Orlando Criminal Defense Lawyers
Former Prosecutor. Award-Winning Defense. Complimentary Consultation. Available 24/7.
If you were arrested in Orlando or believe you are under investigation, the decisions you make now can affect your freedom, your record, your job, and your future.
The Law Offices of Matthews R. Bark, P.A. defends people charged with crimes in Orlando, Orange County, and throughout Central Florida. Attorney Matthews R. Bark is a former Assistant State Attorney for the 18th Judicial Circuit and a former award-winning DUI prosecutor. The firm brings more than 20 combined years of experience to criminal defense, is available 24/7, and offers free consultations.
Call 407-865-8888 now for a free consultation.
Former Prosecutor Fighting for You
Attorney Matthews R. Bark spent two years prosecuting cases as an Assistant State Attorney for the 18th Judicial Circuit before transitioning to criminal defense. He was named MADD Prosecutor of the Year during his time as a prosecutor and has since built more than 20 years of combined experience representing clients in criminal cases across Orange, Seminole, Osceola, Volusia, and Brevard Counties.
That background matters in practice. Understanding how prosecutors evaluate evidence, what they need to prove, and where a case is weakest is different from simply knowing criminal statutes.
Why Clients Choose Us for Orlando Criminal Defense
Our firm holds a 10.0 Avvo rating, a Martindale-Hubbell Platinum Client Champion designation, Top 40 Under 40 Trial Lawyers recognition, Top 100 Criminal Defense Lawyers recognition, and more than 500 five-star reviews from clients across Central Florida.
- Former prosecutor insight into how criminal cases are built and challenged
- More than 20 combined years of experience in criminal defense
- A practice devoted entirely to litigation
- 24/7 availability and fast response
- Free consultations and payment plans
- A small, hands-on approach with direct attorney access throughout the case
Charged in Orlando or Orange County?
An arrest in Orlando can move quickly. Bond decisions, first appearances, arraignment dates, pretrial conditions, and early negotiations can all affect the direction of a case. Waiting too long to involve a defense lawyer can cost you opportunities.
We get involved early to review the facts, identify legal issues, challenge weak or unlawfully obtained evidence, and build a defense strategy around the best possible result. Depending on the case, that may mean seeking a dismissal, reduction, diversion-based outcome, negotiated resolution, or preparing for trial.
Orlando Criminal Charges We Handle
DUI Defense
Drug Crimes
Domestic Violence
Violent Crimes
Sex Crimes
White Collar Crimes
Probation Violations
Injunctions
How Criminal Cases Move Through Orange County
Criminal charges in Orlando are handled through the Ninth Judicial Circuit Court, which covers Orange and Osceola Counties. Cases move on a defined schedule. A first appearance typically occurs within 24 hours of arrest, where a judge reviews the probable cause affidavit and sets bond conditions. The bond amount and any conditions attached to release at that hearing can determine whether someone waits for trial at home or in custody.
After first appearance, cases proceed through arraignment, pre-trial hearings, and either a negotiated resolution or trial. Florida’s Criminal Punishment Code scores offenses using point values tied to charge severity and prior record. Those point totals establish recommended sentencing ranges that limit how much discretion a judge has at sentencing. Many charges also carry mandatory minimums that remove judicial discretion entirely.
A conviction can carry consequences that extend beyond the courtroom, including effects on professional licenses, employment opportunities, and other civil rights that vary by charge and circumstance. An attorney can help you understand what is at stake in your specific case before any decisions are made.
The window between arrest and the formal filing of charges is often where defense counsel can have the most impact. Prosecutors use this time to build their case, gather additional evidence, and finalize charging decisions. An attorney who enters during this phase can review the basis for the arrest, preserve favorable evidence, and in some cases influence how or whether certain charges are filed. Waiting until charges are formally filed means losing that window.
Criminal Defense for Orlando and Orange County Charges
What To Do After an Arrest in Orlando
If you have been arrested or contacted by law enforcement, what you do next matters.
Do not try to explain your way out of it. Do not assume the case will work itself out. Do not wait to see whether formal charges are filed before getting legal advice.
The sooner we get involved, the sooner we can review what happened, protect your rights, explain what comes next, and begin building your defense. Early action can make a real difference in how a case is charged, negotiated, and resolved.
Results and Reviews Matter
Our criminal defense practice is built around preparation, responsiveness, and strong advocacy. We have handled thousands of cases and earned hundreds of five-star reviews from past clients. Clients consistently mention responsiveness, preparation, professionalism, and strong advocacy when they describe their experience with our office.
Frequently Asked Criminal Defense Questions
Q: Do you offer free consultations?
Yes. We offer complimentary initial consultations.
Q: Are you available after hours?
Yes. We promote 24/7 availability and fast response for people dealing with urgent criminal matters.
Q: Do you offer payment plans?
Yes. Payment plans are available.
Q: Where is your office?
Our office is located at 999 Douglas Ave #3317, Altamonte Springs, FL 32714.
Q: What kinds of criminal cases do you handle?
We handle DUI, drug crimes, violent crimes, probation violations, injunction-related matters, and other serious criminal charges.
