed through deceit and motivated by financial gain. White collar crime includes Medicare or Medicaid fraud, embezzlement, extortion, forgery, bribery, falsifying business records, insurance fraud, money laundering, credit card fraud, criminal tax fraud, mortgage fraud, and identity theft. READ MORE >

Defending Criminal Charges In Florida

If you are under investigation or have been charged with a state or federal crime, turn to Valiente, Carollo and McElligott PLLC. As criminal defense lawyers who have worked as public defenders and handled cases ranging from speeding tickets to capital murder, we know the importance of the decision you’re making when selecting a lawyer. That decision can have life-changing consequences and should never be taken lightly.

A conviction can not only lead to imprisonment, fines and reputational harm, but also loss of your right to vote, own a weapon, or hold a professional license. It could also impede employment prospects and make it difficult to rent an apartment in the future. It can affect your ability to receive state or federal benefits, government assistance, and even scholarships or financial aid for college. Finally, if you are not a U.S. citizen, you may also jeopardize your immigraton status and face deportation.

Our criminal defense attorneys believe that anyone accused of a crime is innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law and will leverage their legal knowledge and litigation skills to defend you. By conducting a thorough investigation, collecting evidence, identifying and interviewing witnesses, and tapping our respected network of private investigators and criminal experts if necessary, we will work to build a successful defense.

Unlike many law firms that typically advise clients to quickly accept plea bargains, we will explore all of your options. We will fully explain all of your rights, consider all possible defenses, and work to win an acquittal. While trial is always a route our attorneys are eager to take, we understand the risk of loss may not always make this possible. We listen to our clients, so no matter the avenue you decide to take on your case, we will work to ensure your outcome is fair and protects your future aspirations.


Featured Testimonial


Words cannot express the gratitude and respect I have for Mr. Valiente. He believed in us from the first day and persisted until our case was dismissed. He is the very best in his field and an amazing human being.

Criminal Defense Attorney
5 / 5

Federal Criminal Defense

Federal criminal charges are serious because convictions typically lead to imprisonment and cost you the loss of many of your civil rights. Our legal team handles cases involving federal crimes such as:

  • Drug crimes
  • Medicare or Medicaid fraud
  • Insurance fraud
  • Bank and securities fraud
  • Credit card fraud
  • Tax fraud
  • Firearms and weapons charges
  • Cyber crimes

It is worth noting the difference between the potential outcomes in state and federal criminal cases, particularly regarding sentencing. In the federal court system, statutory guidelines dictate minimum and maximum sentences. Moreover, judges are given wide latitude in meting out punishments, while prosecutors often seek the highest possible penalty, putting defendants at a disadvantage. We have the skills and resources to level the playing field and preserve your freedom and your rights.

Cases

State of Florida v. “RM”

Our client was facing four different charges. These included armed robbery with a firearm, armed sexual battery with a firearm, and two counts of accessory after the fact. He was facing a life sentence for two of the four charges. Our founding attorney, Antonio F. Valiente, Esq., aggressively fought for our client’s rights in front of a jury trial. We used effective legal strategies and extensive preparation for the case. In the end, we were able to obtain a not guilty verdict on all counts. The verdict was delivered on February 16, 2018.

State of Florida v. “IC”

Charges: (1) Organized Scheme to Defraud ($20,000 – $50,000); and 3 counts of Filing a False & Fraudulent Insurance Claim. Client is a medical doctor accused of conspiring with her office manager to commit insurance fraud. She was facing up to 30 years in prison as well as losing her license to practice medicine. After extensive investigatory work and pre-trial motions we were able to resolve the case to a minor second degree misdemeanor, no jail time, no fines, and perhaps as important as everything else, no effect on our client’s medical license or her ability to earn her living.

Antonio Valiente took my case earlier in his career, when he was a Public Defender. He quickly took me from a place of fear and desperation, to a place of faith, trust and confidence. Now that my case has been…

- Audrey R.

Best attorneys. They save my son from doing 15 years in prison. Won at trial twice - not guilty verdicts. Thanking God above for Valiente, Carollo and McElligott PLLC Firm.

- Tracy T.

I had a wonderful experience with Mr. Valiente and his assistant Melissa. They're always available when you need help and are always willing to listen to you and assist you in what they can. If you need help with any…

- Juan M.

I highly recommend Valiente, Carollo and McElligott PLLC. I had a great trial and a successful plea deal to get my case dropped & dismissed once I finished my programs. Thank you Antonio for being my lawyer and to Gabriela…

- Jesus M.

Very professional and very detailed. Takes the time to work every in and out of the case. Highly recommended

- Jeff G.

This law firm is absolutely amazing Nicole made me feel like family she was there for me no matter what time of day. Everything was on a time line and they made sure that everything got done!! I cannot thank…

- Gina T.

Antonio took my criminal case & handled it better than any of my previous attorneys. He always answered the phone, even when he was in court. And if I didn’t get in touch with him he called me back quickly.…

- Kizzle G.

this man gave me my life back. he's an excellent lawyer. if it wasn't for him i would be in prison right now. i would send everyone and anyone i know to him. because of him i was found not…

- Ralph

I feel like words will never be able to express the gratitude I hold for Mr. Valiente's aid in my time of need. He believed in my innocence and fought to protect it, putting everything on the line to fully…

- Daniela R.

Extremely knowledgeable and professional; were happy to help even during the weekend and after hours. They definitely stand out from other firms because they don't see their clients as a $ cheque and truly care for them. I strongly recommend…

- Mina M.

I called Mr Valiente on a Saturday, I will never forget. Not only was he there for me to listen to me but he took his own free time to answer my doubts and questions. In a moment of despair…

- Lisette

I call my review the man standing, because I remember a lost boy, in a confused life. Standing in a world that was ready to consume him. I remember waking up with palms that that were drenched with sweat. Loud…

- Watson

Hello viewers, my name is Devin and I was one of Mr. Valiente’s client. Well where do I start… First off I want to thank god for bringing Mr. Valiente into my life and taking over my case. I’m here…

- Devin

Words cannot express the gratitude and respect I have for Mr. Valiente. He believed in us from the first day and persisted until our case was dismissed. He is the very best in his field and an amazing human being.

- Nury F.

Very grateful for your service, professionalism, and kindness. I have no words to express everything I feel. God bless you infinitely. Thank you for a very excellent service and even making me feel like family. If I ever need a…

- Carmen

Mr. Valiente provided excellent service, very professional and courteous. I felt like he actually cared about me and my family. It was a year-long case and he was on top of everything from the get go. Constant updates, was readily…

- Orlando R.

I was extremely impressed by the great experience I had with Valiente, Carollo and McElligott PLLC. From the moment when I made my appointment, the follow up reminder via text to the perfect clear explanation of my situation and case.…

- Ricardo B.

My name is Abel and I want to give real testament to the good performance and work of attorney Mr. Antonio Valiente. I was represented by him and thanks to his tenacity and persistence in seeking truth & justice, I…

- Abel

Great Lawyer. Professional Services. My case was very complicated Mr. Valiente encouraged me from the beginning and finally my case was dismissed. Definitely I will recommend Valiente, Carollo and McElligott PLLC. Thanks!!!!

- Martin

Amazing experience and super professionals

- Paloma

I blindly hired Antonio Valiente based on the reviews I read online. I was facing felony charges which if there would have been a conviction I would have lost my ability to proceed in my career and support my family.…

- Steve

Good man, very professional staff. Gets the job done.

- Imandra

Attorney Valiente provided exceptional service and was thorough in the court room. Even with two probation violations he was able to get me off probation early. I would definitely recommend him.

- Marc

His law firm gave me the best advice to handle my case in the right way that saved me time, money and hassle.

- Diego

A dear friend of mine and colleague of Mr. Valiente referred me to him. He took my case immediately. I didn't have to be calling him constantly, he kept me informed at all times on the progress of my case…

- Amy

Divorce is never a fun thing to go through. During my divorce process, I couldn't have had any better support than Antonio Valiente. Antonio not only helped me by explaining what needs to be done but I could see that…

- Ramina

He is an excellent lawyer committed to his cases. I recommend him! Thanks for everything!

- Ruben

I first hired Antonio Valiente he's an amazing lawyer. His attention to detail and great advice was second to none. He is an excellent person to bounce ideas off. His secretary Estephanie Escobar it's the sweetest person, She answered all…

- Tiffany

I'm over ecstatic about the way Antonio handled my husband's case. My husband was facing life and now he's free. We want to say thank you for your help.

- Zetta

Great service. I called several law offices this day and no one responded to us as fast as Valiente did. It was after hours as well. Did a phone consultation and he immediately knew what I needed and knew how…

- Letty

Mr. Valiente was great. He handled our criminal case better than we could have expected. He is professional, and we never had any problems. He always consulted with us and let us know what was going on.

- Doug K.

Mr. Valiente from the first phone call, has provided excellent service and knowledgeable service to reduce my charges from a DUI conviction to a Reckless driving. He maintained a positive attitude which calmed my nerves through this process. Mr. Valiente’s…

- Jason

Antonio took my criminal case & handled it better than any of my previous attorneys. He always answered the phone, even when he was in court. And if I didn’t get in touch with him he called me back quickly.…

- Kizzie G.

Mr. Valiente spoke to me and my daughter for over two hours, he was on point with all of our questions his advice helped us with our case. Our case was settled but I believe it was because of his…

- Connie

I am very satisfied with how Mr. Valiente handled my case we resolved quick he. He kept me informed and I got the best results I could’ve possibly got thank you very much.

- James

I came to Mr. Valiente on a referral from a family member. All I have to say is the man is superb in the field of family law & is well respected by his peers. If I ever need another…

- Ricardo D.

I have chosen Mr. Antonio Valiente because of a friend’s referral. He took over my divorce and my immigration case. Everything ran as expected. Every time I needed him, he was there for me. Even after working hours. Very attentive,…

- Mateus M.

Antonio Valiente is a thoughtful and hardworking attorney. He resolved my son's case in the nest possible way. He kept me informed and involved during the process. He is talented, knowledgeable, respectful, and I would recommend him to any others…

- Wanda

Very professional, easy to reach and personally speak too. The staff in the firm is amazing and I really appreciate his hard work and amazing outcome of my case. Very happy and would highly recommend his services to anyone who…

- Tony O.

Took care of me great, resolved my case exactly like I wanted, and was always available at all times. Even night time & weekends he always answered the phone. I was expecting my divorce to last forever, but Antonio handled…

- Daniela C.

Mr. Valiente represented my boyfriend in a drug case. As we all tend to assume a private paid for attorney would be a better suit because PD’s are usually so busy with all these other cases. But this case was…

- Elizabeth L.

FAQs

If you’ve been arrested, are facing serious criminal charges, have been injured in an accident, or are dealing with an emotional family law matter, you likely have many questions. At Valiente, Carollo and McElligott PLLC, we understand that many of our clients have never dealt with the legal system before and are concerned about the process. Our Miami attorneys are here to answer your questions, and help you navigate the legal system from start to finish. Browse common legal questions below and contact our firm to schedule your initial consultation with our team.

What Should I Do After Being Arrested?

If you are arrested for a crime, you have the right to remain silent. This means that you do not have to speak with police, prosecutors, or anyone other than your own attorney. Keeping silent is wise, as many individuals unintentionally implicate themselves or say things that are then used against them by the prosecution at a later date. You should also reach out to a Miami criminal defense attorney as soon as possible to discuss your case. Whether you have been falsely accused or you plan on pleading guilty, an attorney will have the experience and legal knowledge needed to help you understand your options and devise a sound plan of action.

What Are The Penalties For A DUI?

If you are convicted of a DUI, you will be facing serious penalties that often carry long-lasting repercussions. The exact penalties vary depending on a number of factors, including the level of intoxication, any prior DUI arrests or convictions, and whether an accident was caused. A felony DUI can result in sentencing in a state correctional facility, whereas a misdemeanor DUI can lead to jail time in a county facility. Most DUI convictions result in the loss of your driver’s license, mandatory community service, alcohol counseling courses, probation, increases to your auto insurance, and more.

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