Joseph F. Martinez, P.A.

Practice Areas - Joseph F. Martinez, P.A.
Tampa Criminal Defense & Family Law Attorney

CRIMINAL LAW

Criminal law involves prosecution by the government of a person for an act that has been classified as a crime. Civil law, on the other hand, involves individuals and organizations seeking to resolve legal disputes. In a criminal case, the state, through a prosecutor, initiates the suit, while in a civil case the victim brings the suit. Persons convicted of a crime may be incarcerated, fined, or both. However, persons found liable in a civil case may only have to give up property or pay money, but are not incarcerated.

Crimes include both felonies (more serious offenses -- such as robbery, burglary, or homicide) and misdemeanors (less serious offenses -- such as D.U.I., simple battery, or petit theft). Felonies are usually crimes punishable by imprisonment of a year or more, while misdemeanors are crimes punishable by less than a year. Recently, the list of Federal crimes, which deals with activities extending beyond state boundaries or having special impact on federal operations, has grown.

FAMILY LAW

The decision to hire a family law attorney is a personal one. However, since many of the issues surrounding divorce, child custody, child support, and adoption are complicated, it may be helpful to have the advice of an experienced family law attorney.

It is a good idea to consult with a family law attorney about any major life event or change, such as a contested or uncontested divorce, adoption of a child or placement of a child for adoption, child abuse matters, child support modifications, child visitation and custody, elder law, juvenile law, probate or other major family law issue.