What is the difference between criminal and civil law?

Criminal defense refers to presenting arguments against criminal charges of violating the law. If convicted of these charges, you could face harsh sentences that include imprisonment, potentially for years. By putting forward an effective defense, you may be able to counter the prosecution’s case against you and demonstrate that the prosecutor has failed to prove your guilt as required by law. Civil litigation refers to non-criminal legal actions to hold a party accountable for losses caused by their conduct. Through a lawsuit, the plaintiff who sustained losses can seek financial compensation. Civil litigation proceeds through different procedures than criminal cases, and the outcome is generally a settlement or award that the defendant pays to the plaintiff.

When would I need an attorney who handles both civil and criminal law in Orlando?

Although civil and criminal cases are separate legal matters, they can sometimes arise out of the same incident. For example, a defendant facing criminal charges could also find themselves as a defendant in a civil claim for damages filed by an alleged victim. When the misconduct or wrongful actions of a defendant rise to the level of a crime, a case that initially begins as a civil matter may end up also having a criminal component that can affect the lawsuit. A business scandal arising out of white-collar fraud allegations can lead to both criminal charges and civil claims for damages. When civil and criminal law intersect, cases can get complicated. With comprehensive knowledge of both civil litigation and criminal defense practice, I’m prepared to not only handle either type of case but also to manage complex situations in which both civil and criminal components can impact one another.

What is the burden of proof in civil and criminal cases in Orlando, FL?

The burden of proof in a legal matter refers to who must prove their arguments or assertions to win a case and the level of proof required. In criminal matters, the prosecution is the one who bears the burden of proof. The prosecutor must prove the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, which is the highest standard, by providing compelling arguments backed by evidence. The burden of proof in civil cases falls on the plaintiff to establish that the defendant’s conduct was wrongful or negligent in some way and that it caused the plaintiff’s damages. The burden of proof in civil litigation is lower: either the preponderance of the evidence (which means that the plaintiff’s assertions are more likely to be true than not) or clear and convincing evidence, depending on the circumstances. As your attorney, I’m ready to help you meet this burden as the plaintiff or, as a defendant, to compile arguments in your favor and expose weaknesses in the prosecutor’s or plaintiff’s case against you.

Will my case go to trial?

Although most cases don’t go to trial, there’s always the possibility that going to court will offer you the most favorable path forward. I prepare every case for the possibility of a trial from the start, and I fight for my clients in court every single year. I’m willing to take your case as far as necessary, forcing the government to do its job by proving your guilt or demonstrating to defendants in civil claims for damages that you’re not willing to accept a settlement that’s less than you deserve just to avoid going to trial.

Orlando Civil and Criminal Lawyer | Civil Litigation and Criminal Defense Attorney Orlando FL

Strategic Civil Litigation and Criminal Defense Attorney in Orlando, FL

When disputes, criminal allegations, and other types of legal issues develop in Orlando, FL, how you approach the legal process matters. Having an Orlando civil and criminal lawyer at Carlos F. Gonzalez, P.A., on your side equips you to handle the challenges of the legal process, protect your rights, and minimize negative consequences.

I practice law throughout the city, assisting clients everywhere from Downtown Orlando’s Central Business District to Colonialtown, College Park, Dover Shores, Rosemont, and beyond. Contact my law firm today for a consultation with an experienced civil litigation and criminal defense attorney in Orlando, FL, and see for yourself the difference that professional legal guidance can make.

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

My role as an Orlando civil and criminal lawyer is to use my breadth and depth of knowledge to secure my clients the most favorable outcomes possible for a variety of different legal issues, including the following.

Civil Litigation

Just because a matter is filed in civil court doesn’t mean the case is easy or straightforward. It simply means that the dispute is non-criminal in nature, even if the cause of action involved criminal activity.

In my practice, I focus on Orlando complex civil litigation matters that demand skillful handling and attention to detail, such as:

Orlando anti‑suit injunctions: When your case involves more than one legal action filed in multiple jurisdictions, or in both civil and criminal court, I can not only assist you with the full matter but also motion for or fight against an anti-suit injunction that stops a case from moving forward.
Orlando cross‑border and international litigation: If your legal issue involves an incident that occurs in another jurisdiction or a company in another state or country, I’ll draw on my knowledge of international litigation to manage complications resulting from multiple sets of regulations and procedures.
Orlando civil fraud claims: In cases in which someone else’s intentional deceptions harmed you financially, I’m equipped to pursue maximum damages for you through the civil legal system in Florida.
Orlando civil theft lawsuits: A theft can cost you your property and so much more, but my unrelenting efforts in securing compensation for victims of theft can give rise to awards of treble damages permitted under Florida law.
Orlando civil RICO and business fraud cases: I also assist clients who are dealing with lawsuits filed by alleged victims over losses that purportedly resulted from racketeering activities and fraudulent business practices.

Business Legal Dispute Representation

When legal issues develop during the course of doing business, the right approach can significantly affect the outcome. I manage Orlando business disputes with an emphasis on protecting my clients’ rights and interests.

Orlando breach of contract claims: After someone you have a contractual agreement with has failed to uphold their end of the contract, I step in to hold that party accountable for your losses.
Orlando defamation and disparagement lawsuits: When someone makes untrue statements about your business and presents them as facts, it could hurt not only your company’s reputation but also its earnings. Suing for defamation or disparagement is your legal recourse.
Orlando business partnership disputes: From negotiating amicable resolutions to disagreements between business partners to fighting aggressively for you in court, I assist company leaders with complicated disputes and, when necessary, the dissolution process.
Orlando tortious interference claims: The party you have a contract with may not be the only one whose actions can lead to broken business agreements. In tortious interference cases, you can sue a third party for causing the other entity named in your contract to violate its terms or for other types of interference in your business.

Orlando Criminal Defense Services

In my Orlando criminal defense practice, I focus primarily on sophisticated forms of white‑collar crimes, such as:

Orlando healthcare fraud charges: I fight for those accused of using deception to obtain unauthorized medical services, benefits, or payments from a health benefit program, representing both patients and healthcare providers.
Orlando bank fraud charges: For individuals accused of credit card fraud, check kiting, or making false statements on loan applications, I present compelling arguments against charges that involve defrauding financial institutions.
Orlando tax fraud charges: In criminal charges of underpaying or failing to pay taxes at the federal or state level, I assist clients in challenging improperly obtained evidence and presenting arguments in favor of their defense.
Orlando wire fraud charges: If you’re accused of conducting any type of fraud by means of telecommunications systems such as the internet, phone networks, or radio or television broadcasts, I can prepare the most compelling defense possible for your unique situation.
Orlando money laundering charges: When you are facing charges of knowingly making financial transactions for the purpose of hiding the true source of money obtained through illegal activities, I develop strategies intended to defend against the crime of money laundering.
Orlando conspiracy charges: In situations in which just agreeing with another person to commit a crime constitutes an unlawful act under state or federal law, my representation can help you minimize the consequences of serious criminal charges.

Part of defending against white-collar criminal charges is knowing how to thoroughly investigate these cases. I use the same skills I employ in investigating the facts for clients I defend to also conduct Orlando internal investigations to help business leaders identify misconduct proactively.

I handle criminal defense matters at both the state and federal levels, as well as helping clients file appeals in situations in which some sort of legal or procedural error that occurred during their trial resulted in an unfavorable ruling.

Civil Rights Litigation

I assist victims of numerous types of violations, from discrimination and police excessive force, through my work handling Section 1983 claims and other types of Orlando civil rights litigation. I’ll be on your side to pursue not only fair compensation but also validation of your legal position and meaningful change in unfair systems and policies.

Crisis Management & Communications

When a legal issue in Orlando attracts media attention, the press coverage you receive can be negative, unfair, and often one-sided. Counter the criticism or allegations against you with a strategy that balances the protection of your legal rights with effective communications for crisis management situations.

Public Interest & Pro Bono Work

Legal practice should serve the public interest, not only the interests of the wealthy and powerful. Not only do I continuously focus my practice on representing the less influential and those with fewer resources, but I also provide pro bono services for those who qualify for this no-cost or low-cost legal assistance.

Areas Served in Orlando, FL

When you need a knowledgeable Orlando civil and criminal lawyer, Carlos F. Gonzalez, P.A., is the law firm to turn to. I represent plaintiffs in civil litigation, defendants facing criminal charges, and businesses involved in disputes throughout the 115 different neighborhoods Orlando, FL, is home to. The areas I serve include:

33rd Street Industrial
Airport North
Audubon Park
Azalea Park
Bal Bay
Baldwin Park
Bel Air
Beltway Commerce Center
Boggy Creek
Bryn Mawr
Callahan
Camellia Gardens
Carver Shores
Catalina
Central Business District
City of Orlando/GOAA
Clear Lake
College Park
Colonial Town Center
Colonialtown North
Colonialtown South
Conway
Countryside
Coytown
Crescent Park
Delaney Park
Dixie Belle
Dover Estates
Dover Manor
Dover Shores East
Dover Shores West
Eagles Nest
East Central Park
East Park
Education Village
Engelwood Park
Florida Center
Florida Center North
Haralson Estates
Hibiscus
Holden Heights
Holden/Parramore, including Griffin Park Historic District
Johnson Village
Kirkman North
Kirkman South
Lake Cherokee
Lake Como
Lake Copeland
Lake Davis/Greenwood
Lake Dot
Lake Eola Heights
Lake Fairview
Lake Formosa
Lake Fredrica
Lake Holden
Lake Mann Estates
Lake Mann Gardens
Lake Nona Central
Lake Nona Estates
Lake Nona South
Lake Richmond
Lake Shore Village
Lake Sunset
Lake Terrace
Lake Underhill
Lake Weldona
Lancaster Park
LaVina
Lawsona/Fern Creek
Lorna Doone
Malibu Groves
Mariners Village
Mercy Drive
MetroWest
Millenia
Monterey
Narcoossee South
New Malibu
North Orange, including Rosemere Historic District
NorthLake Park at Lake Nona
Orlando Executive Airport
Orlando International Airport
Orwin Manor
Palomar
Park Central
Park Lake/Highland
Pershing
Pineloch
Princeton/Silver Star
Randal Park
Richmond Estates
Richmond Heights
Rio Grande Park
Rock Lake
Roosevelt Park
Rose Isle
Rosemont
Rosemont North
Rowena Gardens
Seaboard Industrial
Signal Hill
South Division
South Eola
South Orange
South Semoran
Southeastern Oaks
Southern Oaks
Southport
Spring Lake
Storey Park
Sunbridge
The Dovers
The Willows
Thornton Park
Timberleaf
North Quarter
Ventura
Vista East
Vista Park
Wadeview Park
Washington Shores
Wedgewood Groves
West Colonial
Westfield
Williamsburg
Windhover

I also serve the rest of Orange County, Florida, including the cities of Apopka, Ocoee, and Winter Garden.

What a Civil Litigation and Criminal Defense Attorney in Orlando, FL, Will Do for You

As an Orlando civil and criminal lawyer, I handle every aspect of my clients’ cases with one goal: to achieve the most favorable outcome possible for each unique situation. That means:

Conducting an in-depth investigation of the facts to gather all evidence that supports your case
Developing a customized legal strategy based on your individual circumstances
Presenting compelling arguments in your favor out of court and, if necessary, in court
Representing you in all legal proceedings involved in your case
Handling deadlines, legal filings, and procedural requirements to preserve your rights

Once I agree to represent your interests, I’m fully invested in your cause and the outcome of your case. I don’t shy away from difficult cases, including those that involve highly publicized media scandals, legal challenges, and other complexities.

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

Choosing Carlos F. Gonzalez, P.A., to represent you means choosing to put your case in the capable hands of a trial attorney with extensive experience in civil and criminal law and a thorough understanding of crisis management communications.

A Trial Lawyer, Not Just a Litigator

I believe the best results always come from preparing for the possibility of trial, regardless of whether an individual case resolves through settlement or in court. I prepare every case, no matter how big or how small, for the possibility of a trial and demonstrate to the opposing party that you’re willing to take the case as far as necessary.

A Breadth of Knowledge and Experience

As a former Assistant Public Defender in Miami-Dade County who subsequently worked in civil litigation departments of major regional and international law firms, I have comprehensive knowledge of legal practice throughout Florida. I’ve defended clients against charges ranging from misdemeanors to homicides, represented individuals and businesses in both state and federal court proceedings, and handled civil litigation matters both within Florida and internationally.

Legal Assistance That Integrates Crisis Management

Your legal issue may very well constitute a crisis for your reputation or your company’s public image. My representation inside and outside the courtroom is also informed by my background as a crisis manager. I view any opportunity to tell my client’s story as a good one, and I strategically present carefully crafted responses to allegations, criticism, and one-sided media coverage.

About Legal Issues in Orlando, FL

Many of the matters I handle as an Orlando civil and criminal lawyer, from criminal charges of white-collar offenses to civil claims for damages arising out of fraud, involve businesses in Orlando’s Central Business District (which includes the Downtown Historic District) and beyond. Orlando is a major hub where businesses of various sizes maintain a significant presence, with many of them headquartered in the city or the surrounding region.

I help individuals and small businesses manage the legal process with confidence, regardless of whether their case involves businesses in the hospitality industry, the transportation industry, financial services, healthcare, or numerous other sectors.

Of course, legal issues also arise in residential neighborhoods of Orlando, such as Lake Nona, Winter Park, Lake Eola Heights, Oviedo, and Audubon Park. Whether you’re seeking to hold accountable a perpetrator who defrauded you on your property or you’re accused of carrying out fraudulent schemes from your own home computer, you need an attorney on your side who understands the unique landscapes, legal and financial, that exist in communities throughout Orlando.

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

Your case begins with a confidential consultation. I’m here to listen, to ask the questions needed to gain an understanding of your unique situation, and to provide objective, actionable initial feedback to help you move forward.

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

Orlando Civil Litigation and Criminal Defense