Look for someone with experience who understands how the local court system works. A good lawyer should communicate clearly, take time to listen, and know how to build a strong defense based on the details of your case.

While Kevin handles the legal strategy, court appearances, and paperwork, you’ll stay involved by sharing information and making key decisions when needed. The goal is to keep you informed without overwhelming you.

Kevin’s dedication to protecting the rights of his clients is backed by his experience both inside and outside the courtroom. His reputation for sharp, aggressive defense and his strong relationships within Florida’s legal community give him a distinct advantage.

A quick look at Kevin’s average review rating of 5 stars and client success stories will tell you all you need to know about his ability as a lawyer. From the words of a previous client, Kevin is “very professional and competent in his work.”

Kevin understands how DUI cases are handled by law enforcement and the courts, which helps him focus on the details that matter most. From challenging traffic stops to questioning the reliability of test results, his approach is shaped by years of working with DUI cases across the state.

While no outcome can ever be guaranteed, Kevin approaches each case with careful preparation and a strategy built around facts. His goal is to pursue the strongest possible result for every client he represents.

Choose someone who focuses on criminal defense, understands the local court system, and takes the time to listen to your concerns. A lawyer with courtroom experience and strong relationships with local judges and prosecutors may offer a big advantage.

Kevin’s time as a prosecutor gave him firsthand insight into how criminal cases are built and pursued. He knows how the state approaches charging decisions, evidence, and plea offers. This perspective helps him identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s arguments and build a defense that addresses every stage of the legal process.

An officer’s report is just one piece of evidence. It can be challenged based on how the stop was conducted, how tests were given, or whether proper procedures were followed. A skilled DUI lawyer can review the facts and look for weaknesses in the case.

Speak to a DUI defense lawyer as soon as possible. An experienced attorney such as Kevin Peterford can review your case, help you understand your options, and take quick action to protect your license and build your defense.

In some cases, attending AA or NA meetings before trial can help show the court that you’re taking the charge seriously and making positive changes. It may be useful during negotiations or sentencing, especially if alcohol abuse is a concern. However, it’s not necessary or helpful in every case. A DUI lawyer can advise you on whether attending meetings would benefit your specific situation.

No, Florida law does not give you the right to speak with a lawyer before deciding whether to take a breath, blood, or urine test. This also falls under the state’s implied consent law.

Field sobriety tests are only one part of a DUI investigation. Even if you perform well, an officer can still arrest you based on other signs of impairment, like the smell of alcohol, slurred speech, bloodshot eyes, or poor driving.

A DUI charge doesn’t rely solely on a test result. Even if you didn’t provide a sample, the case may still proceed based on other factors from the stop or arrest.

A domestic violence charge may affect your job, housing, ability to carry a firearm, and even custody rights. A domestic battery charge conviction or conviction withheld, cannot be sealed or expunged in Florida. It’s important to speak with a lawyer early to protect your rights and understand your options.

If you're barred from returning home due to a no-contact or protective order, the court may allow a one-time visit to collect essential belongings. This usually has to be arranged in advance, with court approval and a law enforcement escort.

No-contact orders are usually issued right after an arrest and can stay in place throughout the case. In some situations, they may continue even after the case ends. These orders are separate from restraining orders, which involve a formal hearing and tend to last longer. Only the court can change or remove a no-contact order — contact is not allowed until that happens.

If the court issues a no-contact or protective order, you are not allowed to return home or have any contact with the other person involved. This applies even if you legally live there. Violating the order can lead to another arrest.

A lawyer can help you request a change to the order, but until that happens, the restriction stays in place.

After an arrest, a judge will review your case and decide if bail is appropriate. Bail is a set amount of money that allows you to be released while your case is pending. If you qualify, you may also be released without posting bail.

Probation is a type of supervision that allows someone to avoid jail or prison, usually under specific conditions set by the court. Parole is supervised release after serving time in prison, often granted for good behavior. Both require regular check-ins and adherence to certain rules to stay in compliance.

If you're arrested, stay calm and don’t answer any questions. Ask for a lawyer right away and wait until you’ve spoken to one before saying anything else.

Booking is the process after an arrest where your personal information, fingerprints, and photo are taken. Your belongings are collected, and your alleged offense is documented. After booking, most people remain in custody until their first court appearance, which must happen within the first 24 hours after arrest.

After booking, most people are allowed to make a phone call. You can use that time to contact a family member or someone who can help connect you with a lawyer.

It could. These recordings often show what really happened during a stop or arrest. If the footage reveals errors, excessive force, or anything that contradicts the report, it may support your defense.

If the police didn’t follow proper procedures or violated your rights, certain evidence might not be allowed in court. This could create opportunities to challenge parts of the case, depending on the situation.

It depends on the facts of the case, the type of charge, and the legal strategy. A jury trial involves members of the community deciding the outcome, while a bench trial is decided by a judge. Kevin reviews all factors carefully to help decide what’s in your best interest.

A preliminary hearing is a court proceeding used to determine whether there is enough evidence, or probable cause, to proceed with criminal charges. Florida uses two types of probable cause hearings.

The first is a nonadversarial hearing, usually held within 48 hours of arrest, where a judge reviews the case. The second is an adversarial preliminary hearing, which may be held if the defendant remains in jail and formal charges haven’t been filed within 21 days. This hearing allows both sides to present evidence and question witnesses in court.

Dressing neatly shows respect for the court and can make a good impression. You don’t need to wear a suit, but clean, conservative clothing is recommended. Avoid hats, flip-flops, or anything too casual.

A “not guilty” plea does not mean you’re denying what happened. This plea starts the legal process and gives your lawyer time to review the evidence, protect your rights, and explore all your options. You can always change your plea later if needed.

The best way to protect your future is by working with a skilled criminal defense lawyer from the start. An attorney like Kevin Peterford can look for ways to reduce or dismiss charges, keep damaging information off your record, and fight for the best possible outcome.

If you believe something went wrong in your case, you may be able to file an appeal or explore other post-conviction options. There are strict deadlines and requirements, though, so it's important to speak with a lawyer right away to review your options.