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Panella Law Firm Accepts Cases Throughout Florida
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results
for our clients

MAN FACING 22 YEARS IN PRISON IS CLEARED OF ALL CHARGES

“Never judge a book by its cover.” My client was arrested on four aggressively serious charges: Felony Armed Possession of Cannabis, Felony Possession of Cannabis, Felony Grand Theft, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. He was facing a maximum of 26 years in prison.

He is also 20 years old, currently serving our country honorably in the Army, has a spotless record, and was home on leave when the alleged events took place.

FELONY TO CIVIL CITATION

My client was charged with the very serious crime of Sale and Delivery of Cocaine. In Florida, no matter how small the amount or form of “cocaine” or other relatively scheduled substance, this accusation is a second-degree felony punishable by up to 15 years in prison. After 8 months of pouring through videos, filing motions, setting the case for trial, and working with the State, it was determined that the case against my client could not be proved. He was not arrested at the scene, nor depicted in any videos regarding the incident. I give serious kudos to an ethical Assistant State Attorney who recognized how important her role was. The charges against this guy with a bright full life ahead of him have been dropped.

MAN FACING 15 YEARS IN PRISON IS CLEARED OF ALL CHARGES

My client was charged with the very serious crime of Sale and Delivery of Cocaine. In Florida, no matter how small the amount or form of “cocaine” or other relatively scheduled substance, this accusation is a second-degree felony punishable by up to 15 years in prison. After 8 months of pouring through videos, filing motions, setting the case for trial, and working with the State, it was determined that the case against my client could not be proved. He was not arrested at the scene, nor depicted in any videos regarding the incident. I give serious kudos to an ethical Assistant State Attorney who recognized how important her role was. The charges against this guy with a bright full life ahead of him have been dropped.

KICKED OUT OF PRETRIAL DIVERSION; CHARGES DISMISSED ANYWAY

This one is frustrating. My client was charged with a misdemeanor in April of 2017. She had never been in trouble before and qualified for a 6 month diversion program (upon successful completion the charge gets dismissed). It took until August for the court to sign off on it. She did everything they asked her to do: constant drug testing, many community service hours, reporting to her diversion officer, paid over $1,000.00 in fees, and even attended classes. After she completed everything, she couldn’t afford the $30.00 for an unexpected (4th) drug test that was announced the day she reported for completion of the program. She told her officer that she would try to get the money to do it, and in fact did complete the test the following day (with good results), but was kicked out of the program anyway. 

INJUNCTION DISMISSED

My client found himself served with an injunction (restraining order) from his former wife a month before Christmas. This meant he was restricted from doing many things, but perhaps most importantly, he couldn’t attend his daughter’s Christmas program at school. The allegations were baseless, and ahead of the Christmas program we were able to amend the injunction to allow dad to attend. As a late Christmas present, the injunction was voluntarily dismissed through negotiation with opposing counsel. No more injunction, no more restraining order. Thank goodness. Just in time for the new year.

WOMAN CLEARED OF CHARGES FOR UNDERAGE DRINKING

This 19 year old girl with no history was tailgating with her friends at an on campus UCF football game (Go Knights!). She was charged with a criminal offense for taking one sip of a beer (it is still unclear whether she actually drank or not). The police even made her pose for a picture holding a can of beer to solidify their case. She complied with all demands. After case workup and presentation to the prosecutor, as well as completion of community service hours, the case against her is now dismissed, she maintains no criminal history on her record, and she can continue with her studies without issue.

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panella law firm

Top orlando criminal defense lawyers

When your life collides with the criminal justice system, protect your freedom by reaching out to our top Orlando criminal defense lawyers who will fight for you, your family, and your future. There’s too much at stake for you to try to defend yourself against criminal charges. Get the help you need from criminal defense lawyers in Orlando you can trust.

Everyone facing criminal charges is innocent until proven guilty. The prosecution must also prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt. Our criminal defense lawyers can investigate your case and may find an effective defense that could result in dismissed charges, a favorable plea bargain agreement, or a reduced sentence.

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orlando self-defense lawyers

if your actions are justified, charges should be dropped or reduced

If you stood up for yourself after being unlawfully threatened and are now being prosecuted, you may be able to claim self-defense under Florida’s stand-your-ground law. This legal statute gives people the right to use force to protect themselves if they believe they are in imminent danger of being seriously hurt or killed by another person. This includes deadly force.

Depending on the facts of your case and applicable law, there could be many defenses to an assault, battery or even homicide charge, including that you acted in self-defense. Self-defense in a criminal case is considered an affirmative defense. You wouldn’t deny you used force. You would admit you used it but that you acted lawfully.

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There are three situations where self-defense may be a defense:
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Your actions were reasonably necessary to prevent being imminently killed or injured.

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You acted reasonably to prevent the imminent commission of a forcible felony.

This includes many crimes, including murder, manslaughter, sexual battery, carjacking, home invasion robbery, robbery, and burglary. It covers aggravated assault and stalking as well as any other felony involving the use or threat of physical force or violence against anyone.

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You acted reasonably to protect another from imminent death, great bodily harm, or the use of unlawful force by the other party.

If you were involved in an incident where you used self-defense, talk to our self-defense lawyers to learn about your legal options. Don’t leave your future to chance. Leave the legal strategy to us.

As long as you weren’t engaged in criminal activity and were in a place where you had a right to be,
stand-your-ground law may apply to your case.

Our Orlando criminal defense lawyers will examine the circumstances involved and fight for you in a self-defense claim.

Our Orlando criminal defense lawyers will examine the circumstances involved and fight for you in a self-defense claim.

Call us today to learn how we can help you at (407) 602-6559.
Our Orlando criminal defense lawyers will examine the circumstances involved and fight for you in a self-defense claim.
our
track record
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Mr. Panella was an incredible attorney to have during my divorce. He made a difficult time much easier with his professionalism, clear communication, and genuine care.

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– Abby S.
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Where do I begin?! As a ‘law abiding citizen’ for all of my 40 years on earth, I never thought I’d be accused of a 2nd degree felony. Even more over, charged with ‘Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon’! As someone with a lot to LOSE, I knew I had to FIGHT! I just didn’t know how.

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– T M.
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If you’re looking for a law firm that combines professionalism, expertise, and true compassion for their clients, this is the one. I’m incredibly grateful for Michael and his team for their incredible help with a dear friend and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them to anyone.

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– Adam C.
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Incredibly skilled, responsive, and genuinely care about his clients. Our friend was very supported and well informed throughout the entire process. Absolutely recommend!

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– Aida C.
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Meet Our Team
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Michael Panella

Managing Partner

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Huda Saleh

Attorney at Law

Todd Scholl

Todd Scholl

Attorney at Law

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why hire an experienced
criminal defense lawyer

we fight to secure the best outcome
in your case

Punishments in Florida criminal cases can be severe. Sentences are based upon the specific crime you’re accused of committing, the facts surrounding it, and whether you have prior arrests and convictions. Depending on your circumstances and which attorneys represents you, your charges may be dismissed or reduced and you may avoid a criminal sentence or limit what you face.

what might criminal defense lawyers in orlando prevent?

You may face prison time, probation, fines, restitution, and home confinement, but that’s only the beginning. With a criminal conviction, you may lose your job or find it difficult to get hired; landlords may reject you when you try to rent a home; you could lose a professional license or be unable to obtain one. If a sex-related crime is involved, you may be listed on a sex crime registry for the public to see.
other ways our lawyers help you

Our clients always take center stage in our legal battles. What is personal to you, is personal to us. Sometimes this includes a difficult family law situation, securing a second chance at justice, or protecting your reputation. No matter what legal help you need, the Panella Law Firm is here to help you and your family. These issues won’t just go away by themselves. You should aggressively address them, put them behind you, and get on with living your life, knowing you need not be concerned about them any longer. Whatever your legal problem or simply because you need results – Call the Panella Law Firm.

Family Law Concerns

We know that legal problems within families are highly stressful. Rely on our firm to work compassionately with you when you experience a difficult divorce, a child custody issue, or other complex dispute. No matter what the situation, you can count on our skilled family lawyers to stand up for your best interests.

Criminal Appeals in Orlando, FL

A criminal charge can follow you for the rest of your life. It can affect your reputation, your employment, and even your family life. In some cases, you may be able to have your criminal record sealed or expunged to restrict who can see it. Our criminal defense lawyers in Orlando can advise you about sealing or expungement in your case.

Criminal Expungement in Orlando

A criminal charge can follow you for the rest of your life. It can affect your reputation, your employment, and even your family life. In some cases, you may be able to have your criminal record sealed or expunged to restrict who can see it. Our criminal defense lawyers in Orlando can advise you about sealing or expungement in your case.

Get in touch with Panella Law Firm
Get in touch with Panella Law Firm

Hiring the best attorneys for you and your case may be the smartest
decision you ever made.

Get in touch with Panella Law Firm

Hiring the best attorneys for you and your case may be the smartest
decision you ever made.

panella law firm

we can discuss your case, how the law may apply, and the best approaches you should take

Being accused of a crime is a serious matter. You can boost your chances of the best outcome by working with a highly reputable Orlando criminal defense attorneys. Having a seasoned criminal defense lawyer fighting for you can make the difference in your case.

No matter the crime you are accused of, our Orlando criminal defense lawyers will work in your best interests. As seasoned criminal defense lawyers, Panella Law Firm has secured positive resolutions for thousands of people prosecuted for a wide variety of misdemeanor and felony crimes.

When you face criminal prosecution, you may feel frightened and confused. Having the right criminal defense lawyer on your side can ease your anxiety and stress.

we can discuss your case, how the law may apply, and the best approaches you should take
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contact our skilled criminal defense attorneys in orlando

Our attorneys at Panella Law Firm have the experience you can trust, they will listen to your side of the story, fight hard for you and your family, and always give you the respect you deserve. They are passionate about achieving justice for people accused of criminal wrongdoing.

  • Our knowledgeable criminal defense lawyers deeply understand Florida’s justice system. We will stop at nothing to get you the best results possible.
  • An experienced defense attorney can make the difference between jail time and walking free. We have a long track record of success in delivering positive outcomes to clients.
  • Whether you are facing prosecution, appealing a conviction, or want to wipe your record clean, you can count on our well-rounded law firm to zealously advocate for you.
contact our skilled criminal defense attorneys in orlando
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