Relentless Clearwater Criminal Defense Attorney

Last updated on October 10, 2025

A criminal conviction can change the course of your life forever. A conviction can result in a damaged reputation, heavy fines, time behind bars and lost relationships, so you want to be sure that you are doing everything you can to protect your rights, freedom and future. The first step in defending your best interests during your case is contacting a Clearwater criminal defense attorney who is capable of standing up to your legal needs.

At the Finkelstein Firm, P.A., in Clearwater, I proudly fight for clients throughout Florida against their criminal charges. My name is Jenna Finkelstein, and whether you are facing a misdemeanor or felony charge, I am prepared to build a defense strategy that you can count on.

Exercising Your Right To Remain Silent

The right to remain silent is guaranteed by the Fifth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. This means that you do not have to answer questions that could incriminate you. You have the right to remain silent if a law enforcement officer questions you.

This includes investigations by any law enforcement agency, including local law enforcement like the Clearwater Police Department or the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office. It also includes federal law enforcement agencies like the FBI. In addition, your right to remain silent extends to all contexts. Whether you are being accused of a crime, were a witness to a crime or found yourself in a situation where members of law enforcement were “just asking questions,” as they like to call it, you have the right to remain silent.

Prior to questioning you while in custody, police must advise you of your right to remain silent. However, it is important to know that you must clearly and unequivocally invoke your right to remain silent. If you do so, police must cease questioning you. Even if you initially answer questions, you can invoke your right to remain silent at any point. A Clearwater criminal defense lawyer can help you understand and properly exercise this right.

Using Your Right To An Attorney

The Sixth Amendment guarantees your constitutional right to an attorney. This safeguard ensures fairness for anyone accused of a crime. With an experienced lawyer by your side, you have someone to protect your rights and guide you through the complexities of the criminal justice system.

Many people choose to hire a private defense attorney over using a public defender. This gives defendants better control over who represents them and their case. While this comes with more costs, it allows defendants to select the lawyer they believe is the best fit for their case based on experience and case results. In addition, private counsel can generally devote more time and energy to each case, unlike public defenders (who usually have unwieldy caseloads).

For those who cannot afford private counsel, the court will appoint a public defender. Even if you cannot choose your own attorney, you will never be forced to face criminal charges without legal representation.

When To Get An Attorney

It is always best to contact an attorney as soon as possible. Often, this means immediately after an arrest – and many people use their phone call from jail to notify a lawyer, schedule a meeting and begin building their defense.

In fact, legal representation may be important even before an arrest. If you are aware of a criminal investigation that concerns you, believe accusations are likely in your future, know a warrant has been issued for you or law enforcement has begun searching for evidence, you should act quickly. An early consultation with a defense attorney allows you to prepare for what may come, understand your options and protect your future. Many crucial mistakes can be made when an experienced defense attorney is not involved from the beginning of a case.

An experienced Clearwater criminal defense attorney can step in at any stage to provide the guidance and defense you need when the stakes are highest.

The Differences Between Misdemeanors And Felonies In Florida

In Florida, crimes fall into two categories: misdemeanors and felonies. Misdemeanors are less serious offenses, while felonies are more serious.

Misdemeanors carry a maximum sentence of one year in jail. Felonies carry a sentence of more than one year in prison. Some felonies carry a sentence of life in prison without parole. The most serious felonies carry the death penalty.

Examples of misdemeanors include driving under the influence (DUI), simple battery and petty theft. Examples of felonies include aggravated battery, grand theft and murder.

Felonies have greater long-term consequences. If you are convicted of a felony, then you will lose certain civil rights, such as the right to vote and the right to possess a firearm. A felony conviction can also impact your employment and housing opportunities. Because of these factors, if you are facing a misdemeanor or felony charge, you should consult with a Clearwater criminal defense attorney.

What Sets Me Apart From Other Criminal Defense Lawyers

I am one of the few attorneys who are certified to handle death penalty cases, and I am more than prepared to take on legal matters involving the heaviest penalties, whether they are assault charges, drug crimes or anything else. In my extensive experience, I have taken more than 80 cases to trial and have resolved thousands more outside of court.

I will aim to win your case in whatever way represents your best interests. I have a long record of success in my work, and my trusted reputation has even granted me a position as a legal commentator on stations like CourtTV. My deep knowledge of criminal law, paired with my fierce style of representation, can be the winning edge in your case.

As a highly skilled Clearwater criminal defense lawyer, I understand that there is more than one way to earn the best outcome possible in these cases. When crafting a strategy with you, I will help you weigh your options to determine whether to pursue a not guilty verdict, a case dismissal, or minimized charges and sentencing. Whatever it takes to defend you, I will be by your side every step of the way.

Protect Your Future: Consult A Clearwater Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you are facing criminal charges, let me help protect you in any way I can. If you are in one of the counties of Pinellas, Hillsborough, Manatee, Sarasota or Pasco, call my Clearwater office at 727-202-4418 or email me here to schedule your initial consultation today.