Practice Areas – The Brancato Law Firm, P.A.

The moment you’re arrested, the system starts working against you. Prosecutors prepare their case. Evidence gets catalogued. Witnesses are interviewed. Every hour that passes without experienced defense representation is an hour the State uses to build their case.

However, building the State’s case is only half the battle. In serious criminal matters, forensic evidence often determines the outcome. DNA, fingerprints, cell phone location data, toxicology reports, medical examinations—prosecutors present this evidence as if it proves guilt beyond doubt. But forensic evidence is not infallible, and challenging it requires an attorney who understands the science.

Tampa Attorney Rocky Brancato brings 25+ years of experience to your defense—including extensive knowledge of forensic science and a network of expert witnesses ready to challenge the State’s evidence. The Brancato Law Firm, P.A. practices in the following areas:

Specialty Practice Areas

Homicide Defense

I am death-qualified—certified to handle capital cases where the State seeks the death penalty. This credential reflects years of advanced training, experience in major crimes, and proven success under the highest stakes. Consequently, even when your case isn’t capital, your defense is built to the highest standard in Florida.

I defend clients charged with first-degree murder, second-degree murder, manslaughter, DUI manslaughter, vehicular homicide, and felony murder. Additionally, I proactively pursue Stand Your Ground immunity hearings for eligible cases.

Sex Crimes Defense

Sex crime allegations carry devastating, lifelong consequences—mandatory sex offender registration, prison time, and permanent damage to reputation. Therefore, I provide discreet yet aggressive defense for charges including sexual battery, lewd or lascivious conduct, internet solicitation, possession of child pornography, and traveling to meet a minor.

I meticulously review digital evidence, challenge forensic collection methods, and investigate potential motives for false accusations. Moreover, I work with forensic pathologists to challenge medical evidence and SANE nurse conclusions when the science doesn’t support the allegations.

Forensic Science Defense

This is what sets my practice apart. In serious criminal cases, forensic evidence often determines the outcome. Prosecutors present DNA, fingerprints, cell phone location data, toxicology reports, and medical examinations as if they prove guilt beyond doubt.

However, forensic evidence is not infallible. Laboratory errors occur. Analysts misinterpret data. Experts reach conclusions that the science does not support. As a result, I have developed extensive knowledge of forensic science and how to challenge it effectively—and I work with expert witnesses across every discipline.

DUI Defense

A DUI arrest triggers immediate consequences: license suspension within 10 days unless you request a formal review hearing. As a member of the National College for DUI Defense, I vigorously challenge the legality of traffic stops, the accuracy of Intoxilyzer 8000 breath tests, and the validity of field sobriety exercises.

I represent clients facing first-time DUI, felony DUI, DUI with injury, breath test refusal, and CDL violations. In DUI manslaughter cases, I use forensic toxicologists to challenge retrograde extrapolation calculations—the State’s method of estimating your BAC at the time of driving.

Other Practice Areas

Drug Crimes Defense

Florida’s drug trafficking laws impose severe mandatory minimum sentences. For instance, four grams of fentanyl triggers a mandatory three-year minimum; 28 grams of cocaine means mandatory three years. I defend clients charged with trafficking, possession, sale, prescription fraud, and DUID. Specifically, I challenge search legality, field test reliability, lab accuracy, and weight calculations. When addiction underlies the charges, I help connect clients with treatment resources and diversion programs.

Domestic Violence Defense

Domestic violence accusations often result in immediate arrest and no-contact orders. Additionally, convictions carry firearm prohibitions and appear on background checks indefinitely. I defend clients accused of domestic battery, aggravated domestic battery, stalking, and injunction violations. I investigate ulterior motives—custody disputes, divorce leverage, relationship conflicts—and challenge the State’s narrative when emotions run high.

Gun & Weapons Crimes

Florida’s 10-20-Life law imposes mandatory minimum sentences when firearms are used during felonies: 10 years for possession, 20 years for discharge, 25-to-life for causing injury. I defend clients charged with felon in possession, unlawful concealed carry, improper exhibition, and firearm-enhanced felonies. Furthermore, I pursue Stand Your Ground immunity for eligible cases involving lawful self-defense.

Violent Crimes Defense

Charges such as aggravated battery, robbery, and carjacking carry life-altering penalties. I approach these cases with trial-tested strategy, detailed forensic review, and effective cross-examination. Self-defense, misidentification, and lack of intent are common defenses I develop. Every violent crime case is prepared as if it’s going to trial.

More Practice Areas

Child Abuse & Neglect Defense

Child abuse accusations often stem from misunderstandings, medical misdiagnosis, or contentious custody disputes. I work with forensic pathologists and medical experts to identify conditions that mimic abuse—osteogenesis imperfecta, choledochal cysts, bleeding disorders. I challenge Child Protection Team conclusions for confirmation bias and lack of scientific methodology. Multiple clients have had charges dismissed after independent medical review revealed non-abuse explanations for injuries.

Criminal Mental Health Defense

When mental illness or cognitive disability is a factor in your case, I explore all avenues for treatment-based resolutions. I have significant experience navigating Mental Health Court, Veterans Court, and diversion programs in Hillsborough County. Moreover, I work closely with forensic psychiatrists and mental health professionals to develop mitigation strategies and seek alternatives to incarceration when appropriate.

Internet & Cyber Crimes Defense

Internet crime cases involve complex digital evidence, forensic analysis, and constitutional search issues. I handle online solicitation, computer crimes, identity theft, and cases arising from undercover sting operations. My experience in high-volume internet sex crime cases means I know how to challenge digital forensic evidence, search warrant validity, and entrapment defenses.

Criminal Traffic Offenses

Criminal traffic charges carry severe penalties beyond typical traffic tickets. I handle reckless driving, fleeing to elude, driving with a suspended license (DWLS), and leaving the scene of an accident. My goal is to minimize long-term impact on your driving privileges, insurance rates, and criminal record.

Consulting

Trial Strategy and Co-Counsel Services

I offer strategic support and co-counsel services to criminal defense attorneys handling complex cases throughout Florida. With over 25 years of major crimes experience, I assist with expert witness development, forensic evidence challenges, Daubert motions, and courtroom strategy. Whether behind the scenes or at counsel table, I help attorneys strengthen their defense presentation.

Courts We Serve Throughout Tampa Bay

My office sits two blocks from the Hillsborough County Courthouse at 620 E. Twiggs Street in downtown Tampa. I handle cases in circuit courts, county courts, and specialized divisions throughout the region:

• Hillsborough County: Tampa, Brandon, Plant City, Riverview
• Pinellas County: St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Largo
• Pasco County: New Port Richey, Dade City, Wesley Chapel
• Specialized Courts: Veterans Court, Mental Health Court, Drug Court

Facing Criminal Charges in Tampa Bay?

If you’ve been arrested or are under investigation for a crime in Tampa, Hillsborough, Pinellas, or Pasco County, the decisions you make now will determine your future. I personally oversee every major crimes case—ensuring experienced, strategic representation at every stage.

Contact our firm today for a confidential consultation. I’ll evaluate your case, explain your options, and outline a strategy for protecting your freedom.

Call (813) 727-7159 for Immediate Consultation

The Brancato Law Firm, P.A.

620 E. Twiggs Street, Suite 205, Tampa, FL 33602

Two Blocks from the Hillsborough County Courthouse