The Law Office of Jeffrey P. Cario, P.A.

Call: 352-448-0546

The Law Office of Jeffrey P. Cario, P.A.

Put Our Experience To Work For You

352-448-0546

Leveraging Our Experience

To Simplify Complex Legal Problems

Experienced Florida Criminal Defense

You have rights during a criminal investigation. To present a strong defense, you need the representation of a high-quality, experienced criminal defense attorney. This is when you need our team at Jeffrey P. Cario, P.A.

No matter what your issue is, our lawyers have the experience and know-how in local, state and federal courts. They help clients in Hernando, Pasco, Sumter, Pinellas, Hillsborough and Citrus counties.

An Experienced, Top-Rated Defense Team

Now – more than ever – a skilled defense is necessary to ensure a positive future. Jeffrey P. Cario, Kimberly A. Scarano and Olivia Belmont are skilled, experienced and proven lawyers in Florida criminal defense.

Because Jeffrey worked as an assistant state attorney for the Fifth Judicial Circuit in Hernando County, he knows what the prosecution will likely do. He also knows how to best defend clients against these tactics. An accomplished negotiator with proven courtroom ability, Jeffrey is AV Preeminent peer-review rated,* the highest rating, through Martindale-Hubbell and has been recognized as a top-rated lawyer in the Tampa Bay area. He has been selected for inclusion in Florida Super Lawyers in 2006, 2008 to 2011 and 2020 to 2024.

Kimberly has extensive experience with misdemeanor, felony and juvenile delinquency cases. She worked as a senior attorney for the Florida Department of Children and Families. Additionally, Kimberly was an assistant state attorney with the Sixth Judicial Circuit in Pasco County. Call 352-448-0546 to get immediate help.

Olivia has a background in criminology that she uses to defend her clients in criminal cases across the greater Tampa Bay area. Her zealous advocacy is an asset that you can rely on to protect your rights and fight for your freedom.

Skilled Representation In Many Types Of Charges

Our team can assist you with charges, from felonies to misdemeanors and traffic violations. Call us for help with:

  • Driving under the influence (DUI) and other drunk driving-related charges
  • Bond hearings/reductions
  • Family violence, domestic abuse charges
  • Violation of probation
  • Violation of injunctions
  • Drug offenses
  • Firearm and weapons charges
  • Burglary
  • Battery and violent crimes
  • Embezzlement
  • Forgery
  • Arson
  • Expungements and sealing records

You need legal representation immediately when you’re facing criminal charges. Schedule a consultation with a member of our team so that they can help you understand what you are facing and how they can help.

Clear Your Record Of A Criminal Conviction

Our attorneys understand how devastating a criminal record can be and how negatively it can affect your life. Through the expungement process, they can help return your record to the state it was in prior to an arrest, investigation or detention. While additional convictions and sex offender registration may prohibit you from expungement, there are several reasons to pursue clearing your record. These include:

  • The charges were dropped or dismissed.
  • You were acquitted of the charges.
  • You have an otherwise clean record.
  • You were a juvenile at the time of the crime.

A criminal record can create barriers to employment, housing and financial aid and can even affect your ability to parent. It is in your best interests to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney about clearing your record. Our lawyers will explain the expungement process thoroughly and advise you as to whether you would benefit from erasing a conviction. They also assist in sealing records. Schedule an initial consultation with our team.

Understanding Your Rights: Key Questions Answered

Navigating the complexities of criminal law can be overwhelming, especially when you find yourself facing charges. Knowing your rights and understanding the legal processes are crucial steps toward protecting your future. Our attorneys at Jeffrey P. Cario, P.A., are dedicated to providing clear, strong guidance through these critical moments. Below, they answer some of the most frequently asked questions about handling encounters with law enforcement and the potential consequences of an arrest.

Can I Refuse A Field Sobriety Test Or Breathalyzer Test?

When facing a request for a field sobriety test or a breath test during a traffic stop, you have the right to refuse these tests. However, it’s crucial to understand the implications of such a refusal. In Florida, refusal to submit to a breath test can result in immediate administrative penalties, including the suspension of your driver’s license. This is due to the state’s implied consent laws. While refusing may help avoid providing evidence that could be used against you in court, the penalties and the potential for an automatic suspension make it essential to consider your decision carefully.

Should I Speak To The Police Without A Lawyer Present?

It is generally advisable not to speak to the police without legal representation present. Anything you say to law enforcement can be used against you in court. Having an attorney by your side ensures that your rights are protected throughout the interrogation process. Our lawyers will strongly advocate on your behalf during any interaction with law enforcement to safeguard your rights and ensure that you do not inadvertently incriminate yourself.

Will I Go To Jail If I Am Arrested?

Being arrested does not necessarily mean you will go to jail. The specifics of your case, including the severity of the charges and your legal history, play significant roles in determining whether you will be held in jail pending trial. Bail may be an option, allowing you to remain free while awaiting court proceedings. Our lawyers at Jeffrey P. Cario, P.A., aggressively pursue all avenues to defend our clients’ freedom, including arguing for reduced bail or no bail and presenting a strong defense to ensure the best outcomes possible for our clients.

Get The Tough Defense You Need

At Jeffrey P. Cario, P.A., our team can help from the moment the police detain you. Don’t wait. Get assistance now. Call 352-448-0546 or reach out to us online.

*AV®, AV Preeminent®, Martindale-Hubbell Distinguished and Martindale-Hubbell Notable are certification marks used under license in accordance with the Martindale-Hubbell certification procedures, standards and policies. Martindale-Hubbell® is the facilitator of a peer-review rating process. Ratings reflect the anonymous opinions of members of the bar and the judiciary. Martindale-Hubbell® Peer Review Ratings™ fall into two categories – legal ability and general ethical standards.