Tampa Pre-File Investigations

I WORK HARD TO PROTECT YOUR RIGHTS.

Effective Defense from an AV Preeminent* Rated Former Prosecutor with more than 25 Years of Experience

Tampa Pre-File Investigations

I WORK HARD TO PROTECT YOUR RIGHTS.

Effective Defense from an AV Preeminent* Rated Former Prosecutor with more than 25 Years of Experience

Mike G Law Tampa Lawyer

Why You Should Hire Mike G Law as Your Criminal Defense Attorney for Your Pre-File Investigation in Tampa 

Charges have yet to be filed, but police officers want to speak to you. Should you go in and talk to them or seek legal advice? 

A police investigation in Tampa is stressful for all those involved. Not knowing if law enforcement officers are investigating you, what evidence they have against you, or who might be working for law enforcement can take its toll on anyone. 

However, if a police officer contacts you or expresses interest in searching your property, there’s a high likelihood they are investigating you for a crime. 

Never speak to law enforcement officers without a lawyer present or allow them to search any of your property without a warrant. This includes looking through your phone or computer. Often, police officers will act like your buddy and then turn around and use what you say against you, so invoke your Fifth Amendment rights and your right to remain silent. Always hire an experienced criminal defense attorney to assist you in dealing with the police.  

Mike G has experience with handling all types of pre-file investigations related to criminal offenses, such as: 

  • Aggravated assault and battery 
  • Arson crimes 
  • Cyber crimes 
  • Domestic violence 
  • Drug crimes 
  • Drug trafficking 
  • DUIs 
  • Federal crimes 
  • Firearms charges 
  • Sex crimes 
  • Violent crimes 
  • White collar crimes 

His deep understanding of criminal law in Tampa, FL, and his relationship with local law enforcement, judges, and prosecutors make him one of the most experienced criminal defense attorneys in the State of Florida. 

No matter where you live in the Clearwater-St. Petersburg-Tampa Bay area, our criminal defense law firm can help you with a pre-file investigation. We serve clients in the following areas: 

What are Tampa Pre-File Investigations? 

The pre-file investigation process is when law enforcement investigates someone for possibly committing a crime. Often, police need probable cause before they can legally search or arrest you for a crime. Hence, the pre-file investigation is when police actively investigate a crime to gather evidence but have not yet filed formal charges. 

But how do you know the police are investigating you if they don’t have to make you aware you’re the subject of an investigation? Some signs you may be under investigation for a crime are: 

  • The police visit or contact you, your family, and/or your friends to ask questions or request to search personal property 
  • You receive strange social media requests or suspicious contact requests 
  • You see the police lurking around your home or workplace 

Why Should You Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney During a Pre-File Investigation? 

The fact is, police don’t have a legal obligation to make it clear you’re the subject of an investigation. Especially in cases where you could influence others potentially connected to the crime or coerce witnesses into not speaking, the police have no incentive to inform you they are investigating you. They certainly don’t want you or your lawyer interfering with their investigation. 

On the other hand, if you’re the suspect of a white-collar crime, the police will likely inform you that they are investigating you as a scare tactic. 

Hiring an attorney during the pre-file investigation is beneficial for many other reasons, such as the following: 

Prepare Potential Defenses 

Even if you are under investigation but not charged, your lawyer can still begin to prepare possible defenses should the state file formal charges. 

If it becomes clear that formal charges are inevitable, the more time your attorney has to prepare for your case, the better the outcome will be for you. Collecting evidence at the beginning of an investigation is easier than long after the alleged crime. 

Avoid a Trial or Jail 

If your lawyer prepares a solid defense strategy during the pre-file investigation and police have enough evidence to charge you with a crime, it’s easier to negotiate with prosecutors about the penalty.  

When your attorney has all the evidence at their disposal, they can speak with prosecutors about realistic penalties for the crime and make a deal. Entering a plea deal can help you avoid a trial and possibly jail time, depending on the offense. 

Avoid a Criminal Charge  

There are many reasons why prosecutors may never file charges against you. Some include: 

  • Law enforcement never interviewed a potential witness or witnesses 
  • Law enforcement violated your civil rights 
  • The crime scene investigators didn’t recover any physical evidence relevant to the case 
  • The police report is incomplete 
  • There’s not enough evidence to convict you at trial beyond a reasonable doubt 

A criminal defense lawyer can thoroughly examine the case evidence and compile a mitigation package to send to prosecutors stating why they shouldn’t file the charges against you. This is especially useful in borderline situations. 

Smooth Out the Bail Process 

If your arrest is imminent, you may be wondering – do I still need a lawyer? The answer is absolutely. 

Your lawyer can help accelerate your release from jail by starting the process as quickly as possible. The sooner you get out of jail, the quicker you can return to work and your loved ones. 

Protect Your Rights Against Search Warrants  

During a pre-file investigation, law enforcement may knowingly or unknowingly violate your civil rights. Whether they fail to read your Miranda Rights or search your property without a warrant, it’s illegal for them to violate your Constitutional rights. A criminal defense lawyer will guarantee you legal representation to protect your rights during the entire pre-file investigation process. 

Far too often, juries convict innocent people. If a jury falsely convicts you of a crime, you absolutely need a lawyer to help you with the appeal. 

Are You the Subject of a Pre-file Investigation? 

Get an experienced criminal defense lawyer! Mike G speaks to people all the time whose lawyers have told them to wait until they have been arrested before calling them. 

That’s just bad advice from a lazy defense attorney. Something can always be done to improve a client’s standing with law enforcement, and it is your criminal defense attorney’s job to do everything they can. 

If you believe you are being investigated or have been asked to speak to law enforcement, a qualified defense attorney can help ensure your rights are protected and challenge the information gathering so it proceeds by the book. Often, just asking the district attorney for time to look into a few matters will keep law enforcement at bay. 

Did You Know That Law Enforcement Officers Are Allowed to Lie to You? 

A police officer can contact you, meet with you, and swear that they will not arrest you if you just tell them your side of the story while they have every intention of handcuffing you and sending you to jail. It’s practically in their job description for “investigative techniques.” They know they have leverage against you, plus the institutional power to play games with you to get you to admit certain facts. And even if you do not admit to committing a crime, you may inadvertently admit to points that make it easier for the government to prosecute you for a crime later on. 

Ultimately, you should distrust everything a police officer tells you. The technical elements of a crime are not always clear. Don’t admit to critical elements and make it easy for authorities to prosecute you and send you to jail. 

DIY Defense Is Never Good Legal Representation 

If a police officer contacts you, call a lawyer. Only a lawyer can speak for you, and only a lawyer will know how to poke holes into the pre-file investigation. A skilled defense lawyer has gained insight into the inner workings of the justice system, and a qualified defense attorney immediately knows where to look for errors, processing problems, and more. 

On countless occasions, Mike G has helped clients being investigated for serious crimes have all the charges against them dropped. Too often, police reports are incomplete; they’re missing essential details while simultaneously being used to justify an arresting officer’s decision to take someone to jail. 

This is completely unacceptable. After conducting our own investigations, demonstrating the lack of credible evidence, interviewing witnesses, and sharing that information with the prosecuting authorities, Mike G has helped my clients avoid being railroaded by the authorities. 

Law enforcement officers are human beings who are called upon to handle stressful situations. They make mistakes and cut corners, just like everyone else. However, police misconduct or laziness can have lifelong consequences for the individuals they go after. Mike G has handled first-degree felony cases where arrests were made, and the State was seeking decades in prison – but neither the police nor the State Attorney’s Office had interviewed witnesses at the scene of the alleged crime. 

You cannot underestimate the institutional incompetence of the criminal justice and legal system. 

Protect Your Rights From the Start With Mike G Law 

The most crucial time to contact a lawyer is right after you hear that the police want to speak to you. You need a strategy for a pre-file investigation that only an experienced criminal defense lawyer can provide. 

At Mike G Law, one of our specialties is representing people under pre-file investigation by law enforcement, including the Office of the State Attorney. If a cop gets a call from Mike G Law, they know they will be expected to conduct a serious criminal investigation. Mike G will ensure the police officer’s report is supplemented with facts we have uncovered that they may not have. This has undoubtedly led law enforcement to abandon criminal cases because they understand that nothing less than a complete, thorough investigation is required if they are facing Mike G Law. 

Because Mike G invests in his own investigations and speaks to everyone involved in the matter, authorities in Hillsborough County know that he offers his clients a comprehensive defense right from the beginning of a pre-file investigation. There is no waiting until charges are filed. To ensure the investigative process is fair and complete, Mike G starts defending his clients the moment they hire him. 

Work With Criminal Defense Lawyer Mike G Law 

When you hire Mike G Law, his team immediately swings into action. He will ask you to go home and prepare your own detailed report of everything relevant that has occurred. He also tells clients he wants them to convey every detail they can think of, from their brains to his. 

This information allows Mike G to provide his clients with the best possible defense. He suggests they keep and update an electronic journal as they recall additional facts. Mike G wants text messages, videos, pictures, and the names and contact information of everyone with relevant information. 

Mike G also has witnesses come in on a weekly basis to sign affidavits he’s prepared, committing them to a specific set of facts before the police or the government has had an opportunity to intimidate them into a favorable spin of reality meant to aid in prosecution. 

In other words, Mike G Law conducts a competent, thorough, and exhaustive investigation of their own. At Mike G Law, we pride ourselves on dealing with cases before they even get to court. 

Criminal defense is war — and a person’s dignity and freedom are at stake. Before the government tries to take those away, they had better have hard, credible evidence. Mike G will ensure they do before they even consider charging his clients.  

Mike G Law can help you or your loved one rebuild their lives and avoid incarceration. Call the office at 813-221-4303, or contact us online for a free consultation. Se habla Español. 

FAQs About Tampa Pre-File Investigations 

Undergoing a pre-file investigation can be confusing, especially when you don’t know the evidence law enforcement has against you or how long the investigation will last. 

How long can you be under pre-file investigation? 

Unfortunately, investigations have no maximum time limit. For some crimes, you may only be under investigation for a few weeks or months. For more complex crimes, it can be years. 

However, if the police don’t gather enough evidence in the case, eventually, they lose the incentive to keep looking. But you don’t want to wait that long. When you hire Mike G, he can conduct his own investigation and avoid the drawn-out game the police play with people’s lives.  

What are the signs you’re under pre-file investigation? How do you know if the police are investigating you for drugs or something else? 

It can be challenging to know, as law enforcement agencies often keep their investigations confidential. However, there may be some signs that can indicate that you are the subject of an investigation: 

  • Increased police presence: If you notice an increase in law enforcement in your neighborhood or around your workplace, it could be a sign that they’re investigating criminal activity in the area, including drug-related crimes. 
  • Surveillance: If you notice suspicious unmarked cars or individuals parked outside your home or following you, it could be a sign that you are under surveillance. 
  • Informants: If you are associated with people involved in criminal activity, they may provide information to law enforcement in exchange for leniency or other benefits. In some cases, informants may even be undercover officers. 
  • Search warrants: If law enforcement obtains a search warrant for your home or property, it strongly indicates that they suspect you of criminal activity, including drug-related crimes. 
  • Questioning: If law enforcement officers approach you and begin questioning you about your activities or associates, it could be a sign that you are a suspect in a criminal investigation. 

If you suspect you are under a pre-file investigation, it is critical to consult with an experienced attorney, such as Mike G Law, as soon as possible to protect your rights and help you understand your legal options. 

Can you be under pre-file investigation but not charged? 

Yes, it is possible to be under investigation by law enforcement without being charged with a crime. A pre-file investigation, which takes place before charges are filed, is one example of a situation where someone may be under investigation but not yet charged. 

In some cases, law enforcement may conduct a pre-file investigation and determine that there isn’t sufficient evidence to support criminal charges. In other cases, the investigation may be ongoing, and charges may be filed later if additional evidence is discovered. 

It is crucial to keep in mind that being under investigation can have profound implications, even if charges are never filed. An investigation can impact your reputation, employment, and other aspects of your life. 

When do police stop investigating a case? 

The investigation of a case can stop at different stages depending on the circumstances of the case. Here are some reasons why an investigation may stop: 

  • Lack of evidence 
  • Arrest and charges against a suspect 
  • Lack of resources to pursue the investigation 
  • If a case is deemed “unsolvable” due to a lack of leads or other factors 
  • The statute of limitations expires 

It is important to note that even if the police close an investigation, the case may still be reopened if new evidence is discovered or if circumstances change. Additionally, it’s possible that the police may continue to investigate a case even after charges have been filed and an arrest has been made to gather additional evidence or build a stronger case. 

How long do the police have to charge you with a crime? 

The amount of time that the police have enough evidence to charge you with a crime in Florida depends on the specific crime you are accused of committing. Here are the statutes of limitations for some common criminal offenses in Florida: 

  • First-degree murder: No statute of limitations 
  • Capital sexual battery, lewd or lascivious offenses on a victim under 16 years old, or sexual performance by a child: No statute of limitations 
  • Felony that results in death: Four years 
  • Felony: Three years 
  • Misdemeanor: Two years 

There are exceptions to these statutes of limitations. For example, if the accused leaves the State, the statute of limitations may be “tolled,” or paused, until they return. Additionally, if DNA evidence is involved, the statute of limitations may be extended. 

Do you have the right to know if you are the subject of a pre-file investigation? 

In the State of Florida, no law requires law enforcement to inform you if you are the subject of a search warrant or an investigation. However, if law enforcement wants to question you or conduct a search of your property, they are generally required to inform you of your rights, including your right to remain silent and your right to an attorney. Additionally, if you are arrested or charged with a crime, you have the right to know the charges against you. 

If you suspect you are being investigated by state or federal law enforcement, consulting a criminal defense attorney is always a good idea. Mike G Law can help you understand your legal rights and work to protect your best interests throughout the investigation and any subsequent legal proceedings. 

Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney Mike G Law Has Your Best Interests at Heart 

As soon as you find out you’re the subject of an investigation or police request to speak with you, schedule a free consultation with Mike G. He will evaluate the possible charges against you and devise a strategy. Call Mike G Law today to get the best legal representation in Tampa if you are the potential subject of a pre-file investigation. 

Let Mike G Help Protect Your Rights

The decisions you make after you have been arrested can determine the outcome of your case — and possibly your life. Call Mike G Law at 813-221-4303, or contact me online.

Contact Mike G Now

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I would do more than 5 stars if it was available. Mr. Gonzalez was outstanding. Told everything how it was, very responsive to call and email. Fought very hard to get my husband the outcome he received. If We were to ever need a attorney in Florida again, We would use him as many times as We needed. We highly recommend to anyone looking for an awesome attorney to go with Mike G Law!!! He gets to the point!!!

Ashley F.

I cannot recommend Mr Gonzalez enough. He is extremely professional as is his entire firm. Mr Gonzalez has been very knowledgeable and forthcoming throughout the entire legal process. I highly recommend him and a definite five star!

Bonnie B.

Mike G. is a great attorney. Very professional, very punctual, easy to talk to. Thanks to him my case was dismissed charges dropped.

Eric G.

I was able to text or call Mike anytime I needed to. He worked with me, on a real level and communicated realistic expectations for my situation. Thanks again guys.

Nicole S.

I wish I could give Mr. González 10 stars out of 5. He is a stellar and highly competent criminal justice attorney. Mr. González has effectively given me a second chance at life thanks to his deep and professional knowledge of criminal law. I was facing a very serious crime that carried a considerable period of imprisonment. But thanks to his incredible talent, sheer strength of intelligence, and a strong heart to fight for an individual’s values, I can now rest easy knowing that I will not have to suffer through the penal system. If you ever have a problem with the criminal justice system, I highly recommend that you hire this remarkable gentleman to fight for you in your case. I owe you a tremendous debt for your services. He gave me back my life and I will always be grateful. Thank you Mr. Gonzalez!

Shaler B.

Mike took care of my legal and civil case and was very helpful and Professional. He was responsive to all my questions and gave me updates as I asked for them. He helped get me in a position to see my son again which I am extremely grateful for. Thank you and God bless!

William W.