DeLand Criminal Defense Lawyers

Strong Defense for Volusia County Criminal Cases

If you have been arrested in DeLand or are under investigation in Volusia County, your case may progress quickly. Even one charge can threaten your freedom, employment, driver’s license, reputation, and family stability, especially if you must make decisions before understanding the process.

At Hager & Schwartz, P.A., we represent clients in DeLand and throughout Volusia County, as well as across Florida. Early action is critical. You do not need a lawyer with a physical office in DeLand; what matters is experience with Florida criminal procedure, insight into prosecutorial strategies, and readiness to protect you at every stage. The Seventh Judicial Circuit serves Volusia County, with the courthouse located at 101 N. Alabama Ave. in DeLand.

As former prosecutors, we understand how the state builds its case, where weaknesses may exist, and the importance of early action. Our practice is dedicated solely to criminal defense, and we tailor our strategies to the specific facts of each case.

If you need legal guidance from a DeLand criminal defense lawyer, contact us to schedule a consultation.

Criminal Charges We Handle in DeLand

We represent clients facing a broad range of criminal charges in DeLand and throughout Volusia County.

Our attorneys provide defense for:

• DUI: A DUI arrest can result in driver’s license suspension, court appearances, fines, probation, and possible jail time. Early review of the stop, field sobriety tests, and breath or blood evidence is critical.
• Drug crimes: Drug cases may involve simple possession, possession with intent, trafficking allegations, prescription-related accusations, or search and seizure issues that need close review.
• Assault and violent crimes: Charges involving assault, battery, aggravated battery, or other violent offenses often turn on witness credibility, self-defense claims, and the surrounding context.
• Theft crimes: Shoplifting, petit theft, grand theft, fraud-related theft offenses, and embezzlement allegations can carry consequences that reach far beyond court, including damage to employment opportunities.
• Domestic violence: These cases move quickly and can affect where you live, who you can contact, and whether a no-contact order is entered as part of release conditions.
• Federal charges: Some cases involve federal investigators or federal court exposure, which can raise the stakes and require a defense strategy tailored to a more complex process.

Florida criminal charges and penalties are defined by statute, while prosecution in Volusia County falls within the Seventh Judicial Circuit.

What Happens After an Arrest in DeLand?

For many facing criminal charges, the first question is not “How will this end?” but “What happens now?”

In general, the process may look something like this:

• Booking after arrest: After an arrest, you may be booked into custody and processed. This typically includes recording basic information, fingerprints, and the charge information.
• First appearance/bond hearing: Under Florida Rule of Criminal Procedure 3.130, an arrested person who has not already been lawfully released must be taken before a judicial officer within 24 hours of arrest. This is often where the court addresses the charges, rights, and conditions of release.
• Arraignment: Arraignment is the stage where the charge is formally addressed and a plea is entered. Florida’s criminal rules also allow counsel, in many situations, to file a written plea of not guilty and to waive arraignment.
• Pretrial stages: After arraignment, the case may move into discovery, motions, negotiations, hearings, and trial preparation. The exact timeline depends on the charge, the assigned court, and whether the person remains in custody.

The most important thing to understand is that early action matters. A Volusia County defense lawyer can begin reviewing the allegations, protecting your rights, preserving helpful evidence, and addressing court appearances before the case gains unnecessary momentum. 

We are available 24/7 because these issues do not arrive on a convenient schedule, and a prompt response can make a meaningful difference.

Defense in Volusia County Courts

Volusia County cases proceed through a local court system with established procedures, judges, prosecutors, and scheduling requirements.

The Seventh Judicial Circuit includes Volusia County and other nearby counties, and court facilities for Volusia matters are located in DeLand, Daytona Beach, and other locations, depending on the type of case and where the alleged offense occurred.

This local structure is important. DeLand is the county seat and home to the Volusia County Courthouse. The circuit reports over 140,000 cases filed annually, with many assigned in Volusia County.

Defendants benefit from counsel who understands Florida criminal procedure, identifies early pressure points, and advocates effectively before the prosecution’s narrative is established. We prepare each case for negotiation and trial.

We Represent Clients in DeLand and Across Florida

Many people ask whether they need a lawyer based in the same city as the arrest occurred. Generally, this is not required. We represent clients in DeLand, throughout Volusia County, and across Florida.

What matters is not a lawyer’s address, but whether they can respond quickly, understand Florida criminal litigation, and have the courtroom experience to challenge the prosecution. Our team represents clients in Broward, Miami-Dade, Volusia, and other courts statewide.

Clients seek access, not distance. They want clear communication, honest guidance, and a lawyer who treats their case with the importance it deserves.

Why Clients Choose Our Team

Clients choose our team for more than basic defense. They want lawyers who understand both sides of the courtroom.

As former prosecutors, we know how charging decisions are made, how weaknesses can go unchallenged, and how to build a defense based on facts. We focus exclusively on criminal defense, which keeps us strategic, responsive, and prepared for trial.

Clients also value our personal attention. Criminal accusations are disruptive, and clients deserve direct communication, practical answers, and a legal strategy tailored to their needs. We offer free initial consultations and payment plans so that experienced defense is accessible when needed most.

Speak with a Criminal Defense Lawyer Serving DeLand

If you are facing criminal charges, waiting can make your situation more difficult. We represent clients in DeLand and throughout Volusia County, and we are available 24/7 to discuss your case and next steps.

If you were recently arrested, have a first appearance or arraignment soon, or believe you are under investigation, now is the time to get informed. At Hager & Schwartz, P.A., our DeLand criminal defense attorneys can help you understand the process and your options.

Contact us for a free consultation before speaking with law enforcement or appearing in court. 

Frequently Asked Questions

When someone is charged with a crime in DeLand, the first questions are often immediate and practical: where the case will be heard, what happens after an arrest, and whether to involve a lawyer immediately.

Where Are DeLand Criminal Cases Handled?

Criminal matters arising in DeLand are generally handled through Volusia County courts within the Seventh Judicial Circuit. The exact court location can vary depending on the charge and circumstances, and the Volusia County Clerk notes that it is generally based on where the offense occurred.

Can a Lawyer from Another City Represent Me in DeLand?

Yes. In general, a Florida criminal defense lawyer from another city can represent you in a DeLand case. What matters most is whether the attorney is licensed in Florida, understands Florida criminal procedure, and is prepared to handle the case effectively in Volusia County court. Hiring a defense lawyer near DeLand is a strategic move that can help you navigate your case.

What Happens After an Arrest in Volusia County?

The process usually begins with booking, followed by a first appearance if not released. The case may then proceed to arraignment, pretrial proceedings, motions, negotiations, and trial preparation. Details vary by charge and custody status, so involving defense counsel early is recommended.

Can Charges Be Reduced or Dismissed in Florida?

Sometimes, yes. This depends on the facts, strength of the evidence, legal issues, witness credibility, and the prosecution’s position. No outcome is guaranteed, but early defense review may reveal opportunities for diversion, evidentiary challenges, negotiation, or dismissal.

Do I Need a Lawyer Before My First Court Date?

In most cases, yes. Early actions can affect release conditions, case direction, evidence preservation, and how the prosecution views the defense. Legal guidance before your first court date helps you avoid mistakes and make informed decisions.