Can a lawyer do both criminal and civil cases?

While many attorneys in Key West and the surrounding area only have the experience to handle one type of law, I have a long history of practice in both criminal defense and civil litigation, having worked as both an Assistant Public Defender and a civil litigation practitioner at large regional and international firms. This dual experience is particularly valuable in instances in which civil and criminal matters overlap. An attorney with only one area of knowledge may struggle to anticipate how these related issues may impact one another or to build a strategy that balances the needs of both legal actions. My experience ensures that I can fully address cases like this from every angle.

What roles in the courtroom give lawyers unique perspectives?

Any case could potentially proceed to trial, so it’s important to choose an attorney who is prepared to fight for you in court if necessary but who also recognizes the potential downsides of a trial. You need an attorney who has plenty of courtroom experience. Many private-practice criminal defense attorneys highlight their experience as a former prosecutor, but in this role, they are pursuing entirely the opposite outcome of what you hope your defense attorney will achieve. I bring to every case the valuable experience I gained in the courtroom as an Assistant Public Defender, instead. In this role, I acquired firsthand experience taking on prosecutors. I learned how the government approached cases and built arguments, but from the perspective of a defense attorney. My experience as a former Assistant Public Defender allowed me to not only become familiar with courtroom procedures in South Florida but also to learn how to successfully pick apart a prosecutor’s case.

How does understanding courtroom dynamics help a lawyer's negotiation strategies?

Although I’m always willing to fight for my clients in court, I recognize that many cases can be favorably resolved through negotiations. Negotiating a favorable outcome can help you reduce the time it takes to resolve your case, the costs associated with the legal process, and the risks that going to trial can pose. My strategy of preparing every case for the possibility of a trial, which draws on my thorough knowledge of courtroom dynamics and procedures, helps support favorable case outcomes out of court as well as in trial. By understanding how a prosecutor, opposing attorney, judge, or jury will likely view a situation, I can anticipate challenges and develop proactive strategies to counter them. I won’t be caught off guard, either at the negotiation table or in court, because I know how to prepare as fully as possible. Because I can anticipate the opposing side’s weaknesses in court and how I would address them before a judge or jury, I can often present a compelling argument for the other party to agree to a fair and reasonable settlement.

How does a lawyer's reputation affect settlements?

Having an attorney who is known and respected by opposing counsel, insurance companies, judges, and other parties involved in the legal process or community can positively impact your case. If the other side recognizes that your counsel is a formidable opponent in court yet advocates for clients in negotiations as a reasonable and resourceful problem-solver, they are more likely to cooperate in negotiating a settlement that aligns with your priorities. On the other hand, if your lawyer is perceived by the other side as someone who is reluctant or unprepared to take your case to trial, who lacks credibility or ethics, or who takes unreasonably adversarial positions in negotiations, the opposing party is often less willing to work to achieve a resolution out of court. You want your case in the hands of a highly respected law firm such as Carlos F. Gonzalez, P.A.

Key West Civil and Criminal Lawyer | Civil Litigation and Criminal Defense Attorney Key West FL

Trusted Civil Litigation and Criminal Defense Attorney in Key West, FL

While Key West is widely known for the scenic beaches and vibrant culture that attract tourists from all over the world, there’s a far less glamorous side that people and small businesses facing legal trouble encounter. Whether you suffered theft- or fraud-related losses while on vacation or are accused of committing a white-collar crime in the course of your work in this region, trying to navigate the situation on your own is a mistake. With the insights and dedicated representation of Carlos F. Gonzalez, P.A., you’re protected by a Key West civil and criminal lawyer with a track record of success.

I offer confidential consultations to help those in legal trouble understand their rights, their options, and what’s at stake. It costs you nothing to tell your story to an experienced attorney who will actually listen to your situation and provide initial guidance customized to your unique circumstances. To get started, contact my law firm today.

Types of Cases Carlos F. Gonzalez, P.A., Handles in Key West

Practicing where civil litigation and criminal law intersect, I take on complex cases for plaintiffs suing for compensation, defendants accused of white-collar violations, and businesses locked in disputes that are difficult to resolve. Find out what a Key West civil and criminal lawyer can do to help you through a tricky legal situation.

Civil Claims for Monetary Damages

My practice of Key West complex civil litigation primarily involves suing for damages on behalf of people harmed by others’ wrongful actions, including theft, fraud, and more.

Key West civil theft claims: In claims on behalf of theft victims in Key West, I pursue everything my clients are entitled to, which, under Florida law, can encompass triple their actual losses.
Key West civil fraud cases: I help targets of fraudulent schemes recover financial compensation through a civil claim that’s separate from any criminal charges against the perpetrator.
Key West civil RICO & business fraud lawsuits: RICO and business fraud lawsuits are filed by alleged victims of racketeering, organized criminal activities, and deceptive business practices.
Key West cross‑border & international litigation: If your case involves another party that’s based out of state or even in another country, my knowledge of international litigation and cross-border legal procedures can help support a favorable resolution.
Key West anti‑suit injunctions: Complex cases that involve both civil and criminal components or cases in multiple jurisdictions may lead to parallel proceedings. I assist my clients with the entirety of their legal issues, sometimes filing anti-suit injunctions or fighting these petitions to stop legal actions from proceeding.

Business Legal Dispute Representation

Whether you’re part of a business based here in Key West or involved in a dispute with such a company, the outcome of these issues is critical. You need to protect your rights and your financial interests, and that means having legal support and professional insights to address Key West business disputes.

I assist clients with business-related legal issues such as:

Key West breach of contract disputes: When someone you have a business agreement with has failed to live up to the terms of their contract, I can pursue legal action and financial compensation on your behalf.
Key West defamation & disparagement cases: Words can make an impact on your business. I hold people accountable for false and damaging statements that can harm your company’s public image or its financial performance.
Key West tortious interference claims: If a third party has intentionally kept someone with whom you have a business agreement from fulfilling their contractual obligations, I can seek compensation for your business.
Key West partnership disputes and dissolution: When company owners disagree on big-picture matters, legal support can be the key to finding a resolution. I work to negotiate agreements amicably when possible and fight for clients in litigation and in court when necessary. I also guide business owners through the dissolution process.

Criminal Defense

Defending against criminal accusations demands a thorough investigation, a calculated legal strategy, and constant advocacy. I focus my Key West criminal defense practice primarily on charges involving white‑collar crimes like the following.

Key West bank fraud charges: If you’re accused of carrying out a deceptive scheme targeting financial institutions for personal gain, I can help you fight back.
Key West healthcare fraud charges: For patients or providers alleged to have deceptively obtained unauthorized payments, benefits, or services from a health benefit system, I defend against serious criminal accusations.
Key West wire fraud charges: When you’re accused of using the internet, phone networks, or radio or television broadcasts to facilitate a fraudulent scheme, I can help you present the most effective defense possible.
Key West tax fraud charges: If you’re facing allegations of tax evasion at the federal or state level, I’m here to build the strongest possible arguments in your defense.
Key West money laundering charges: For individuals accused of trying to conceal the source of unlawfully obtained funds, I develop strategies and arguments that address this complex criminal charge.
Key West conspiracy charges: When you’re accused of entering into an agreement to violate the law, I can assist you in picking apart the prosecution’s case.

The same knowledge and skills I use to investigate the charges against my clients also prove valuable in the Key West internal investigations I conduct to help business leaders proactively identify embezzlement, fraud, and other misconduct.

Many white-collar offenses can be charged as federal crimes in addition to violations of state statutes. I have experience fighting for my clients in both state and federal courts, as well as handling appeals when necessary.

Civil Rights Litigation

Discrimination, police brutality, unlawful search and seizure, and numerous other types of rights violations can provide grounds to take legal action against the perpetrator. I can help individuals whose rights have been violated hold state and local government officials accountable for civil rights violations through Section 1983 claims and explore other options for taking legal action against parties such as employers and landlords.

Crisis Management

Having experience as both an attorney and a crisis manager, I understand how important it is to tell your story strategically both in the courtroom and in the context of the media. I provide legal representation informed by crisis communications practices so that every maneuver or media appearance protects your reputation and your legal rights as effectively as possible.

Public Interest Work

Individuals who can’t afford standard legal fees may be eligible to receive no-cost or low-cost assistance. I maintain a large pro bono practice focused on criminal defense representation for people facing trial for serious charges and for post-conviction advocacy.

Areas Served in Key West, Florida

As an experienced civil litigation and criminal defense attorney in Key West, FL, I serve clients throughout every neighborhood of the city, including:

Key West Historic District
Old Town
Bahama Village
Casa Marina
Duval Street
Historic Seaport
The Meadows
Midtown
New Town
Poinciana Plaza
Truman Annex
Trumbo Point
Upper Duval
White Street Gallery District
Key West Golf Club
Fleming Key (Stock Island)
College Road
Sunset Key (Tank Island)
Sigsbee Park (Dredgers Key)

My reach as a practitioner of civil litigation and criminal defense extends to broader Monroe County and throughout South Florida. I serve clients facing challenging and complex legal issues where they need help.

Situations That Demand the Knowledge and Skills of a Civil Litigation and Criminal Defense Attorney in Key West, FL

When would you need to hire an attorney who has extensive experience in both litigation and defense? Any time you are facing a complex legal issue involving either of these areas of practice or a matter where civil and criminal law overlap, it’s helpful to have trusted guidance on your side. As a Key West civil and criminal lawyer, I often assist clients in circumstances like the following:

Civil claims for financial compensation arising out of losses related to fraud, theft, or other types of white-collar criminal schemes
Complicated civil legal actions that involve parallel proceedings in different courts, anti-suit injunction petitions, or regulations and procedures in various jurisdictions
Defenses against claims for compensation involving alleged violations of racketeering or deceptive business practices
Defenses against charges of white-collar crime, including money laundering and various types of fraud
Defenses against select other types of criminal charges that carry harsh penalties, such as homicide
Dispute resolution, through settlement, litigation, or trial, involving business matters such as breach of contract and disagreements between business partners
Claims for compensation against individuals or organizations that made defamatory or disparaging statements or interfered in your business operations
Cases involving the legal dissolution of a business partnership and help navigating this process
Claims against government actors or certain private individuals and organizations (such as employers or landlords) for unlawful procedures, discrimination, and other civil rights violations

For help managing the most complex legal issues and assistance developing the most sophisticated strategies, turn to Carlos F. Gonzalez, P.A.

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

Throughout the region, individuals and small businesses in need of a Key West civil and criminal lawyer trust Carlos F. Gonzalez, P.A. with their cases. Influencing their choice is my trial-readiness, my focus on representing the proverbial “little guy,” and my unwavering advocacy both in court and in the public eye.

Willingness to Take Your Case as Far as Necessary

As a trial lawyer with plenty of courtroom experience, I’m ready to take your case to court if that path offers you the best chance of a favorable resolution. I prepare every case for a potential trial, and this approach helps secure successful outcomes through settlements or in court.

Dedication to Helping Clients Take on Powerful Opponents

I’m here to help individuals who have been attacked for their views, small businesses that have been unfairly harmed, plaintiffs who have sustained significant losses, and criminal defendants accused of crimes that carry life-changing penalties. I don’t shy away from standing up to large corporations, influential prosecutors, and other powerful opposing parties.

Strong Advocacy in the Legal Process and Crisis Communications

When you need legal counsel who will stand by your side not only in the courtroom but also before the media, you need Carlos F. Gonzalez, P.A. Drawing on a background that includes crisis management as well as legal practice, I position my clients’ cases strategically and tell their stories in ways that help preserve their reputation with the public as well as protecting their legal rights.

About Criminal Charges and Civil Litigation in Key West, FL

In and around Key West, numerous circumstances can give rise to legal issues. I have built a career fighting for my clients in a variety of matters that require careful handling, unwavering advocacy, and knowledge of complex areas of law. Cases I often handle in Key West include:

Cross-border litigation disputes involving companies in the passenger cruise industry, where Key West is a major port of call
Criminal fraud and money laundering charges and civil claims arising out of theft and fraud that pertain to operations in Key West’s central business district along Duval Street and throughout the northwest region of the island
Disputes involving businesses operating in the tourism industry, which is one of the major drivers of the region’s economy

By practicing at the intersection of civil litigation and criminal defense in Key West, I’m here to help clients make sense of complicated situations that span both areas of law and, often, involve some ties to the tourism industry or to business operations in this community.

Contact a Key West Civil and Criminal Lawyer at Carlos F. Gonzalez, P.A., Today for a Case Evaluation

It costs you nothing to explore your legal options and find out what an experienced attorney can do for you. During your consultation, I will listen to your unique situation, provide initial feedback on your legal needs and options, and ensure you understand your rights and what to expect from the legal process.

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

Key West Civil Litigation and Criminal Defense