Articles Posted in Criminal Defense

Rocky Brancato in his office in Tampa

Meet Rocky Brancato

For over 25 years, Rocky Brancato has been a prominent force in Tampa Bay’s legal arena. Rocky rose to second-in-command at Tampa Bay’s largest defense firm before launching Brancato Law Firm, P.A. As a former specialized major crimes attorney for serious offenses like...
Is it Legal to Film Police in Tampa, Florida?
Brancato Law Firm, P.A.

Can you legally record the police in Tampa? Yes—but a new Florida law that went into effect on January 1, 2025, now makes it easier to get arrested for doing so. If you film law enforcement or emergency responders and don’t follow the new rules, you could face criminal charges—even if you’re standing on public…

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The Constitutional Right to a Speedy Trial: Now Your Primary Defense in Florida
Brancato Law Firm, P.A.

By The Brancato Law Firm, P.A. | Updated 2025 If you are facing criminal charges in Tampa or Hillsborough County, you likely feel like your case is dragging on forever. Months—or even years—can pass before you get your day in court. Even though Florida’s speedy trial rule has been gutted, you still enjoy a constitutional…

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Motion to Suppress Evidence in Tampa: What Defendants Need to Know
Brancato Law Firm, P.A.

Why Suppressing Evidence Can Change Your Case When facing criminal charges in Tampa, Hillsborough County, or the surrounding areas, the evidence against you often determines whether the prosecution can move forward. But if the police obtained that evidence illegally, it may be excluded from court. This is where a Tampa attorney for motions to suppress…

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Contempt of Court in Florida: What Tampa Defendants Need to Know
Brancato Law Firm, P.A.

The Brancato Law Firm, P.A. | Updated January 19, 2026 If you are facing a contempt of court allegation in Tampa, the consequences can be far more serious than a simple warning from a judge. Tampa Criminal Defense Attorney Rocky Brancato and The Brancato Law Firm, P.A. have spent more than 25 years defending clients…

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Hillsborough County Probation Violation Process: Bond & Hearings Guide
Brancato Law Firm, P.A.

You answer the phone, and the news is devastating. A loved one has been arrested for a Violation of Probation (VOP) and is sitting in the Orient Road or Falkenburg Road Jail. Unlike a new arrest, they haven’t been released. They are likely being held with “No Bond.” Families often panic because the rules for…

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Tampa Attorney for Violation of Probation
Brancato Law Firm, P.A.

Facing a probation violation can be overwhelming, but you are not without options. Florida law provides several defenses to fight probation revocation, and understanding these legal strategies can make a critical difference in your case. This post will discuss defenses to violation of probation. Click the link to learn more about the violation of probation…

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Tampa Bond Hearing Attorney: Aggressive Advocacy for Pretrial Release in Hillsborough County
Brancato Law Firm, P.A.

Bail is your constitutional right—not a punishment. The right attorney can mean the difference between waiting for trial at home or behind bars. KEY TAKEAWAY Under the Florida Constitution and Florida Statute § 903.046, you are entitled to pretrial release on reasonable conditions unless charged with a capital offense. Courts must consider your financial resources…

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Tampa Aggravated Child Abuse Attorney
Brancato Law Firm, P.A.

A complete, expert-driven medical records review is one of the most powerful tools in defending child abuse charges—and it’s often the difference between conviction and dismissal ⚠ THE STAKES IN AGGRAVATED CHILD ABUSE CASES Aggravated child abuse is a first-degree felony in Florida, punishable by up to 30 years in prison. Even if acquitted, the…

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 Florida Medical Marijuana Transportation Laws
Brancato Law Firm, P.A.

What Tampa Patients Need to Know About Paraphernalia and Transport Rules Key Takeaway for Tampa Patients In Williams v. State (October 2025), the Second District Court of Appeal ruled that the odor of cannabis alone is no longer enough to establish probable cause for a vehicle search in Tampa and Hillsborough County. As Florida continues…

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Florida Self-Defense Laws and Stand Your Ground
Brancato Law Firm, P.A.

Understanding Your Rights Under Florida Statutes 776.012, 776.013, 776.031, and 776.032 — And How to Protect Them Key Takeaway: Florida’s Self-Defense Protections Florida law allows you to stand your ground and use force—including deadly force—without retreating when you reasonably believe it is necessary to prevent imminent death, great bodily harm, or a forcible felony. Moreover,…

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What Our Clients Are Saying

Rocky Brancato was able to provide me with legal help that I didn't even imagine was possible. Because of his experience and knowledge he got me life changing results and that is no exaggeration. Rocky has an in depth knowledge of his field, decades of experience, and...

E. M.

Rocky is the best lawyer. He believed in me when no one else did. He fought hard, and did not stop working until he found the evidence we needed to win my case and clear my name. When he took on my case, it had been already ongoing for quite some time, many other lawyers turned...

Molly G.

I had an excellent experience working with Rocky Brancato during an extremely stressful and sensitive situation involving false allegations. From the very beginning, Rocky provided clear, sound advice and took the time to truly listen to all of my concerns without ever...

David E

Rocky is a great lawyer. He jumped on my case and provided almost instant results. He communicated well and made sure we understood our options and the next steps. 5 stars!!!

Jasmine

I don’t even know how to start writing this. This man saved me from something I didn’t do. He’s the best.. thank you thank you .

Jonathan S.

Mr. Brancato deserves five stars from day one. He went over and beyond for me. He doesnt just handle small cases I was facing a trafficking fentanyl charge for something that I didnt do and Mr. Brancato got all of my charges dropped. He is a great attorney. He answered any...

Andrea M

Rocky Brancato is diligent, trustworthy, with an extraordinary human and professional quality, a gift for people and integrity. All these virtues make him an invaluable attorney. Rocky Brancato has been with our family since day one of this stressful, unfair, and overwhelming...

Lein L.

Rocky was exceptional at providing legal advice and was taking proactive steps throughout the process to assist in my legal matters. Fantastic service and results.

Javier L.

ROCKY IS GREAT HE DID IT TWICE FOR MY FIANCÉ

Mantha W.

I would recommend Mr. Brancato to absolutely anybody. I have been fighting this specific case for about 4 years now and he was able to set time aside to accommodate and was able to get the charges dismissed in less than a WEEK. I can’t thank him enough, and anybody in the Tampa...

Kellz C.

The rare lawyer with a heart Mr. Brancato not only proved his legal acumen, but he did so with genuine empathy and caring. I felt he was personally invested in my success, and acted above and beyond my expectations. He kept me informed all steps of the process, and was upfront...

I.

Mark my words, THIS IS THE BEST LAWYER I’ve ever had the chance to meet and it’s been a pleasure and a major blessing to have him, i had a very difficult case but in less then 5 business day he took the weight of a planet off my shoulders . He goes above and beyond and then did...

Yian V.

Great attorney ! Handled client with care and answered all concerns! Thank you so much !!! A Hard worker is this guy! Thank You for all you did for my fiancé!

Kailyn B.

Rocky Brancato was knowledgeable, responsive, and very professional throughout the entire process. I highly recommend this law firm.

Noel F.

Rocky was the best lawyer i have recieved! He always kept me updated and talked me through everything i couldnt have asked for a better lawyer! Hoping i never have to use him again but he is my go to!! Thank yu rocky it was a pleasure

Lucciano Carmelo

I felt very lucky to be represented by brancato law firm Never had any issues with communication or help with resources and made the whole process easier to navigate Very greatfull he helped me reach the best outcome

Logan Traun

Atty Rocky Brancato is an excellent attorney. He genuinely cares about his clients. You would not find anyone else as compassionate and talented as he is as a lawyer. I would 100% recommend him.

Ana R.

Rocky is an excellent attorney! He demonstrates his passion, dedication and strong work ethic for every single case he accepts. He always go that extra mile to gain his clients trust and satisfaction. Highly recommended!

Bryan N.

Great Lawyer

Joe C.

Thank you for everything!

Kali L.

Attorney Brancato was phenomenal. If I could give him more than 5 stars I would. Very professional, polite, and just overall AMAZING. The only one that actually took the time to help me with a specific case I had for the past few years. I can’t begin to thank him enough.

Keelie

Our family had a great experience with Attorney Rocky Brancato. I wish I could give him more than five stars!

Lola J.

Very thorough and willing to help. I’m glad I chose to contact this office. I always worry about being given the run around but not here I was even given a call back to be sure that he didn’t miss anything. Thanks A+

Mark D.

Rocky went out of his way to help me. he is a very good man

David N.

Attorney Rocky Brancato of the Brancato Law Firm, P.A. Delivered on short notice in our family’s time of need. Fast response, humble and affordable.

Jose V.

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