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Winner of the IACC 2024 Male Entrepreneur
of the Year Award
Over 20 Years Experience Handling State & Federal

Criminal Defense Cases.

Highly-Skilled & Decorated Trial Law Firm

Our goal is to protect and defend your constitutional rights.

Defending You Is Our Priority

We aggressively defend clients, regardless of the situation.

Schedule A Free Consultation Call Today!

You need someone on your side who will represent your best interests.

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Founding partner Rajan Joshi discusses your rights if stopped for DUI
Awards & Recognition
The Florida Bar
AILA
Orange County Bar Association
10 Best 2016
Avvo Rating 10.0 Superb Top Attorney Criminal Defense
Avvo Clients' Choice Award 2020
Whos' Who Certified
Top Rated Lawyer 2022
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Areas of Practice

Although the terms assault and battery are oftentimes used interchangeably, it’s important to establish that both are independent and distinct crimes. While a battery requires an intentional touching or contact with the victim’s body—or something closely related to the victim’s body—contrarily, an assault does not require any contact whatsoever. If the perpetrator intentionally threatens violence towards the victim, and ... read more

Simple battery, also known as misdemeanor battery, is a highly defendable crime. That’s why it’s imperative you hire a skillful law firm that will aggressively fight for you and your rights to avoid the damaging ramifications of a conviction. Simple battery is considered a first degree misdemeanor and carries penalties of up to one year in jail, 12 months supervised probation, and a $1,000 fine, among other sanctions. Under Florida ... read more

Burglary is a serious felony offense in the state of Florida, carrying severe penalties if an individual is ultimately convicted. Due to the complexity of burglary cases and the potential consequences of a conviction, the skills of an experienced law firm is highly recommended and even encouraged. Burglary is governed by Florida Statute 810.02. Under said statute, burglary can be a first degree felony (punishable by life in prison ... read more

Getting arrested for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) can bring on difficult times, but with an experienced legal team on your side it can help mitigate some of your anxieties and fears. Our Orlando-based criminal defense firm has represented numerous DUI clients with the odds seemingly stacked against them and have received incredible results. We’re able to do this because we attack the case from all angles, poking holes in what seems ... read more

One of the most serious offenses a person can be accused of in their lifetime is the heinous crime of murder. Under Florida Statute 782.04, murder is defined as the unlawful killing of a human being. There are various degrees of murder in Florida—three to be specific—with first degree murder being the most serious. The different degrees of murder are distinguished by the underlying circumstances surrounding the killing of the victim ... read more

Central Florida is recognized by many as the cornerstone shopping and attraction destination, providing an unparalleled vacation experience to locals and out-of-state visitors. With an array of stores, eateries, boutiques, and other service providers, Orlando attracts millions of visitors to its city each year. With that level of voluminous visitation, along with the thousands of locals that live in the region, it’s not uncommon for ... read more

The state of Florida is the mecca of international drug trafficking and money laundering, due to its prime location and seemly easy drug access point. Among the various drugs that are illegally transported into the state, cocaine and heroin are the primary drug threats, with chronic use and addiction creating not only personal and financial instability, but ultimately severe issues with the law. Without delving into the statistics, drug crimes ... read more

Similar to other violent felony offenses, accusations of robbery should be taken seriously, as this crime is aggressively prosecuted in the state of Florida. Under Florida law, robbery is generally considered a second-degree felony, punishable by up to 15 years in prison, 15 years of probation, and a $10,000 fine—among other harsh sanctions the Court may impose. It’s noteworthy to point out that robbery may be enhanced to a first-degree felony ... read more

Sex crimes are very serious in the state of Florida, and therefore, carry significant consequences that are oftentimes long lasting if a person is ultimately convicted. Not to mention the other ramifications associated with being charged with a sex crime, including potentially losing your job, negative press, and tarnishing your reputation in the community. If convicted of a sex offense, not only will the Defendant lose many years of their life ... read more

Orlando Criminal Defense Lawyers

Joshi Law Firm, PA is a highly skilled and decorated criminal law firm, serving our community with the highest integrity and honor! We pride ourselves on hard-hitting, passionate representation, fighting for our clients to preserve their rights, their families, and their freedom. With decades of combined experience, our zealous Florida criminal law team has a proven record of success and hundreds of satisfied clients. If you’ve been charged with a federal or state crime in Florida, you’ll find the legal advocacy you need from the stellar Orlando criminal defense lawyers at the Joshi Law Firm, PA.

Celebrated Criminal Lawyers With Decades of Experience

Criminal defense attorney Rajan Josh is a high profile attorney who has been featured on CNN, Dr. Phil, Fox, The Today Show, Headline News and countless national and local news stations for cases he has handled. He is a reoccurring guest on Behind the Law to discuss criminal law issues and cases. He has successfully represented politicians, CEO’s, numerous doctors, lawyers and some very prominent individuals.

Joshi Law Firm, PA founding partner Rajan Joshi started his career as an Assistant State Attorney in Jacksonville, Florida where he developed his trial abilities during his four years there. Mr. Joshi was recognized for his performance by receiving the Jury Trial Award in 2003 for trying the most jury trials in the office. After his tenure at the State Attorney’s office, Mr. Joshi worked for an AV Rated (top ranking) law firm in Jacksonville for two years and then moved back to Orlando and was soon hired at the prestigious Nejame Law firm. His legal talents were quickly recognized, and within his first year, he became a Partner with the firm. While at the firm for over eight years, Rajan Joshi handled many high-profile cases which received local and national media attention. In 2014, the National Trial Lawyers Association recognized Mr. Joshi as one of the Top 100 Trial Lawyers. Mr. Joshi has an Avvo rating of 10 and is ranked as a Superb Lawyer (Highest Rating). Based on the extremely positive testimonials from multiple clients, Mr. Joshi was awarded the Avvo Client’s Choice Award in 2015.

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Highly-Skilled & Decorated Trial Law Firm, serving our community with the highest integrity and honor.

Mr. Joshi strongly believes that anyone charged by the State or the Federal Government needs an aggressive defense. He believes in the rights of criminal defendants and does everything he can to ensure his clients get the best defense possible, including by hiring the strongest staff and working with only the most qualified co-counsel. Joshi Law Firm, PA is truly HERE TO PROTECT YOU.

A Team of Passionate Orlando Criminal Defense Advocates

At Joshi Law Firm, PA we hold ourselves to the highest standard because we believe in the rights and freedoms of our clients. We have years of experience fighting cases all the way to trial, prevailing in a number of high-profile cases. We treat each case with the respect and dedication that our clients deserve. Our Orlando criminal defense attorneys have a proven track record of success because we truly care about each and every one of our clients.

Dedicated Service Defending Floridians Against All Types of Criminal Charges

Assault. Violent criminal charges such as assault can carry severe penalties. It’s important that you get a seasoned legal advocate in your corner as soon as possible.

Battery. Assault and battery can be charged separately or against the same defendant. If you are facing battery charges, you need an experienced legal defense team on your side.

DUI and Driving Charges. Getting arrested for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs can lead to difficult criminal and administrative troubles, but with an experienced legal team on your side, you can get your life back on track.

Drug Offenses. The service of a highly knowledgeable and aggressive law firm can help avoid the worst consequences of drug offense charges.

Domestic Violence. The State of Florida takes domestic violence charges very seriously. Whether you are accused of stalking, harassment, battery, child abuse, or any other form of domestic violence, the right legal defense can mean the difference between keeping or losing your freedom and your family.

Weapons Charges. Whether you are charged with unlawful possession of a firearm or carrying the wrong kind of weapon, weapons charges can lead to significant consequences without the help of a seasoned weapons crime defense lawyer.

Theft Crimes. Our law firm has successfully helped many clients who have unfortunately found themselves facing legal trouble, particularly with theft. We represent clients charged with burglary, robbery, trespass, grand theft, and all manner of theft crimes.

Sex Offenses. Sex offenses are among the most serious charges you can face in a Florida criminal court. If you are accused of any sex offense, we strongly advise you to seek the services of a qualified attorney immediately.

White-Collar Crimes. White-collar crimes are complex and require experienced, knowledgeable legal representation. Make sure you have a qualified legal team on your side that knows how to properly investigate, gather evidence, and defend against white-collar criminal charges.

Federal Crimes. Defending against federal charges requires understanding and experience in federal law. A seasoned federal criminal defense attorney can protect your rights and ensure that you do not fall through the cracks of the harsh federal criminal justice system.

Juvenile Crimes. A teenager’s mistake should not ruin their entire life. A compassionate juvenile crime defense attorney can help protect you or your child from the lifelong consequences of a serious criminal record.

Common Crimes in Orlando

Orlando sees a variety of criminal cases, many of which are common throughout Florida. Some of the most frequently charged crimes in Orlando include:

  • DUI (Driving Under the Influence): Orlando has strict DUI laws, and a conviction can result in license suspension, fines, and even jail time.
  • Drug Offenses: Possession, distribution, and trafficking of illegal substances are serious crimes with harsh penalties.
  • Theft and Burglary: These include crimes like shoplifting, grand theft, and breaking and entering.
  • Assault and Battery: Both misdemeanors and felonies, depending on the circumstances and severity of the offense.
  • Domestic Violence: This includes physical violence or threats against a spouse, family member, or intimate partner.
  • White Collar Crimes: Fraud, embezzlement, and identity theft are common non-violent but severe offenses.
  • Sex Crimes: These include charges such as sexual assault and possession of child pornography, carrying severe legal and social consequences.
  • Homicide: Murder and manslaughter cases are among the most serious, with life-altering consequences.

The Criminal Process in Florida

The criminal process in Florida follows a series of steps designed to ensure that justice is fairly served:

  1. Arrest and Booking: Once arrested, you will be taken into custody and processed.
  2. First Appearance: Within 24 hours, you will have an initial appearance before a judge to be informed of the charges against you.
  3. Bail/Bond Hearing: At this stage, the court will decide whether you will be granted bail or bond, allowing you to be released while awaiting trial.
  4. Arraignment: This is where you will enter a plea (guilty, not guilty, or no contest) in response to the charges.
  5. Pre-Trial Motions: During this stage, your lawyer will gather evidence, interview witnesses, and file any necessary motions to strengthen your defense.
  6. Trial or Plea Bargain: If your case goes to trial, a judge or jury will determine your guilt or innocence. In many cases, your lawyer may negotiate a plea bargain to reduce the charges or penalties.
  7. Sentencing or Acquittal: If convicted, you will receive a sentence. If acquitted, the charges will be dropped, and you will be free to go.

The Florida Criminal Court System

Florida’s criminal court system is divided into several levels, depending on the severity of the offense:

  • County Court: Handles misdemeanor cases and minor offenses.
  • Circuit Court: Deals with felonies and more serious criminal matters, including trials and sentencing.
  • Appellate Court: If you are convicted, you may appeal your case to a higher court for a review of legal procedures.

What to Do If Arrested in Orlando

Being arrested can be a frightening experience, but knowing how to react is essential:

  1. Stay Calm: Do not resist arrest, as this can worsen your situation.
  2. Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent: Anything you say can be used against you, so it’s best to remain silent until you consult with your lawyer.
  3. Request Legal Counsel: Politely ask to speak to your attorney as soon as possible. This is your right, and having a lawyer present can help protect you from self-incrimination.
  4. Do Not Consent to Searches: Without a warrant, the police should not search your property. You can calmly decline their requests for a search without a proper warrant.
  5. Follow Legal Procedures: Once arrested, you will be taken to a police station for booking and fingerprinting. Stay composed and wait for your lawyer to arrive.

What Happens After You’re Arrested?

You’ve been arrested and unsure of what happens next. Here is a brief breakdown of the process and what you should expect. Remain respectful at all times and follow court orders. During this time you will communicate with your attorney often and assist with your defense.

First Appearance: You have the right to appear before a judge within 24 hours of your arrest. Here, you are told what charges the police have alleged. The judge will determine if there is probable cause for your arrest. Do not talk about the case. It is not time to hear your side of the story. Your only role is to listen and then call your attorney. This hearing is recorded. The judge will set a bond for you at this hearing and any conditions for your release. If it’s more than you can afford your attorney can request a hearing and ask that the amount be lower.

Arraignment: Here you are either read the information or read the charges. You will be talking at this hearing but very limited. You will first plead not guilty, guilty or no contest. If you are unsure about anything it is best to plead not guilty at this time. Next, you will need to tell the court what you would like to do about an attorney. You can either request a public defender or represent yourself or hire a private attorney. You must financially qualify for a public defender. Be honest on your application, it can be used against you later. That’s all, there is nothing else you should be talking about at this hearing. This hearing is recorded, and any admissions or information can be used against you. The State may give an offer at this hearing but without having an attorney review your case you won’t be sure this is in your best interest.

Bond hearing: If you couldn’t pay the bond amount you were given your attorney can file a motion for a bond hearing. At this hearing your attorney will ask you or family members questions under oath and argue to the court for your bond to be reduced so that you can go home.

Pretrial Conferences/Case Management Conferences/Trial Conferences: There will be quite a few court appearances before your case actually goes to trial. You have the right to go to trial within 175 days from arrest for felonies or 90 days from arrest for misdemeanors. During this time your attorney should be reviewing evidence, talking to witnesses, strategizing defenses with you, appearing to court on your behalf and negotiating with the State.

Depositions: If you have been charged with a felony, we have the right to take depositions in the case. With an experienced defense attorney depositions are a great way to lock witnesses’ testimony and uncovering defenses. Cases can be won after a thorough deposition.

Trial: At trial a jury is selected after both sides talk to the jury panel. You will assist your attorney in choosing the jury. Next, both sides can give an opening argument. Then the State will have witnesses testify and present evidence. After, defense is given the opportunity to call witnesses or present evidence. Finally, both sides can give a closing argument. The jury then deliberates and comes back with a verdict. If the decision is guilty the Judge decides the sentence. If the decision is not guilty the case is over and you go home.

Appeals/Expungement & Sealing: There are a few post-trial options which include having your case re-tried or removing the conviction from your record. You will have your attorney to assist with these options.

What NOT To Do When You Are Arrested?

Being arrested can be a shocking, stressful, and even humiliating experience. You may want to defend yourself right on the scene, tell your side of the story, but this is never a good idea. Share these tips with your friends and family because it can save everyone from some crucial mistakes, contact our Orlando criminal attorneys if you need further assistance.

Don’t Talk: The time to defend is in the courtroom and with your attorney, not on the side of the road with adrenaline pumping. The police are waiting for you to admit to crimes, show them where evidence is or say things to add more charges. You have the right to remain silent- use it. Even after arrest do not call home and explain every little detail. You need to speak to your attorney only- the lines are recorded.

Don’t Give Consent: If they’re asking it’s not because their using manners, it’s because legally they can’t search. The only way around this is by you saying, “Sure, I have nothing to hide”. Not only did that vague answer allow them to search practically everywhere you just gave up your right to privacy. Anything they find can add new charges or be used against you later. The answer is always no.

Don’t Run: I know, fight or flight, but honestly once the helicopter has spotted you and the canine is let loose, you’re not getting away. Guess what you won for your attempt, a new charge! Act against all urges to run and stay put. You’re nervous but you must stay quiet and call your attorney.

Don’t Resist: As much as you’d rather not, let the cuffs go on. Tussling with four officers on your back is not a good idea. I’m sure you know by now what you win, a new charge! Again, the time to defend is in the courtroom with your attorney.

Don’t Hire Just Anyone: Make sure the attorney has experience handling your type of case. Make sure they are willing to take the time to work on your defense. Make sure you are comfortable with their work ethic and professionalism.

An Orlando Criminal Lawyer at Joshi Law Firm, PA Can Help

When faced with criminal charges in Orlando, having an experienced and dedicated criminal defense attorney is crucial. The team at Joshi Law Firm, PA, is committed to defending clients against a wide range of criminal accusations, from minor misdemeanors to serious felonies. Understanding the criminal justice process and knowing what steps to take if arrested can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Joshi Law Firm, PA, specializes in criminal defense and has a proven track record of successfully defending clients in Orlando and across Florida. Here’s how we can assist you:

  • Personalized Defense Strategies: Every case is unique, and we tailor our defense approach to fit your specific circumstances and charges.
  • Aggressive Representation: Whether negotiating plea deals or defending you at trial, we aggressively fight for the best possible outcome.
  • Expert Knowledge of Florida Law: With a deep understanding of the Florida criminal code, we navigate the complexities of the legal system with precision.
  • Compassionate Guidance: We understand that facing criminal charges can be stressful, and we are here to guide you through every step of the legal process with compassion and dedication.

The central Florida criminal defense legal team at the Joshi Law Firm, PA is ready to fight for you, your family, and your rights. Please contact our office for further inquiry or if you would like to set up a consultation. Call our Orlando criminal defense lawyers today at 407-661-1109 to find out how we can help protect your freedom and your future.

Trusted Criminal Defense Lawyers

Rajan Joshi

Founding Partner

Central Florida Criminal Defense Lawyer Rajan Joshi received his Bachelors degree from the University of Central Florida in 1996, and earned his law degree with Honors from the University of Florida College of Law in 2000. While in law school, Rajan Joshi demonstrated academic excellence, earning the highly coveted Book Award in Criminal Procedure (highest grade). Mr. Joshi was also selected and employed by the Dean of ... read more

Michelle Yard

Attorney

Michelle Yard is a criminal defense attorney who is Board Certified by the Florida Bar as a specialist and expert in Criminal Trial law. She has seventeen years’ experience defending criminal cases in Central Florida. She is a member of the Bar in the State of Florida, United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida, Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals, and Supreme Court of the United States. ... read more

Deborah Barra

Attorney

Deborah Barra had been a lawyer for close to 20 years. The first seventeen years as a prosecutor in Orange and Osceola County, and the past three years as the Chief Counsel for the Sheriff of Osceola County. As a prosecutor, she became the Chief Assistant and supervised all the 165 prosecutors in Orange and Osceola County. She was also the Chief of the Sex Crimes Division, Chief of the Grand Jury, and on the Death Penalty Board. She has tried over 150 jury trials ... read more

Stefan Barber

Attorney

Stefan Barber joined the Joshi Law Firm in 2024 having spent his entire legal career as a criminal defense attorney. He is a keen legal mind and a compassionate, fierce, and zealous advocate for his clients regardless of the allegations against them. He believes that the prosecution’s case must always be attacked in every way possible, whether through trial, stand your ground motions, suppression motions, and/or dismissal motions... read more

Delivering
Results
That Matter

Not Guilty 2021

Mr. Joshi took on a challenging case where he was hired six days before trial on a possession of a firearm by a convicted felon offense—among other significant charges ... read more

Not Guilty 2021

The Joshi Law Firm, PA defended a client at trial that was facing a second DUI. At trial, the evidence illustrated that the Defendant was pulled over for speeding ... read more

Guilty of a Misdemeanor 2020

The Joshi Law Firm, PA tried an armed burglary case. The client was accused of forcing himself inside the residence of his ex-girlfriend’s house, brandishing a ... read more

Not Guilty 2017

Mr. Joshi represented a client that was charged with sexual battery on a minor, among other sex offenses. Our client was the minor victim’s school sports coach and ... read more

Not Guilty 2016

Mr. Joshi defended a client that was accused of exposing his penis to a minor at a Publix Supermarket. Although there was ample evidence proving the Defendant’s guilt ... read more

Not Guilty 2014

A client was facing his third DUI arrest. There was an eyewitness that saw the Defendant drive off the road—inevitably hitting a tree. The facts reflect that ... read more

Not Guilty 2014

The evidence showed that law enforcement received two calls, in the early morning hours, of a person driving on the wrong side of the road and swerving all over the place ... read more

Not Guilty 2007

A man described as patriotic, who faced prison time for wearing a U.S. Army uniform at Orlando International Airport, won a legal battle ... read more

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In The News

Articles

Orlando doctor reaches plea deal by providing new vaccines.

Attorney Rajan Joshi of the Joshi Law Firm, PA discussing how his firm helped his client make sure that all her patients are safe and properly treated.

Read More on WESH 2
Mr. Joshi on Behind The Law

Mr. Joshi on Behind The Law while recording at BUD 94.1 FM discussing criminal law and the Noor Salman trial.

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No Jail Time For Doctor Accused Of Hiring Hitman

WFTV learned on Tuesday that a doctor arrested accused of trying to hire a hitman

Read More on WFTV
This Attorney Inspires In The Courtroom and Outside It

Attorney Rajan Joshi was interviewed by ForeverFit regarding his healthy lifestyle and the quest to be his fittest self.

Read More on ForeverFit

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Clients Are Saying

5 Stars

Mr. Joshi is wonderful! He’s quick & efficient with the communication. He explained everything perfectly throughout the whole process & I ended up winning in the end. I high recommend... read more

5 Stars

I recently had the opportunity to work with Rajan Joshi on a criminal defense matter, and I would like to share my experience. Firstly, Joshi demonstrated a solid understanding of... read more

5 Stars

Twice now I’ve had to engage the services of the Joshi Law Firm, and in both instances the personal touch by Rajan and his top-notch team have produced the desired... read more

5 Stars

I cannot express how grateful I am for Rajan Joshi's incredible support and expertise as my criminal defense attorney. From the moment I reached out to him, Rajan was attentive,... read more

5 Stars

I hired my lawyer to deal with a traffic case that involved the other person being injured due to said accident and when I hired them she was able to... read more

5 Stars

I was very fortunate for my family to be represented in a very serious legal challenge by Joshi Law Firm. From the very beginning Rajan spoke with concern, compassion, and... read more

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Our family was going through the worst experience in our life with our son, which we hope no one will ever go threw in their life. I want to thank... read more

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