Frequently Asked Questions About Civil Litigation & Criminal Defense in Broward County and Throughout South Florida

Criminal defense law focuses on securing favorable outcomes for people who have been charged with criminal violations, while civil litigation involves lawsuits in which one party is generally seeking financial compensation from another. The criminal justice process proceeds differently from the civil legal process and involves different stages and court procedures. In a criminal case, the prosecutor must prove the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, which is a different and considerably higher standard than what a plaintiff is typically required to establish in civil litigation (proof by a preponderance of the evidence or by clear and convincing evidence, depending on the specific type of case).

Criminal defense law focuses on securing favorable outcomes for people who have been charged with criminal violations, while civil litigation involves lawsuits in which one party is generally seeking financial compensation from another. The criminal justice process proceeds differently from the civil legal process and involves different stages and court procedures. In a criminal case, the prosecutor must prove the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, which is a different and considerably higher standard than what a plaintiff is typically required to establish in civil litigation (proof by a preponderance of the evidence or by clear and convincing evidence, depending on the specific type of case).

Yes, you should be represented by an attorney when pursuing compensation through a civil claim. The litigation process is complex, and there are deadlines you must adhere to, legal documents you must file, and other procedural requirements you must meet. Securing the full compensation you deserve depends on a smart legal strategy and effective presentation of your evidence and arguments, which makes an attorney’s guidance invaluable.

What outcomes can an experienced attorney achieve in a criminal defense case?

Every case is different, but some of the outcomes that a criminal defense attorney in Broward County may be able to achieve for you include dismissals of charges, not-guilty trial verdicts, suppression of evidence obtained through improper means, plea deals that meaningfully benefit you, or effective advocacy for lighter sentencing.

How are attorneys’ fees charged in Broward County?

As a longtime practitioner of law in this community, I recognize that different circumstances may call for different approaches not only to the legal process but also to legal fees. I have a flexible approach to fees, offering options that include contingency fees (in civil matters), flat-fee arrangements, success fee models, traditional hourly fee models, and more. Those who can’t afford legal help may qualify for pro bono services. If you’re concerned about the cost of legal representation, take advantage of my offer of a confidential consultation to learn about your legal rights and explore how I may be able to serve you.

Broward County Civil and Criminal Lawyer | Civil Litigation and Criminal Defense Attorney Broward County FL

Dedicated Civil Litigation and Criminal Defense Attorney in Broward County, FL

Trying to manage the demands of the legal process without a Broward County civil and criminal lawyer could leave you without the protections and effective strategy you need to achieve the most favorable outcome for your case. At Carlos F. Gonzalez, P.A., I’m committed to serving clients in Pembroke Pines, Hollywood, Miramar, Coral Springs, and beyond with dedication, diligence, and skills cultivated over decades of legal practice.

A confidential case review provides the opportunity to discuss your unique situation with a seasoned civil litigation and criminal defense attorney in Broward County, FL. Contact me for the guidance you need now to ensure that every aspect of the legal process proceeds as smoothly and favorably as possible.

Understanding Civil and Criminal Legal Issues in Broward County, FL

Civil litigation and criminal defense are different areas of law, but these distinct types of practice collide in circumstances such as:

A criminal offense, such as fraud, theft, or racketeering, leading to compensable losses for an alleged victim
A matter that initially begins as a civil dispute but escalates to criminal charges upon further investigation or police involvement
A business scandal that originates with white-collar crime activities
Criminal actions that constitute business interference, including theft of inventory or equipment

For these and other complex legal matters, having knowledge and experience practicing at the intersection of civil litigation and criminal defense law ensures comprehensive legal support. I advocate for clients all over Broward County, helping them achieve favorable outcomes in legal issues that can significantly affect their freedom, their financial wholeness, or their business operations.

Types of Cases Carlos F. Gonzalez, P.A., Handles in Broward County, Florida

As a Broward County civil and criminal lawyer, I bring a blend of legal knowledge to every case I handle. You can count on Carlos F. Gonzalez, P.A., to advocate for you and strategically pursue a favorable outcome in legal matters like the following.

Civil Litigation and Claims for Monetary Damages

Claims in civil court can quickly become complicated, especially when they involve factors such as multiple defendants and rules or legal actions in multiple jurisdictions. I handle numerous types of Broward County complex civil litigation cases, streamlining the legal process for my clients while fighting for the outcome that most fully compensates them.

Clients turn to my law firm when they need help with:

Broward County parallel proceedings: Managing strategy and legal arguments in separate cases filed in multiple courts but originating from the same incident
Broward County anti‑suit injunctions: Advocating for or against court orders to stop a case from moving forward
Broward County cross‑border disputes: Representing clients in matters that involve interstate and international litigation
Broward County civil fraud damages claims: Pursuing compensation for fraud victims who sustained financial losses
Broward County civil theft claims: Fighting for treble damages, as permitted under Florida law, for individuals and businesses affected by theft
Broward County civil RICO lawsuits: Handling claims for compensation against perpetrators of alleged racketeering activities
Broward County business fraud claims: Representing clients in civil litigation filed by alleged victims of deceptive business practices

Business Legal Dispute Representation

Broward County business disputes can take numerous forms. Whether you need help holding someone liable for interfering actions or for inaction in the form of failing to meet contractual responsibilities, I’m here to provide sound guidance throughout the legal process. Business dispute matters I handle include:

Broward County breach of contract cases: Lawsuits against one party involved in a business contract for failing to meet their obligations
Broward County defamation & disparagement lawsuits: Cases that pursue compensation for losses resulting from someone’s untrue statements about your company
Broward County partnership disputes: Legal support for addressing disagreements among business partners through means such as negotiations, lawsuits, and dissolution
Broward County tortious interference claims: Cases through which companies can pursue financial liability from third parties that cause someone bound by a contract to breach their obligations

Criminal Defense

As a Broward County criminal defense attorney, I’m a passionate advocate for people facing serious charges. I help my clients fight back against charges of sophisticated state and federal crimes, providing skilled representation and advice as early as the investigation stage, before charges have even been filed. I primarily focus on representing people accused of committing Broward County white‑collar crimes, such as:

Broward County wire fraud charges: Allegations of using the internet, phone networks, radio or television broadcasts, or other telecommunications systems to commit fraud
Broward County bank fraud charges: Deceptive schemes for personal or financial gain that target a financial institution or assets under its control
Broward County healthcare fraud charges: Accusations of providers or patients misrepresenting identification, medical conditions, or services to obtain unauthorized payments or benefits from a healthcare benefit program
Broward County tax fraud charges: Offenses pertaining to tax evasion or underpayment through intentional misrepresentations or concealment of assets or income
Broward County money laundering charges: Allegations of knowingly making financial transactions for the purpose of concealing the true sources of funds acquired through unlawful activities
Broward County conspiracy charges: Accusations of intentionally agreeing to commit a criminal offense with one or more other people

With my deep understanding of white-collar crimes, I’m also the attorney business leaders turn to for Broward County internal investigations. I know what to look for in identifying fraud and other types of white-collar crime within organizations, and I also provide the support companies need to manage the next steps and mitigate the consequences of an employee’s misconduct for their organization.

The legal system isn’t perfect. As an appellate attorney, I assist people in filing appeals when a legal or procedural error that occurred during their trial impacted the outcome in an unfair manner.

Civil Rights Litigation

Through Broward County civil rights litigation, it’s possible to hold police officers, public school officials, and others accountable for actions that violate your constitutional rights. I focus much of my practice in this area of law on Section 1983 claims, through which you can hold defendants at the state or local government level liable for losses related to civil rights violations under federal law.

Crisis Management & Communications

When businesses or individuals in Broward County face scandals and negative press, it helps to have an attorney on your side who is media-savvy as well as experienced in legal practice. Drawing on my experience in crisis management roles, I craft communications that tell my client's story advantageously while integrating these communications into your legal strategy.

Public Interest & Pro Bono

To me, the most fulfilling way to give back to the community of Broward County is through legal services that serve the public interest. In my pro bono practice, I represent defendants facing serious criminal charges, such as homicide, in trial and post-conviction matters at no cost or very low cost when they can’t afford legal representation at standard rates. For those who don’t qualify for pro bono services, I offer flexible fee arrangements to put legal guidance within reach.

Areas Served in Broward County, FL

Your case belongs in the hands of a Broward County civil and criminal lawyer who knows the ins and outs of local legal procedures and practices throughout the larger Miami metropolitan area. At Carlos F. Gonzalez, P.A., I represent clients from every community in Broward County, including:

Fort Lauderdale
Pembroke Pines
Hollywood
Miramar
Coral Springs
Pompano Beach
Davie
Sunrise
Plantation
Deerfield Beach
Lauderhill
Tamarac
Weston
Margate
Coconut Creek
North Lauderdale
Oakland Park
Hallandale Beach
Lauderdale Lakes
Parkland
Cooper City
Dania Beach

With extensive knowledge of the communities that make up Broward County, I’m prepared to manage civil and criminal matters informed by the unique business and legal practices of these areas.

What a Civil Litigation and Criminal Defense Attorney in Broward County, FL, Can Do for You

Having an experienced Broward County civil and criminal lawyer on your side can make a huge difference in how your legal matter progresses. In civil litigation, I can identify all potentially liable parties, build an effective claim for compensation, and fight for the full damages you’re entitled to under the law. When criminal charges arise, I provide dedicated representation throughout the investigation and all court proceedings, focusing on favorable outcomes such as dismissals of charges, not-guilty trial verdicts, and lighter sentences.

Without professional legal guidance, you’re facing a complex system where technicalities and procedural requirements could trip you up and undermine your case. For the clients I represent in both civil and criminal matters, I manage the demands of the legal process while advocating for favorable resolutions.

Why Choose Carlos F. Gonzalez, P.A. as Your Broward County Civil and Criminal Lawyer?

Having Carlos F. Gonzalez, P.A., representing you in a Broward County legal issue ensures diligent preparation for trial, counsel with extensive experience, and a focus on your needs.

Trial-Readiness for Every Case

Not every case in Broward County will go all the way to court, but every person involved in a legal matter should have that option available to them. I prepare every case I take on for the possibility of a trial, an approach which not only paves the way for success in the courtroom but also contributes to more favorable outcomes in out-of-court settlement efforts.

Experience Serving South Florida’s Legal Needs

I began my 25-year career in legal practice as an Assistant Public Defender in nearby Miami-Dade County. I continued to serve the South Florida community and beyond in my roles in civil litigation in large regional and international firms before establishing my private practice in 2015.

An Approach That Puts Clients First

I’m a dedicated advocate for the clients I serve, and I’m willing to travel to meet them at their homes, the hospital, or in jail. If needed, I’m even prepared to hop on a plane and fly to another city at a moment’s notice to represent clients who need me and to build their cases for success.

About Civil and Criminal Legal Matters in Broward County, Florida

The circumstances that give rise to legal issues can impact residents, workers, tourists, and businesses in Broward County, FL. I address the civil and criminal matters of various kinds involving individuals, companies, and incidents that happen here.

Many civil litigation cases in Broward County, as well as business disputes, involve companies with a significant presence here. Among the companies with headquarters in Broward County, FL, are Silver Airways, charter airline Locair, and, since April 2024, Spirit Airlines, along with numerous businesses in the agricultural sector, the hospitality industry, and other sectors.

If you’re suing a company in Broward County for breach of contract or business fraud, or if you’re the leader of a business based in this area seeking guidance for a business dispute of any kind, it helps to have an attorney on your side who understands the legal and economic landscape as well as local court procedures.

Criminal charges in Broward County can arise out of incidents occurring throughout the county. White-collar crimes, in particular, may involve companies located in the business districts on Las Olas Boulevard and the rest of downtown Fort Lauderdale or the Corporate Park of Coral Springs. Fraud charges can also arise out of incidents that allegedly occurred in residential neighborhoods, such as Weston, Parkland, Cooper City, and beyond.

Contact a Broward County Civil and Criminal Lawyer at Carlos F. Gonzalez, P.A., Today for a consultation

When you’re not sure how to handle a legal matter or what you need to do next to protect your rights, a consultation and case review with a knowledgeable attorney can provide much-needed guidance. I offer a compassionate listening ear, an objective assessment of your legal matter, and personalized initial feedback to help you move forward.

For help from a civil litigation and criminal defense attorney in Broward County, FL, contact Carlos F. Gonzalez, P.A., online or call 786-933-8794 today.

Broward County Civil Litigation and Criminal Defense