Criminal Defense Lawyer in Fort Myers, FL Giving You the Representation You Deserve to Fight Your Criminal Case
Who is Sherman Defense Law Firm, P.A.?
With more than 15 years of substantial legal experience, Melissa Sherman started the Sherman Defense Law Firm, P.A., to be there for the people of Fort Myers when they most need someone in their corner. During her time in practice, Melissa has developed a reputation as a fearless and assertive defense attorney who isn’t intimidated by any police or prosecutor. Her courtroom-tested approach to criminal cases is unique and laser-focused, developing a clear theory of defense from the first moment she reviews a case during your initial consultation.
Our criminal defense practice revolves around the premise that an experienced and skilled criminal defense attorney can review the initial discovery, speak with the prospective client, and immediately begin to form a roadmap to an acquittal. The best defense involves stripping away the sensationalism and distracting, extraneous information around a case to get to the basest, most factual details.
Our goal has always been to get clients out of the legal crises in which they find themselves and back to enjoying happy, healthy lives. We know that Florida has a reputation for being “tough on crime” to uphold. We don’t believe this should mean just throwing people in prison. That’s why Melissa Sherman and her tireless legal team work with every individual client to develop unique defense strategies best tailored to the circumstances of their case. If she has to, Melissa Sherman will even take your case to a jury and argue in your defense.
From the moment someone is arrested, the Florida criminal justice system is looking for a reason to put them in prison. Don’t become part of the system. Acting early and quickly may be crucial to your defense. That’s why if you or a loved one has been arrested in Fort Myers, you shouldn’t hesitate to contact us immediately.
Our Practice Areas
Drug Possession
Facing drug possession charges can be overwhelming, with serious consequences for your future. Our experienced attorneys fight to protect your rights, challenge the evidence, and work toward the best possible outcome for your case.
Assault
Many people believe that “assault” is interchangeable with “attacking” or “fighting.” This is not true. Under Florida law, if you threaten someone and they believe you have the willingness and ability to harm them, you may still face assault charges. That means you can go to prison without ever having actually touched another person. That’s why, if you’ve been charged with assault in Florida, a skilled defense attorney is vital.
Domestic Violence
Being accused of domestic violence can be particularly damaging to a person’s life, even before they go to trial. In many instances, a person charged with domestic violence will already begin experiencing consequences even before they go to trial, including restrictions on when and how they can see their children and where they can live. A domestic violence conviction can mean an end to your life as you know it.
Because of the strong stigma attached to domestic violence, it can prove challenging to find judges and juries who will be sympathetic or impartial to someone who has even been accused of domestic violence. Many people still believe “where there’s smoke, there’s fire.” At Sherman Defense Firm, P.A., we have the perfect solution. Melissa Sherman’s proven Sherman Defense Technique blows away the smoke to show there is no fire, stripping a case down to its bare facts to demonstrate the truth behind accusations.
Drug Crimes
Drug arrests are common and can happen under a variety of circumstances. Due to Florida’s history with violent drug crime, the state has some especially harsh drug laws. Possession of what you might think are “harmless” party drugs or even excess quantities of prescription medication can result in lengthy prison sentences and tens of thousands of dollars in fines.
DUI
DUI laws are frustrating and complicated, and the consequences are expensive and long-lasting. Even if it’s your first offense, a DUI can result in a suspended license, hundreds or thousands of dollars in fines and fees, and lost hours attending traffic safety classes. Depending on the circumstances, you may lose your job and your ability to find or maintain new employment. Don’t let a DUI stall your future. Protect your liberties with an experienced criminal defense attorney.
Felony Defense
Many people have heard the word “felon” used interchangeably with the word “criminal,” such as in the phrase “convicted felon.” Most of us don’t give this a second thought. People who have been convicted of crimes are often called felons because the most severe type of crime a person can be charged with is a felony.
Homicide
Homicide is the most serious criminal charge a Floridian can face. In some instances, you may face the death penalty. Even if the prosecution does not pursue capital punishment, you may still face the rest of your life behind bars. That means if you’re charged with homicide, your life is literally on the line. Don’t take chances. Contact Melissa Sherman at Sherman Defense Law Firm today.
Investigative Retainers
While the words “criminal defense” typically registers with people as a means to protect themselves after they have been charged or arrested for a crime, it is important to understand your criminal defense can start long before any action is taken against you.
Misdemeanors
Misdemeanors are some of the most common crimes in Florida. Every year, 13 million people are charged with misdemeanors nationwide, making up 80% of all court dockets. If you or a loved one has been arrested, there’s a good chance it’s a misdemeanor. That means you also have a good chance of getting reduced charges or even an acquittal if you contact Sherman Defense Firm, P.A. Our proven track record in representing people on misdemeanor charges means you and your loved ones will be in good hands.
Non-Violent Felonies
Many individuals think that felony crimes are necessarily violent. This isn’t necessarily true. Many felony charges are for non-violent offenses.
If you’ve been charged with a non-violent felony, you have a better chance of avoiding serious prison time and fines—but you’ll need an experienced attorney to provide you with a strong criminal defense. Melissa Sherman has extensive experience in defending against charges of non-violent felonies and helping to secure acquittals, dismissals, or reductions in sentence for her clients.
Theft
Whether felony grand theft or petit theft, no theft charge is too small to impact your life. Even theft of something worth less than $100 can send you to jail and cost you hundreds of dollars in fines and legal fees. Stealing something more valuable can mean years behind bars. Get the help you need by hiring a criminal defense lawyer today.
Do I Need Pre-Arrest Investigative Services?
Most arrests do not come “out of the blue.” The police will often interview you at least once prior to an arrest, if not multiple times. In other instances, they may leave a business card on your front door or at your place of employment, asking you to contact them. They may even show up at your child’s school to find you. If the police have already spoken to you or are attempting to speak with you, it may be a sign that you are about to be arrested. They may have already decided on you as their prime suspect, and may now be working to obtain enough evidence for an arrest. If the police have attempted to contact you or have already been in touch, don’t hesitate. Contact Melissa Sherman immediately.
Client Success Stories
– Patriot W.
– Michele S.
– Jessica K.
– Joel C.
Why Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
With serious legal consequences looming around the corner from a criminal conviction, it is essential to act immediately and get the legal help you need. Retaining a criminal defense attorney can relieve the stress you’re experiencing and improve the potential outcome of your criminal case.
From investigating your allegations and developing a solid criminal defense to representing you in your potential trial, a criminal defense lawyer in Fort Myers and the greater Lee County area can protect your rights and liberties from being infringed on. Many people make the mistake of waiting to obtain a criminal defense lawyer until they are further into their criminal case.
The sooner you act, the more favorable your results may be. If you or a loved one needs dedicated legal assistance for a criminal matter, look no further than the Sherman Defense Law Firm, P.A.
Meet Attorney
Melissa Sherman
With more than 15 years of substantial legal experience, attorney Melissa Sherman opened the Sherman Defense Law Firm, P.A. Melissa Sherman’s approach to criminal cases is unique and laser-focused on developing a clear theory of defense from the first moment she reviews the case at the initial consultation.
Melissa Sherman’s practice revolves around the premise that an experienced and skilled criminal defense attorney can review the initial discovery, speak with the prospective client, and immediately begin to form a roadmap to an acquittal.
When Should I Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney?
From the moment you’re arrested, a clock is ticking. With the proper warrants, the police can search your home, vehicle, and more before you’re even able to make bail. By the time you know what’s happening, an overzealous prosecutor may have already built a case against you. Florida has a vested interest in securing convictions to help its “tough on crime” reputation. If the criminal justice system thinks you’ve committed a crime, it will work to secure a conviction. Don’t become a statistic. If you or a loved one has been arrested in Fort Myers, call Melissa Sherman at Sherman Defense, P.A. right now.
Melissa Sherman’s more than 15 years of experience in litigation mean she knows that an early, quick, and aggressive defense is the best way to ensure an acquittal, dismissal, or reduction. She’ll work just as assertively and as diligently as the officers and prosecutors working her case. She has no fear in the courtroom and will not hesitate to take the fight back to prosecutors.
The Sherman Defense Law Firm, P.A., is located less than 2 miles away from the City of Palms Park, about 4 miles away from Trailhead Neighborhood Park, and about 10 miles away from Lakes Park. Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) is roughly 16 miles away from the Sherman Defense Law Firm, P.A.
Don’t make the mistake of going through your criminal case without the proper legal help on your side. Whether you need help with the pre-arrest investigative process or representation for your criminal case, I will be ready to fight for you every step of the way. Contact the Sherman Defense Law Firm, P.A., today at (239) 284-5708 to learn more about your next course of action.
Why Choose Us?
Full Investigation Services
Some law firms will obtain a copy of a police report, interview you, and develop their defense strategy from there. At Sherman Defense, that’s only the beginning. We utilize full pre-trial investigative services to develop as complete a picture of your case as possible. In addition to reviewing the evidence already available at the time you’re charged, we’ll also conduct our own interviews and research to determine whether key evidence or witnesses were overlooked.
Proactive, Not Reactive
Our Pretrial investigation services are only the beginning of our approach to client defense, which is proactive, rather than reactive. Many other attorneys will wait for prosecutors or the criminal justice system to make moves and then respond. Melissa Sherman doesn’t react—she thinks three steps down the road. This approach often means that charges against our clients are dropped before a trial even begins.
A Unique Defense Strategy
Not every defense attorney can claim to have developed their own defense strategy. The Sherman Defense is a unique courtroom strategy perfected by Melissa Sherman over multiple years and countless cases. While other law firms have a basic, one-size-fits-all approach to defending clients, the Sherman Defense lends itself to case-by-case application for a more customized, personal approach to criminal defense.
Genuine Passion
At Sherman Defense, we believe in advocating fiercely for every client. We work tirelessly to protect their rights, secure fair results, and support them as they move beyond difficult times. We pride ourselves on a no-judgment approach to criminal defense that aims to improve the lives of everyone we represent.
Genuine Compassion
We don’t believe any client is ever just a case number. Melissa Sherman understands that even innocent people get arrested and that the criminal justice system can tend to be overzealous in pursuing prosecutions. She knows from firsthand experience that it’s easier than people would like to think for an innocent person to find themselves facing an aggressive prosecutor. She doesn’t just represent cases, she represents people.
Proven Results
Melissa Sherman has been representing clients for 15 years. In that time, she’s secured innumerable acquittals and even gotten charges against her clients dropped before trial. If necessary, she can and will argue your case before a jury trial. At Sherman Defense, our name is our reputation, and we pride ourselves on building that reputation with every case we represent.
We Can Help You Move Forward!
Request Your Case Evaluation Today!
Full Investigation Services
Some law firms will obtain a copy of a police report, interview you, and develop their defense strategy from there. At Sherman Defense, that’s only the beginning. We utilize full pre-trial investigative services to develop as complete a picture of your case as possible. In addition to reviewing the evidence already available at the time you’re charged, we’ll also conduct our own interviews and research to determine whether key evidence or witnesses were overlooked.
Proactive, Not Reactive
Our Pretrial investigation services are only the beginning of our approach to client defense, which is proactive, rather than reactive. Many other attorneys will wait for prosecutors or the criminal justice system to make moves and then respond. Melissa Sherman doesn’t react—she thinks three steps down the road. This approach often means that charges against our clients are dropped before a trial even begins.
A Unique Defense Strategy
Not every defense attorney can claim to have developed their own defense strategy. The Sherman Defense is a unique courtroom strategy perfected by Melissa Sherman over multiple years and countless cases. While other law firms have a basic, one-size-fits-all approach to defending clients, the Sherman Defense lends itself to case-by-case application for a more customized, personal approach to criminal defense.
Genuine Passion
At Sherman Defense, we believe in advocating fiercely for every client. We work tirelessly to protect their rights, secure fair results, and support them as they move beyond difficult times. We pride ourselves on a no-judgment approach to criminal defense that aims to improve the lives of everyone we represent.
Genuine Compassion
We don’t believe any client is ever just a case number. Melissa Sherman understands that even innocent people get arrested and that the criminal justice system can tend to be overzealous in pursuing prosecutions. She knows from firsthand experience that it’s easier than people would like to think for an innocent person to find themselves facing an aggressive prosecutor. She doesn’t just represent cases, she represents people.
Proven Results
Melissa Sherman has been representing clients for 15 years. In that time, she’s secured innumerable acquittals and even gotten charges against her clients dropped before trial. If necessary, she can and will argue your case before a jury trial. At Sherman Defense, our name is our reputation, and we pride ourselves on building that reputation with every case we represent.
We Can Help You Move Forward!
Request Your Case Evaluation Today!
What are Pre-Arrest Investigations?
Sometimes, thinking ahead of law enforcement is the best strategy to avoid a conviction. If you or a loved one is aware that you’re under a criminal investigation, it can be invaluable to hire an attorney before you’re even arrested. At Sherman Defense Firm, P.A., we believe in starting our own investigation before the police have a chance to finish theirs.
Our pre-arrest investigative services can provide an alternative perspective to evidence and theories offered by law enforcement. In the event you’re arrested, that means we’ll already be prepared with evidence to counter the state. A solid pre-trial investigation can mean your charges may be thrown out before a trial even begins. If your case does go to trial, pre-investigative evidence can prove key in securing your acquittal.
Our Latest Blog Posts
Posted on September 8, 2021
Drug charges are harshly prosecuted in the court of law. Whether you are facing a misdemeanor drug charge or a […]
Posted on August 15, 2021
Going through the traditional criminal justice system isn’t the only way to resolve a criminal case. There are alternative means […]
Posted on July 24, 2021
If you watch television or movies, you may be familiar with the lines uttered each and every time by actors […]
Posted on July 5, 2021
With many popular criminal justice shows and movies, many people believe criminal defense cases are won and lost inside the […]
Posted on July 4, 2021
Being arrested for a crime is incredibly stressful. It can be particularly hard on your loved ones as well. As […]
Posted on June 28, 2021
The start of any criminal case can provide uncertainty to those dealing with an arrest, possible arrest, or criminal charge. […]
Are All Drug Charges the Same?
Drug charges are harshly prosecuted in the court of law. Whether you are facing a…
What is the Alternative Court System?
Going through the traditional criminal justice system isn’t the only way to resolve a criminal…
What are Miranda Rights?
If you watch television or movies, you may be familiar with the lines uttered each…
What Aspects Make Up a Strong Criminal Defense?
With many popular criminal justice shows and movies, many people believe criminal defense cases are…
What Should I Expect at my First Appearance in Court?
Being arrested for a crime is incredibly stressful. It can be particularly hard on your…
How Do Criminal Cases Start?
The start of any criminal case can provide uncertainty to those dealing with an arrest,…
What Are My Rights During Questioning?
Police will often ask individuals under investigation or who may have info about a crime to come in “voluntarily” for questioning. This is a trap. If the police have asked you to “come in,” they may be hoping to arrest you. They will be waiting for you to make a wrong statement or turn of phrase that implicates you or makes you sound guilty. This way, you’re already “on hand” and in a police building, making an arrest more straightforward. Whatever you do, don’t speak to the police without an attorney. It is your legal right to remain silent until you have an attorney present.
Get legal help immediately to contact the investigating authorities on your behalf, to get more information about the underlying incident(s), and to set up a mutually beneficial time for your interview. Sometimes, it may be advisable not to answer any law enforcement questions or to provide any physical evidence, such as a DNA sample, without a warrant. You will need an attorney to help you make those decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
When Do I Need to Get Representation?
Even if you’re not the direct target of an investigation and the police need information, it’s advisable to only speak with the authorities if you have an attorney present. Police may “zero in” on people they encounter during a criminal investigation as either a new primary suspect or someone tangentially related to the crime. It is not uncommon for someone who is “only” answering questions to wind up the target of police scrutiny. Remember, The police’s job is to collect evidence and identify likely suspects. If there is enough evidence to indicate someone may have committed a crime, the police will arrest them, regardless of actual guilt or innocence.
Once you’re part of a criminal investigation, you never know how it may develop. The police may accuse you of knowing more than you’re divulging, or other witnesses may point the finger at you to deflect from their responsibility. Early representation provides peace of mind; should you be arrested, someone will be there to represent you at your first appearance, ensuring your release from jail on reasonable bail.
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