20+ YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
Award-Winning Criminal
Defense Firm Serving
Ocala And All Of
Central Florida
Award-Winning Criminal
Defense Firm Serving
Ocala And All Of
Central Florida
Click Here forFREE CASE REVIEW
OR
Click Here to CALL NOW
Hablamos Español

Criminal Defense Lawyers, Ocala FL
People make life-defining mistakes that they regret bitterly afterward. Or, they’re wrongfully accused or investigated for a crime they didn’t do. If you or a loved one is in a similar situation, the first smart thing to do is get in touch with an expert attorney. Contacting Ocala criminal attorneys for legal advice is preferable before being arrested by law enforcement officials or receiving a “Notice to Appear.” Knowledgeable legal counselors have the expertise to guide you on the best options to pursue, preserve your rights and freedom, and secure your future.
Understanding the Complexities of the Justice System is Hard for a Regular Person
The justice system is complex, and understanding laws and regulations can be next to impossible for a regular person. Ensure that you get a favorable outcome and avoid a conviction, jail or prison time, or criminal indictment that can change your life entirely. And one way you can make that happen is to hire the services of a competent lawyer who knows how to navigate the judicial process. In-depth information about how public prosecutors gather evidence and build a case can be a critical asset when creating a robust criminal defense strategy.
Criminal Charges Can be of Different Kinds
Most defendants are unaware of the exact nature of the criminal charges against them. Or the possible punishment, prison terms, or fines they might incur. Rely on a smart attorney to explain what the case entails and how to come out of the situation with the minimum damage to your reputation or finances. Here are some of the practice areas where the attorneys at Smith & Eulo can help.
Misdemeanor Charges
Misdemeanors are typically less serious crimes as compared to felonies. Defendants can expect jail time, smaller fines, and shorter punishment. However, misdemeanor charges can quickly turn into felonies if the accused has prior convictions and a criminal record. Typical offenses include:
- Drunk driving
- Simple assault
- Domestic violence
- Vandalism
- Indecent exposure
- Retail fraud
- Public intoxication
Such offenses are considered more critical than infractions and typically punishable with a 12 months’ or less jail term and possibly, a fine depending on the nature of the case.
Juvenile Offenses
Any cases against a child in the state of Florida are tried in a court presided only by a judge without a jury present. Exceptions to the rule include the possibility of a direct filed case when the juvenile is tried in an adult court. When a child is arrested, the court may choose to transfer them to a detention center. Or, permit the defendant to go home with their parents and appear when ordered. Some of the juvenile offenses include:
- Violating curfew
- Shoplifting
- Harassment
- Truancy
- Underage possession or consumption of tobacco or alcohol
- Possession of marijuana or any other illegal substances
Punishments for juvenile offenses can include low-risk programs, moderate-risk programs, high-risk programs, and juvenile prison for 18 to 36 months.
Theft Crimes
The state of Florida defines theft as the act of knowingly taking or using another person’s property without permission. Obtaining property belonging to another person with the intention of depriving the owner’s right temporarily or permanently is also considered theft. This offense can be categorized as petty theft and grand theft.
- Thefts of property valued at $30,000 or more are considered grand thefts or first-degree felonies and carry a punishment of up to 30 years in prison with a maximum fine of $10,000.
- If the value of the stolen property is $300 or more but less than $750, the offense is considered a misdemeanor.
- A record of similar crimes can result in a petty theft being considered a felony.
Sex Offenses
Sexual crimes in Florida carry some of the harshest of punishments. The seriousness of the charges depends on factors such as:
- Age of the victim
- Age of the offender
- Any other aggravating circumstances
Punishment for sex offenses varies according to the crime. For instance:
- Probation for a first-time offender for solicitation of prostitution that is considered a misdemeanor
- Up to 15 years’ imprisonment for lewd or lascivious battery
- Prison terms ranging from 11 years to life for aggravated sexual battery where the victim is above 12 years
- Life imprisonment without the possibility of parole for sexual battery on a child below 12 years if the defendant is above 18 years
Probation Violations
The court can award probation to any person and order them to be released from detention under supervision, if they show good behavior. However, in case the person violates the terms of the probationary punishment, they must face severe penalties. Probation can be technical or substantive. Technical violations can include:
- Failing to pass a drug test
- Failing to pay the court fees
- Failing to show up for the mandatory probation meeting
- Failing to complete the rehabilitation program
Substantive violations can include committing a new crime while under probation for an existing offense. The court may choose to revoke the probation and order imprisonment.
Domestic Violence
Domestic violence incidents are defined by the state of Florida as specified acts of violence committed against a member of the family or household. The minimum penalty is a five days’ prison term. However, if the charges are combined with assault and battery, a domestic assault conviction can result in extended jail time. Some of the offenses included in household violence include:
- Assault
- Kidnapping
- Battery
- Sexual assault
- Stalking
Domestic violence charges can be for crimes committed against a current or ex-spouse, persons who are currently or were formerly living together as a family, or persons who share a child, whether or not they are now or were once married.
Loitering and Prowling Offenses
The law does not permit any person to loiter or prowl in a place or time, displaying behavior that is unusual for a citizen respecting the law. Any law enforcement officer may stop a person if they have reason to believe that the person in question can be a potential threat to peace and security to other people or property in the area. Here are some of the typical reasons for such charges:
- Running away on sighting the police officer
- Refusing to provide identification
- Attempting to hide or conceal objects
- Refusing the leave the area when asked to
Loitering and prowling offenses are considered misdemeanors of the second degree and can be punished accordingly.
Robbery Offenses
Robbery is a felony offense and can be categorized as first, second, or third-degree carrying different punishments according to the severity of the crime.
- Sudden snatching typically includes pickpocketing or grabbing purses and falls under the third-degree offense category. Such crimes are punishable by a prison term or probation terms of up to 5 years.
- Robbery by force is when the act accompanies some kind of violence and harms the victim. Such offenses are considered second-degree and carry a sentence of a maximum of 15 years in prison or probation.
- Robbery with a deadly weapon is when a weapon is used to threaten or harm the victim and take away their possessions. Such cases are considered first-degree felonies with the possibility of a maximum 30-year prison term.
DUI
While a single DUI may not be the end of the world, multiple DUI offenses can lead to thousands of dollars in fines, a lifetime revocation of your license, and years served in prison. However, a first-time DUI is still no laughing matter. A single DUI charge can result in up to:
- Fines up to $1,000
- 180 days license revocation
- Mandatory DUI interlock program (up to $110/mo)
- 6 months in prison
In addition, a DUI charge can have a sever impact on your personal and professional life. If you have been charged with a DUI, contact Smith & Eulo Law Firm to review your criminal case. We can represent you in the Ocala court system, and craft the best possible defense for your situation.
Assault and Battery
While assault and battery charges are often grouped together, there is a clear distinction between the two. If the offender has physically touched the victim, the act is considered battery and an additional battery charge is usually added to a simple assault charge. The penalties for assault and battery could be up to:
- $10,000 in fines
- 15 years imprisonment
- Additional anger management/physical offender classes
Assualt and battery charges are no laughing matter. If you have been charged with assault, battery, or a combination of both, contact Smith and Eulo Law Firm for a free initial case consultation. We work to tell your side of the story, and present your defense clearly so the Ocala courts can make an informed decision.
Drug Crimes
Drug crimes can be anything from a simple possession of marijuana charge, to a life-changing charge of trafficking a Schedule I narcotic. In some instances, offenders can even be labeled a drug kingpin, bringing on more severe penalties. The penalties for the most severe drug crimes can include:
- Life imprisonment
- $500,000 in fines
- Mandatory substance abuse programs
If you are charged with a drug crime, Smith and Eulo Law Firm is here to defend you. Our Ocala defense lawyers can represent you in the court of law, and present your case in a way that proves a reasonable doubt in the minds of your peers.
What to Expect in Your Criminal Case
The criminal defense process will most likely be something you are very unfamiliar with. It can be very intimidating to go through the legal process by yourself, so ensuring you have the expertise of a great criminal defense attorney can put your mind at ease. If you need criminal defense representation in Ocala, FL, Smith & Eulo Law Firm is here to assist you!
The first step in the process of defending your criminal charges is to contact a qualified criminal defense lawyer. Most lawyers offer a free initial consultation to give you an idea of what it will take to defend your case, including our team at Smith & Eulo. You can schedule your free consultation with us by calling 407-930-8912.
Once you’ve secured legal representation, your lawyer will ask you as many questions as possible to understand the details of your case. They will be able to tell you the likelihood of a positive outcome, as well as exactly what to do in order to achieve it. A good attorney will make certain you are completely prepared for your court date and will coach you on exactly what to say and do.
Smith & Eulo Law Firm: Ocala, FL Criminal Defense Lawyers
1515 E Silver Springs Blvd
Unit 145
Ocala, FL 34470
(352) 505-9810
Contact Us Today!
Reviews
They deliver what they promise
Thanks to lawyer Matthew ????
I had less than a week to prepare for my civil court case, and the law firm of Smith and Eulo acknowledged this and assigned the right staff (first, it was Ken (partner) and a handover to Mario!).
Mario quickly became intimate with my case and set us up for success by ensuring we were court-ready and presentable. Mario proactively provided updates as to ‘the magic’ he was conducting behind the scenes. If there’s one thing that I desire in a lawyer, it’s transparency and a partnership. Together, Mario and I eliminated assumptions and walked through every strategic move. We were always 2 – 3 steps ahead game.
I felt as if I was the only case they were working on
Mario and team worked late nights and worked their magic to re-open my case to include critical items that were missed the first time around, (i.e. gaining possessions of my belongings, compensation for missed days at work, coordinated retrieval of my belongings from an ex-partners residence).
My case was high conflict and high dollar, and this firm thought outside of the box to ensure * I * was awarded what I deserved.
Very dependable and awesome Family / Civil lawyer who dealt with my high dollar, high conflict case. Mario was knowledgeable and spoke legalize in terms I understood (I have no background with legalize, injunctions, etc.) Mario is knowledgeable, caring, and down to earth – however, he can be a bulldog, and execute critical matters in a timely matter – I felt heard, seen, important, and cared for.
Mario/ firm is consistent with transparency and status updates – big or small. Smith and Eulo et al. displayed and carried themselves professionally, and more importantly, focused on facts. Mario presented factual scenarios/circumstances which resulted in optimum results that benefited me and my case.
Mario is exceptional with his hard work ethic and his kindness in keeping me in the loop – we all know how stressful it is to deal with the law and how it’s out of our hands. Trust Mario to work his magic and be reassured that you’re on top of his mind.
Thank you Smith and Eulo for treating my case as if it were your own ‘baby’. And many thanks to Mario.
Ty’s professionalism and dedication to my situation were truly remarkable. Beyond being an outstanding attorney, he became a great friend throughout this process. His support and guidance were invaluable, and I couldn’t have asked for a better advocate. Thank you once again for everything. I am incredibly grateful for all your help.
back to us with our questions. Thank you so much.
I often found myself confused by legal terms, but Ashley consistently took the time to explain everything clearly and patiently, addressing all my concerns. Her dedication to making sure I felt comfortable and informed throughout the trials was truly invaluable.
I also want to extend my thanks to Smith & Eulo for their flexibility in offering a payment plan that fit my situation, which made this difficult time a little easier to navigate.
Thank you, Smith & Eulo, for your outstanding support and commitment. I couldn’t have asked for better representation.
Your situation. Never hesitate with this team. THEY WILL TAKE CARE OF YOU! ????????⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I am very grateful for all the help that attorney Luz Root and her wonderful team gave me unconditionally throughout the entire process, which had a completely successful result and even exceeded my initial expectations. They were in charge of answering each of my questions and explaining in detail all the steps to follow, always giving me a comforting feeling of security. Smith & Eulo Law firm is the best law firm I could recommend without a doubt.
I see a lot a good reviews from other people prosecutor have last minute witness I have to represent my self court he was quite even the judge said he can adment and request more time to be prepared and he stay quiet even calling the firm and Brenda hanging my call everything is recorded My ???? is Anibal Vazquez I signed with Bruce Lee Roistacher but I get disappointed they send me another lawyer Mr. Evan GARDINER didn't listen and did nothing about my case I have to speak in court for myself he already told me I going to get 51 months in jail for a simple accident the prosecutor editing videos police officer smoking inside the official vehicle tamping evidences and this Evan GARDINER got me in his office and said what you want me to do is obviously defense me from the injustice of LAKE CITY FLORIDA RACIST AND TYRANTS and Corruption I went to the hospital never get treated they doctor signed and next day getting out of jail when to ER with head trauma lacerations and x-ray in HCa Hospital lake City Florida I expect more from this Firm
She consistently missed deadlines for paperwork to be filed, she would not respond for days on end, and even emailed me an hour before I was set to appear in court to say it had been postponed, not having the decency to even call her client.
Our original conversation she told me her fees cost $4,000 for my first offense ever in my life which was a misdemeanor, and I felt she was inadequate so I moved on to other options. In the haze I was in from my mistake, I spoke to another attorney at the firm who charged me $3,000 and then ended up having me work with Marie.
I’ve now learned the service I paid for is more along the line of $1,500-$2,000 from others who have been in my situation and were thrilled with their representation.
Marie not only made me incur unnecessary costs, but she caused me significant emotional turmoil over the fear of not knowing the person I paid to represent me spoke to me verbally maybe 4 times over the course of 6 months.
The kicker is, I pointed out all of her errors to Smith and Eulo so they had a brand new lawyer show up to my last Pretrial conference who I met that day despite speaking on the phone twice before.
Either she didn’t want to do her job, or the firm knew she was in fact negligent with my case and tried to avoid a malpractice claim against Marie with the Florida BAR association. In the end I still ended with the conviction, so she failed to do her job.
Literally pick any other person than this woman, a duck from your local pond would do better.
Not only did she get all charges dismissed, she was very patient and understanding while putting up with my many questions and phone calls along with thoroughly reviewing the evidence on the clients behalf!
The client was being accused of something he did not do and he felt as though he had no voice and
would have to plead guilty to this charge.
Attorney Root went to great lengths to make sure his situation was understood and restored his faith in the justice system. She took the time that was needed to dive into this case and fight for her client!
She is very knowledgeable and is someone YOU WANT IN YOUR CORNER FIGHTING FOR YOU!!!
Thank you to Smith & Eulo, Attorney Root & Attorney Casagrande is an understatement.
If you are in search of a Law Firm you can trust you cannot go wrong with Smith & Eulo!
I recommend it..!!
with Ken Eulo to Grace Casagrande and Luz Root,
His team of professionals were very knowledgeable, responsive and empathetic throughout the process, working diligently to ensure the result.
I appreciated their dedication and highly recommend them.
I recommend your legal team without hesitation.
Thank you
I appreciated their dedication and highly recommend them.
I ended up violating the program after I was Charged with Possession of Marijuana over 20 Grams which is also a third degree felony. I was facing a maximum of 5 years in prison for both charges. Darryl was able to get me a Withhold of Adjudication I plead no contest and was given probation with early termination for both the Gun and Weed Charges.
Darryl was easy to get in contact with and kept me consistently updated with each case.
Thank you so Much Darryl for your hardwork and patience throughout both cases!
Yes, I recommend Matt to anbody!!!!
I am happy with the care provided. I recommend them.
I appreciated their dedication and highly recommend them.
Their professionalism and experience gave me the confidence I needed to face the legal process with peace of mind. I deeply appreciate their dedication, patience and the humane treatment I received. Their deep knowledge of the law and their strategic approach were key to obtaining a favorable outcome in my case.
I would not hesitate to recommend the firm to anyone who needs top-level Professionals.
Smith & Eulo Law Firm, they provided me with great professional service, defending my best interests and if you need a good law firm, you can trust them. Thank you
Excellent lawyers!! They give you security in every situation of your case.
We were facing an uphill battle and he got me across the finish line. Hiring him could have very well have saved my future in regard to seeing my children.
He’s extremely honest also which is why I hired him initially. He wont lie and tell you what you want to hear so you hire him. Right off the bat he’s transparent with the unpredictability of the court system, but let me tell you no matter what way a case twists and turns, he’s ready for it.
Honestly he made a really messy case look easy when all was said and done.
He’s always very kind and understanding. He gets that life isn’t easy, and will always pick up the phone or text if he can. He genuinely cares about the people he represents and provides a judgement free attitude that I feel many other lawyers don’t do.
Please if you need legal assistance stop right here and hire Attorney Matthew Futch. The firm is also extremely kind.
My children and I will always appreciate Attorney Futch. Thank you!!
So I recommend them. Thanks to the entire team.
They handle the complexities of the legal system with skill and provide unwavering support throughout the entire process. Through their efforts they achieved the best result in my situation. I highly recommend them.
At all times they keep you informed of the status of the diligence, committing to the client to provide a satisfactory result. I recommend them
Wonderful.
They are available to their clients, after hours and even on weekends, they are incredibly responsible and honest.
As a client I feel very well represented, I recommend them without reservation.
I recommend them for being a loyal and efficient team.
Their exceptional service and support are invaluable.
Excellent lawyers!! They give you security in your case.
team has done an exponential job. Special thanks to Darryl smith, who took the lead over my case and who also worked with me, which he was very attentive and understanding as well as getting the job done. I'm extremely happy with my end results and would definitely recommend this firm.
I recommend them.
100% recommended
Luz Root was the attorney I spoke with the most, they were very helpful and responsive. They were incredibly informative and got my case dropped in the matter of a week! Grateful to have stumbled upon smith and Eulo law firm.
I would not recommend this law firm. My son was convinced to take a plea of 5 years for a carrying a gun even though he had no prior convictions. Original charge was dismissed due to a witness came forward to confirm my son was defending himself against family members who were gang members. They really didn't do anything but file a couple motions, didn't fight for him. I had to push the issue for them make contact with the witness so that the previous charge would be dismissed. Attorney promised him being a minor he would be eligible to get out early by going to boot camp. He would request adjudication to be withheld. That was untrue. I've called him several times regarding this request and transcripts we should have received and to this date he has not called me back. But the most funny thing is my son's attorney Caleb for Eulo and Smith agreed Ms. Sykes had it out for my son although her so called victims admitted during deposition they were gang members. How convenient State attorney Alexis Sykes who was the S.A. on my son's case and has a history of sentencing
african american males more harsher is now an attorney with this same law firm there shortly after. I will never recommend this law office. And now I see why they insisted he take this horrible plea to only be placed in a broken system full of gang activities and continuing to fight to stay out of gangs.
We had a very good experience and attention...
Thank you
Sincerely,
Chanda.
Much love .
Mrs. Reininger
As the case moved forward, another attorney from the firm took on my representation. However, this period saw limited progress, though it's essential to clarify that this wasn't reflective of Ken's dedication or abilities, and that attorney has since left the firm.
In the concluding months of my nearly two-year-long legal ordeal, Mr. Matt Futch stepped in, and his involvement was nothing short of transformative. From the beginning, I sensed his genuine concern, deep knowledge, and commitment to my case. Matt is highly responsive and genuinely takes a vested interest in his clients' outcomes. There were moments when my situation felt overwhelmingly bleak, yet Matt tirelessly sought mitigation, achieving a resolution of no conviction, no jail time, and keeping me from the weighty "felon" label.
Matt was a Godsend, not just to me, but to my entire family. He might not realize the full magnitude, but he saved my life. With his guidance, I can now progress, focusing on fulfilling my purpose and being all that God intends for me in this world.
I cannot recommend Matthew Futch and the Smith & Eulo Law Firm enough. Their commitment to justice, combined with their deep care for their clients' well-being, has been my beacon during this challenging time, and I am profoundly grateful for their unwavering support.
Unfortunately I've had a hand full of attorney that won't respond to me and takes days if not weeks to hear back from them..stressing if they care or more less will fight for you..Alexis Sykes would respond within hours and not brush you off....she's a confident woman who knows the law and will fight for you..I can't explain how thankful I am to be apart of my family again.
Alexis thank you so much!
Had high performance expectations going in and was not disappointed.
Mr Messenger was on his A+ game and put in the work. Motions filed in a timely manner. Solid defense strategy. Will definitely hire this firm again if needed
Got to observe One of the other firm attorneys in court. I believe her name was Courtney and also was impressed by her performance. Well organized well spoken and direct.
Ken was all that one could ask for in a quality attorney. His dedication to his clients shows through his quick responses and empathetic nature. Ken resolved my case on no time! He cares about what he does, an awesome lawyer.
He saved our autistic son from a horrific long sentence.
Our family is forever grateful and thinks Ken Eulo is awesome.
If you need someone to defend you... this is your guy.
These attorneys care and have a heart in addition to being very efficient at helping to deal with the criminal justice system.
Our family has used is this firm for over 10 years and I highly recommend these attorneys.
Believe me my wife and I have received personal satisfaction and peace from the work that this farm that has to help people.
He projects such great confidence, but not arrogance, he took ownership in my problem, and engendered a belief that he will do everything possible to help me succeed, I fully trusted him every step of the way. Mr.Eulo not only knows the law, he knows the business too. He was always available for me if at anytime I had questions and would contact me personally to update me on my case.
Attorney Alex Smith Johnson is the absolute best attorney I have ever had represent me considering in the past I have had at least four attorneys represent me in other matters.My case was complex with life and freedom on the line.Other "lawyers" not only refused to take my case because it was extremely complex but I was given no hope and told "there is no way you will get this case resolved in your favor". Attorney Smith Johnson took the time to listen to my entire story without rushing me. He took the time to explain everything to me from the beginning to the end without all the fillers and fluff that most attorneys and law firms serve just to get paid.I like to call that type of representation "The Revolving Door Of False Hope Law Firm". With the "Set It And Forget It" attitude most Lawyers have towards their clients.I was being represented by a lawyer that cost me $50,000 that had 1,000 positive reviews or more.I fired that lawyer for attorney Smith Johnson putting my future and life on the line blind. Thinking back it was the best decision I ever made because even though my previous lawyer had all the good reviews and is considered the best of the best I am telling you right now that all went out the window because of the way my family and I was treated.
Ten minutes into my consultation with Mr. Johnson I could tell he had the experience and confidence to handle my case that nobody else would.I was treated like a human giving my family and I the realistic hope without the sugar on top we desperately needed.We had a good night sleep knowing my case was being handled professionally but most importantly knew in our heart Attorney Smith Johnson and his law firm actually cared about us and our case. If you and your family are looking for a real criminal defense attorney and you want Quality representation that you can trust I would put my life and name on the line highly recommending Attorney Alex Smith Johnson without a second thought or hesitation. You not only get a highly qualified attorney on your side step by step of the way but you get a peace of mind and to me that means more than anything. Alex you are the best my family and I wanted to thank you for everything. You gave us our life back. You are kindhearted but are equally as aggressive in the court room.That's not only hard to find but it's very much appreciated.You Sir were able to accomplish what everyone else said would never happen because they lacked the confidence and knowledge that you presented throughout this entire ordeal.
I wish I could give this Law Firm a 10/10 but sadly it only go's up to 5.You now have a client for life.If I ever need a criminal defence Attorney ever again or know anyone that needs one you and your Firm will be the ones we call on speed dial lol.
Robert is easy to talk to about tough issues and diligent to find solutions or honestly let you know when there is no solution. A compassionate, skilled and experienced attorney, Robert is a strong and relentless advocate for his clients.
Seeing the law firm take the time to make an impact in the community and support One Heart's mission was an incredible experience. We look forward to continuing our partnership with the Smith and Eulo Law Firm! Thank you to your amazing team.
Thank you Ken
Please save you're time and money and months of uncertainty about you're future.
God Bless thank you again!
Glad he takes his craft that serious!
Mr. Smith-Johnson was both compassionate and effective in communicating his concerns regarding my legal problems. Throughout the entire legal process, Mr. Smith- Johnson assisted me in understanding what was happening every step of the way. In addition, he valued my feedback in wanting to help resolve my matter as soon as possible (It was if I was an actual lawyer as well lol).
If you’re considering who to choose for your legal representation, I would HIGHLY that you choose Me. Smith-Johnson at this law firm!
Ps. If you choose this firm my people let them know Henry Rivera sent you.
Hired the best!Its what is important their firm.,it’s not about them wining the case but also do it in a Legal and timely manner.Their clients come first n they do have a lot of compassion for his client .He explains to you step /step of what is going to happen and that calms you down and builds your confidence.
Mr Smith,his partner ,Mr Eulo and allstaff in their office,in the office only at aim at “one thing”getting their clients discharged and acquitted.THANK You to MR SMITH.
Normally being young could be a negative factor but in this case is the opposite because he can relate and apply his extensive knowledge to real life scenarios for the best outcome..
Trust them with you eye closed and they with open them with kind and helpful service ...