Criminal Defense & Personal Injury Law
Team up with a Former Prosecutor with years of trial, courtroom, and negotiation experience to get the results you need. Attorney Andrew Buda will take the time to meet with you one-on-one so you understand your options and the best course of action to achieve your desired result.
TAMPA CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWYER
A Former Prosecutor Serving Hillsborough & Pinellas Counties
Practice Areas
We Can Handle a Variety of Legal Issues
A CLIENT-FOCUSED APPROACH
Read What They Have To Say
He has connections and relationships with the court systems, which are crucial in negotiations.
“He’s definitely a good choice if you want professional representation. I called him a day before my court date he was on time and fully prepared and he worked with me financially as well. He has lots ...”
- Former ClientHis knowledge and experience exceeded my expectations.
“Professional and excellent council. He made me feel like I was his only client. Very responsive to my needs and concerns. I highly recommend for your legal needs. His knowledge and experience exceeded ...”
- DamondLife Saver!
“Amazing attorney. Always available and very compassionate! Andrew’s name came to us through word of mouth from an individual who stated he saved his life, so far looks like he’s doing the same for us! ...”
- ShannonProfessional, honest, a straight talker, very responsive, good communication and was extremely efficient.
“Andrew Buda was professional, honest, a straight talker, very responsive, good communication and was extremely efficient in representing my case turning a stressful case that resulted in a very ...”
- CathiAndrew got the charges dropped even before it could go to trial.
“Mr. Andrew is one of the best lawyers you can find in the Tampa Bay Area. He is not gonna give you false promises, and he will get the job done. I have been to many lawyers before hiring him for my ...”
- HabiburTHE DIFFERENCE YOUR CASE NEEDS
Why Choose Our Firm?
- Former State Prosecutor
- Highly Responsive & Accessible
- Result-Oriented Advocacy
- We Prepare Every Case as if it's Going to Trial
- Personal Representation Centered Around You
- Exceptional Negotiator
WE FOCUS ON GETTING RESULTS
Handling Criminal Defense & Personal Injury Cases
At Buda Law, we know that the law can be overwhelming and impossible to understand. We are dedicated to providing you with the help you need to understand the law and make informed decisions that are in your best interest. Our Tampa criminal defense lawyer takes complex information and complicated details about your case and presents it in a way that is easy for you to comprehend and digest. This benefits not only you, the client, but also the judge or jury assigned to your case.
The law may be complicated, but your experience with Buda Law will not be. Attorney Andrew Buda maintains ongoing, open communication to keep clients in the loop at every stage of the process. Our firm is determined to fight for you tirelessly while serving you with care and compassion. We understand what you are going through and refuse to let law enforcement officials, prosecutors, insurance companies, and powerful corporations take advantage of you or violate your rights.
The sooner you have a plan in motion, the better your chances of achieving the results you want. Schedule a free consultation with us today.
MEET THE TEAM
Understanding Both Sides of the Courtroom
Let’s Discuss Your Case
Your Initial Consultation Is Free
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do?
The job of a criminal defense lawyer is to represent individuals accused of committing a crime, working to protect their legal rights and secure the best possible outcome for them throughout the legal process.
There is a lot that goes into this, but their main duties include investigating the case, gathering evidence, and analyzing the facts to build a strong defense. They also guide clients through court proceedings, negotiate with prosecutors for plea deals when appropriate, and advocate on their behalf during trials, using their legal knowledge and experience to minimize penalties, challenge evidence, and ensure their clients receive a fair trial.
Why Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
Hiring a criminal defense attorney can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. An experienced criminal defense lawyer understands the complexities of criminal law and can use this knowledge to navigate the legal system effectively, protecting your rights at every stage.
More specifically, a skilled defense lawyer will evaluate the evidence, identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case against you, and develop tailored defense strategies to achieve the best possible outcome—whether that's reducing charges, negotiating favorable plea deals, or fighting for dropped or dismissed charges or an acquittal at trial. Without proper legal representation, you may face harsher penalties or even a wrongful conviction.
Can a Criminal Defense Lawyer Go to Court For You?
A criminal defense lawyer can go to court on your behalf in many situations. For certain hearings, such as initial appearances, bail hearings, or pretrial conferences, your attorney can represent you without you being present, depending on the type of case and the court’s requirements. For more serious proceedings, however, like trials or certain plea hearings, your presence may be required alongside your lawyer.
How Much Does a Criminal Defense Attorney Cost?
The cost of hiring a criminal defense attorney can vary widely depending on factors like the complexity of the case, the attorney’s experience, and whether the case goes to trial. Some attorneys charge a flat fee for straightforward cases, while others use an hourly rate, especially for more complicated matters. Fees may range from a few thousand dollars for minor offenses to tens of thousands for serious felonies. It’s also important to consider the potential for extra costs for things like court fees, expert witnesses, and investigations.
The best way to gauge how much you can expect to pay for your unique case is to schedule a case evaluation with a local criminal defense lawyer. Tampa, FL-based attorney Andrew Buda of Buda Law provides clients with free consultations so they can discuss payment structures upfront and better understand the fees and associated costs that their case may entail.
How Do I Find the Best Criminal Defense Attorney Near Me?
To find the best criminal defense attorney for you, start by researching attorneys who specialize in criminal law and have experience handling cases similar to yours. You can start by doing a simple Google search for “criminal defense lawyer near me” or, more specifically, “criminal defense attorney Tampa” (or wherever you are located). Look for attorneys with a strong track record, good client reviews, and a reputation for success in the courtroom. You can also ask for recommendations from trusted friends or family who may have found themselves in a similar situation to you.
If you find a lawyer (or multiple lawyers) who seem like a good fit for your case, it’s important to schedule a consultation with them where you can discuss your case, ask about their experience, and get a sense of their approach. The best attorney for you will be someone who is knowledgeable, communicates well, and makes you feel confident in their ability to represent you.
What Questions Should I Ask My Criminal Defense Attorney?
When meeting with a criminal defense attorney, ask questions that help you understand their experience, approach, and how they can handle your case. Some good questions to ask include: How many cases like mine have you handled? What outcomes have you achieved in similar cases? What is your strategy for defending my case? How do you charge for your services, and what costs should I expect? How often will we communicate, and who will be handling most of the work on my case?
These questions can help you gauge the attorney's experience and ensure you're comfortable with their approach.
What Criminal Defense Services Does Buda Law Offer As A Criminal Defense Lawyer?
As an experienced Tampa criminal defense attorney, Andrew Buda of Buda Law provides aggressive defense in district, state, and federal courts. This includes all types of misdemeanor and felony crimes in Tampa, including violent crimes, sex crimes, drug crimes, white-collar crimes, DUIs, theft crimes, domestic violence crimes, juvenile crimes, cyber crimes, and more. He is also experienced in defending individuals against capital and life felonies in Florida.
In addition to fighting potential convictions, Buda Law can also help with expungements and record sealing for eligible individuals, helping them reclaim their future with a clean slate.
How Experienced is Andrew Buda as a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Handling Various Types of Cases?
Andrew Buda brings extensive experience in handling a wide range of criminal cases, from minor offenses to serious felonies. His in-depth knowledge of criminal law and years of courtroom experience allow him to effectively represent clients facing charges such as drug offenses, DUIs, homicides, and everything in between. Mr. Buda’s proven track record of successful case outcomes showcases his ability to provide strong, results-driven legal defense for his clients, no matter the charges they are facing.
Can a Criminal Defense Lawyer From Buda Law Assist with Felony and Misdemeanor Charges?
At Buda Law, our attorneys are equipped to defend clients facing both misdemeanors and felonies at either the state or federal level. With our thorough understanding of legal procedures and strategic approach to defense, a criminal defense attorney on our team can help ensure that each client receives the best possible defense regardless of the severity of the accusations.
What Services Does Buda Law Provide as a Criminal Defense Attorney?
As a skilled criminal defense lawyer, Tampa-based attorney Andrew Buda of Buda Law delivers strong representation in district, state, and federal courts. He handles a wide range of misdemeanor and felony cases in Hillsborough and Pinellas County, from domestic violence charges to DUIs to probation violations and beyond. He and his legal team can also represent clients facing criminal injunctions (restraining orders) and during pre-trial detention hearings, as well as assist eligible clients with expungements and record sealing, helping them move forward with a fresh start.
How Experienced is Andrew Buda as a Criminal Defense Attorney in Handling Complex Cases?
Andrew Buda brings a wealth of experience to even the most complex criminal cases. As a former prosecutor turned criminal defense attorney, his deep understanding of criminal law, coupled with years of successfully handling intricate legal matters, allows him to effectively defend clients facing serious charges. Whether it’s navigating complicated legal issues or developing strategic defenses, Andrew has the knowledge and skills to tackle high-stakes cases and achieve favorable outcomes for his clients.
How Soon Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney from Buda Law After an Arrest?
The sooner you hire a criminal defense lawyer from Buda Law for your case, the stronger your defense can be. Early legal representation allows the team to thoroughly investigate the facts, gather crucial evidence, and build a strategic defense right from the start. Acting quickly can also help in negotiating with prosecutors and potentially reducing charges before they escalate, giving you the best chance at a favorable outcome.