Researching a Criminal Defense Attorney in Tampa

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Don’t Follow the Cones: How to Choose the Right Criminal Defense Attorney

Brancato Law Firm, P.A.

September 15, 2025

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Shady guy directing people to his bad parking spot with a cone

When you go to a fair, concert, or sporting event, you often see people waving lighted cones to direct you into their parking lots. Many drivers pull in right away. The problem is, those early stops often lead to the worst spots at the highest prices. People who drive a little further—or who know the best lots ahead of time—usually end up with cheaper, closer, and more convenient parking. Hiring a Tampa criminal defense attorney is no different. The first lawyer you see may not be the right one. If you stop too soon, you may pay more and get less. Careful research can help you find the attorney who is truly the best fit for your case.

Why Rushing Into a Choice Can Hurt Your Case

Quick decisions often lead to poor results. Attorneys who focus on volume may not give your case the attention it deserves. Others rely on flashy marketing but lack the courtroom experience needed for complex charges. Choosing too quickly can leave you feeling like you pulled into the wrong lot.

Ask People Who Know the System

At events, people who have been there before know which parking lots are best. The same is true in the legal world. Attorneys, judges, and other professionals often know which lawyers are skilled, reliable, and respected. Asking around can help you avoid a mistake.

What to Look for When Researching a Criminal Defense Attorney in Tampa

Before choosing a Tampa criminal defense attorney, slow down and do your homework. The right attorney will stand out when you review:

Qualifications and credentials – education, training, and specialized experience.
Case history – proven results in cases like yours.
Client reviews – insight into how the attorney treats people.
Background and reputation – respect in the legal community matters.

The Brancato Law Firm, P.A.: The Prime Spot

Think back to the best parking lots at an event. They’re not the ones marked by flashing cones. They’re the ones closest to the entrance, with fair prices, clear spaces, and attendants who look after guests who need extra assistance.

That’s how The Brancato Law Firm, P.A. approaches Tampa criminal defense. Attorney Rocky Brancato personally oversees every case, directing strategy and ensuring no detail is overlooked. With more than 25 years of experience, including years in an elite sex crimes unit, he brings the insight of a seasoned trial lawyer while guiding a team committed to protecting clients’ futures. To learn more about how to choose the best criminal defense attorney, read Rocky’s free book, How to Choose a Major Crimes Attorney – or Any Criminal Defense Attorney for that Matter.

When your freedom is at stake, you deserve the legal equivalent of the prime parking spot—personalized strategy, experienced oversight, and a lawyer who cares about where you end up.

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...

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.