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Hillsborough County Criminal Defense Attorney | Brancato Law Firm, P.A.

Tampa Criminal Defense Attorney Rocky Brancato has defended clients in Hillsborough County courts for over 25 years. As the former Chief Operations Officer and Chief Assistant Public Defender of the Hillsborough County Public Defender’s Office, Rocky knows every courtroom and every judge in the Thirteenth Judicial Circuit. Moreover, he understands every procedural nuance in this system. Consequently, The Brancato Law Firm, P.A. brings that foundation of deep local knowledge and aggressive trial advocacy to every Hillsborough County criminal case.

If you or someone you love is facing criminal charges anywhere in Hillsborough County—from downtown Tampa to Brandon, Plant City, Temple Terrace, or Ruskin—your case receives senior-level attorney attention led by Rocky Brancato, who has tried over 150 jury trials in the same courthouse where your case will be heard.

FACING CRIMINAL CHARGES IN HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY?

Tampa Criminal Defense Attorney Rocky Brancato and The Brancato Law Firm, P.A. provide free, confidential consultations 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Notably, Rocky holds an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell and Super Lawyers recognition. With over 25 years defending Hillsborough County residents, your case is in experienced hands.

Call your Hillsborough County criminal defense attorney at (813) 727-7159 now. Indeed, the earlier you contact a criminal defense attorney, the more options you have. Therefore, protect your rights and your future by acting quickly.

Why Hiring a Hillsborough County Criminal Defense Attorney Matters

Choosing the right Hillsborough County criminal defense attorney starts with understanding that criminal defense is local. In fact, every county in Florida operates differently—different prosecutors, different judicial preferences, different diversion programs, and different plea negotiation cultures. Hillsborough County is one of the largest and busiest judicial circuits in Florida, and the Thirteenth Judicial Circuit has its own rules, timelines, and courtroom expectations that out-of-county attorneys simply do not know.

Rocky Brancato developed his career inside the Hillsborough County criminal justice system. As the former Chief Operations Officer and Chief Assistant Public Defender, he managed hundreds of attorneys. He also oversaw the defense of thousands of cases in Hillsborough County courts. As a result, that institutional knowledge translates directly into defense strategy. He knows which arguments resonate with specific judges and understands how each prosecutor’s office operates. He also recognizes procedural opportunities that attorneys from outside the county routinely miss.

Hillsborough County Criminal Courts and Facilities

The Thirteenth Judicial Circuit Court system handles all Hillsborough County criminal cases. Moreover, the county operates multiple courthouse locations, each serving different functions:

George Edgecomb Courthouse (downtown Tampa) — The primary criminal courthouse in Hillsborough County. Notably, most serious criminal cases in Hillsborough County go through this courthouse. Judges here hear felony matters, bond hearings, and jury trials.

Hillsborough County Jail (Falkenburg Road) — First appearances and initial bond hearings take place here within 24 hours of arrest. Understanding Hillsborough County’s bond schedule and how specific judges approach pretrial detention is critical in the first hours after an arrest.

Plant City Courthouse and Similarly, Brandon Regional Courthouse — Misdemeanor cases, traffic offenses, and certain preliminary hearings may be scheduled at regional courthouses depending on where the arrest occurred.

Criminal Charges We Defend in Hillsborough County

The Brancato Law Firm, P.A. vigorously defends the full range of criminal charges in Hillsborough County, including:

Murder and Homicide — Rocky Brancato is death-qualified for capital cases, meaning he has the specialized training and experience required to defend clients facing the death penalty in Florida. His second-degree murder acquittal at trial demonstrates the level of advocacy he brings to the most serious charges.

Sex Crimes — Sexual battery, child pornography, sex offender designation, online solicitation stings, lewd and lascivious offenses, and human trafficking charges. The Brancato Law Firm has extensive experience defending sex crime allegations in Hillsborough County.

Drug Crimes — Possession, trafficking, manufacturing, conspiracy, and prescription drug offenses. In particular, Hillsborough County law enforcement agencies—including the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) and Tampa Police Department—use confidential informants, controlled buys, and surveillance operations that can be challenged.

DUI Defense — Driving under the influence charges in Hillsborough County often carry serious consequences. Specifically, penalties include license suspension, mandatory ignition interlock, and potential jail time. Rocky Brancato challenges breath test results, field sobriety tests, and the legality of traffic stops.

Violent Offenses, Weapons Charges, and More

Violent Crimes — Aggravated assault, aggravated battery, robbery, carjacking, and weapons offenses. Hillsborough County prosecutors pursue violent crime charges aggressively, and many carry mandatory minimum sentences under Florida law.

Domestic Violence — Battery, aggravated battery, stalking, and injunction violations. Importantly, domestic violence cases in Hillsborough County follow a no-drop prosecution policy, meaning the State Attorney’s Office will pursue charges even if the alleged victim recants or refuses to cooperate.

Gun Crimes — Possession of a firearm by a convicted person, carrying a concealed weapon, improper exhibition, and offenses under Florida’s 10-20-Life statute. Gun charges in Hillsborough County often carry mandatory prison sentences that judges cannot waive.

Child Abuse — Furthermore, allegations of child abuse and aggravated child abuse carry severe penalties in Florida and often involve complex medical evidence that forensic science experts must evaluate.

Additional practice areas include criminal traffic offenses, internet crimes, mental health defense, juvenile defense, probation violations, and white collar crime. Visit our full practice areas page for more information.

Hillsborough County Law Enforcement Agencies

An experienced Hillsborough County criminal defense attorney must understand the multiple agencies that conduct criminal investigations in this county, each following different protocols, evidence handling procedures, and investigative approaches. Understanding which agency investigated your case matters because it affects how officers gathered evidence and whether they respected your constitutional rights.

The primary agencies include the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO), which patrols unincorporated Hillsborough County and operates the county jail; the Tampa Police Department (TPD), which handles investigations within Tampa city limits; the Plant City Police Department and Temple Terrace Police Department for their respective jurisdictions; and various state and federal task forces that operate in the county.

Because Rocky Brancato taught criminal procedure at the police academy, he understands exactly how law enforcement officers are trained to conduct investigations, gather evidence, and testify in court. This background allows him to identify procedural errors, challenge officer testimony, and file effective motions to suppress evidence that was obtained in violation of your rights.

Hillsborough County Diversion and Alternative Sentencing Programs

A knowledgeable Hillsborough County criminal defense attorney knows that Hillsborough County offers several diversion and alternative sentencing programs that can lead to the State dropping or reducing charges. Moreover, knowing which programs exist, which judges support them, and how to position your case for acceptance gives defendants a critical advantage. As a result, The Brancato Law Firm, P.A. has guided hundreds of clients through these programs over 25 years of Hillsborough County practice.

Pretrial Intervention (PTI) allows first-time offenders charged with certain felonies to earn a full dismissal of their charges. Misdemeanor Diversion programs target first-time misdemeanor offenders and offer a similar path to dismissal. Drug Court provides an alternative to incarceration for defendants whose criminal behavior is driven by substance abuse, combining intensive supervision with treatment. Veterans Treatment Court serves veterans whose offenses connect to service-related issues such as PTSD or traumatic brain injury. Additionally, Mental Health Court offers treatment-based alternatives for defendants with documented mental health conditions.

Why Rocky Brancato for Hillsborough County Criminal Defense

No criminal defense attorney in the Tampa Bay area has deeper institutional knowledge of the Hillsborough County criminal justice system than Rocky Brancato. His career credentials speak directly to his ability to defend clients in Hillsborough County courts:

Credential	What It Means for Your Case
Former Chief Operations Officer, Hillsborough County Public Defender’s Office	Managed the daily operations of one of Florida’s largest public defender offices. Understands how Hillsborough County’s criminal courts function from the inside.
25+ Years in Hillsborough County Courts	Has appeared before every criminal division judge in the Thirteenth Judicial Circuit. Knows which arguments work and which approaches to avoid.
150+ Jury Trials	Proven trial attorney who takes cases to verdict when the State refuses to offer a fair resolution. Prosecutors know Rocky will go to trial.
AV Preeminent Rating (Martindale-Hubbell)	The highest possible rating for legal ability and professional ethics, based on peer review by other attorneys and judges.
Death-Qualified for Capital Cases	One of a limited number of Florida attorneys authorized to defend clients facing the death penalty. Demonstrates the highest level of criminal defense capability.
Police Academy Instructor	Taught criminal procedure and courtroom testimony to law enforcement officers. Knows how officers receive training and where that training falls short.

Areas Served in Hillsborough County

The Brancato Law Firm, P.A. represents clients facing criminal charges throughout Hillsborough County, including Tampa, Brandon, Riverview, Plant City, Temple Terrace, Carrollwood, Town ’N’ Country, Valrico, Lutz, Ruskin, Sun City Center, Apollo Beach, Gibsonton, Seffner, Thonotosassa, Dover, Lithia, Wimauma, and Balm. Whether your case originated from a HCSO traffic stop on the Selmon Expressway, a TPD investigation in Ybor City, or an arrest in unincorporated Hillsborough County, Rocky Brancato will fight for you.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hiring a Hillsborough County Criminal Defense Attorney

Arrest and Bond Questions

What happens after I am arrested in Hillsborough County?

After an arrest in Hillsborough County, you will be transported to the Orient Road Jail for booking and processing. Within 24 hours, you will appear before a judge for a first appearance hearing where bond will be set. The Brancato Law Firm can intervene at this stage to argue for a reasonable bond or release on your own recognizance. Contact us immediately at (813) 727-7159 so Rocky Brancato can begin working on your case before your first appearance.

How long can Hillsborough County hold me in jail before filing charges?

Under Florida law, the State Attorney has 21 days from the date of your arrest to file formal charges if you remain in custody (33 days for certain felonies). If prosecutors do not file charges within this window, you gain the right to an adversarial preliminary hearing. The Brancato Law Firm tracks these deadlines aggressively and will file the appropriate motions to secure your release if the State fails to meet them.

Choosing a Defense Attorney

Why should I hire a private attorney instead of a public defender in Hillsborough County?

The Hillsborough County Public Defender’s Office handles thousands of cases each year, and individual attorneys carry heavy caseloads. A private criminal defense attorney like Rocky Brancato can dedicate more time and resources to your case, conduct independent investigations, retain expert witnesses, and develop a defense strategy tailored specifically to your situation. Rocky’s experience as the former Chief Operations Officer of that same office means he understands both sides of the system.

What makes Rocky Brancato different from other Hillsborough County defense attorneys?

Rocky Brancato combines 25 years of Hillsborough County courtroom experience with credentials no other local defense attorney can match: former Chief Operations Officer of the Hillsborough County Public Defender’s Office, police academy instructor, AV Preeminent rating, Super Lawyers recognition, and death-qualified capital case authorization. He has tried over 150 jury trials and knows the Thirteenth Judicial Circuit from the inside. Call The Brancato Law Firm at (813) 727-7159 for a free consultation.

Case Process and Outcomes

Can my criminal charges be dropped in Hillsborough County?

Yes. Criminal charges in Hillsborough County can be dropped for several reasons, including insufficient evidence, constitutional violations such as illegal searches or coerced confessions, witness credibility issues, or successful completion of a diversion program. The Brancato Law Firm evaluates every angle of your case to identify the strongest path to dismissal or reduction. Call (813) 727-7159 to discuss your specific situation.

What is pretrial intervention in Hillsborough County and am I eligible?

Pretrial Intervention (PTI) is a diversion program offered by the Hillsborough County State Attorney’s Office for eligible first-time offenders. If you successfully complete the program requirements, the State dismisses your charges and you may become eligible to have your record sealed or expunged. Eligibility depends on the nature of the charge, your criminal history, and whether the victim consents. Rocky Brancato has guided hundreds of clients through the PTI process in Hillsborough County.

PROTECT YOUR FUTURE IN HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY

A criminal charge in Hillsborough County can follow you for the rest of your life. Whether you are facing a misdemeanor or a capital felony, Tampa Criminal Defense Attorney Rocky Brancato and The Brancato Law Firm, P.A. will fight to protect your rights, your freedom, and your future.

Rocky Brancato has spent nearly his entire career inside the Hillsborough County criminal justice system. He knows the prosecutors, he knows the judges, and he knows how to win. Your case receives senior-level attorney attention from the initial consultation through trial.

Call your Hillsborough County criminal defense attorney at (813) 727-7159 now for a free, confidential consultation. Available 24/7. Serving Hillsborough County, Pinellas County, and Pasco County.

The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every criminal case is unique, and past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Contact The Brancato Law Firm, P.A. to discuss the specific facts of your case.

The Brancato Law Firm, P.A. is a Tampa-based criminal defense practice. We are not affiliated with any other Brancato-named law firms.

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.