Daytona Beach Criminal Defense Lawyer
Experienced Criminal Defense Representation in Daytona Beach, Volusia County, and Flagler County
Being arrested or charged with a crime can be one of the most stressful experiences a person will ever face. Your freedom, reputation, career, and future may all be at stake. Fortunately, an arrest is not a conviction, and criminal charges can often be challenged through a thorough investigation and aggressive legal defense.
Patrick J. McGeehan is a Daytona Beach criminal defense lawyer and former detective with decades of experience in the criminal justice system. Before becoming a defense attorney, he spent years investigating crimes, interviewing witnesses, gathering evidence, and preparing cases. Today, that experience is used to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and protect the rights of individuals accused of crimes throughout Volusia County, Flagler County, and surrounding areas.
Whether you have been arrested, charged, or are under investigation, early legal representation can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
Why Hire a Former Detective as Your Defense Lawyer?
Most criminal defense attorneys only see a case after an arrest has occurred. Patrick McGeehan has experience from both sides of the criminal justice system.
As a former detective, he understands:
- How criminal investigations are conducted
- How evidence is collected and preserved
- How witnesses are interviewed
- How police reports are prepared
- How probable cause is established
- Common mistakes made during investigations
- Constitutional violations that may affect your case
Because of this unique background, Mr. McGeehan is often able to identify issues that others may overlook.
DUI Defense
Florida aggressively prosecutes driving under the influence offenses. A DUI conviction can result in driver’s license suspension, fines, probation, ignition interlock requirements, increased insurance costs, and even incarceration.
Possible defenses may involve:
- Illegal traffic stops
- Lack of probable cause
- Improper field sobriety exercises
- Breath test challenges
- Blood test issues
- Medical explanations for alleged impairment
Whether this is a first offense DUI or a felony DUI, experienced representation is critical.
Drug Crime Defense
Drug charges can carry serious consequences that extend far beyond the courtroom. A conviction may affect employment opportunities, professional licenses, housing applications, educational opportunities, and immigration status.
Representation is available for charges involving:
- Drug possession
- Possession with intent to sell
- Drug trafficking
- Prescription drug offenses
- Marijuana-related offenses
- Drug paraphernalia charges
Every case should be carefully reviewed to determine whether the search, seizure, arrest, and evidence collection procedures complied with constitutional requirements.
Weapons and Firearm Offenses
Florida firearm laws can be complex, and weapons charges often carry severe penalties.
Representation is available for:
- Felon in possession of a firearm
- Improper exhibition of a firearm
- Carrying a concealed firearm
- Unlawful discharge of a firearm
- Firearm enhancement allegations
- Risk Protection Orders (Red Flag Laws)
A thorough review of the evidence and circumstances surrounding the arrest is often critical in firearm-related cases.
Sex Crime Defense
Few criminal allegations carry consequences as serious as a sex offense accusation. Even before a case reaches trial, an accusation alone can impact employment, personal relationships, and community standing.
Charges may include:
- Sexual battery
- Lewd or lascivious offenses
- Child pornography offenses
- Internet solicitation allegations
- Failure to register offenses
- Other sex-related crimes
Because these cases are often highly emotional and fact-intensive, immediate legal representation is essential.
Additional Criminal Defense Services
Representation is also available for:
- Domestic violence charges
- Assault and battery offenses
- Aggravated battery
- Burglary
- Robbery
- Theft crimes
- Violent felonies
- Probation violations
- Juvenile offenses
- White-collar crimes
- Traffic offenses
- Record sealing and expungement
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I am arrested?
Remain silent and request an attorney immediately. Do not answer questions without legal counsel present.
Should I talk to the police?
In most situations, it is wise to consult with an attorney before providing statements to law enforcement.
Can criminal charges be dismissed?
Some cases may be dismissed because of insufficient evidence, constitutional violations, witness issues, or weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. Every case is unique.
Do I need a lawyer if I plan to plead guilty?
Absolutely. An attorney may identify defenses, negotiate reduced charges, seek alternative sentencing options, or uncover issues that significantly affect the outcome of the case.
Contact a Daytona Beach Criminal Defense Lawyer Today
If you have been arrested, charged with a crime, or contacted by law enforcement, do not wait to seek legal advice.
The earlier an experienced criminal defense attorney becomes involved, the greater the opportunity to protect your rights and build an effective defense.
Contact the Law Offices of Patrick J. McGeehan, P.A. today to schedule a confidential consultation.
Resources:
Leaving the Scene of an Accident With a Death
Fatal Crash Investigations in Florida