What should I do if I'm arrested in Martin County?
Remain silent and immediately request an attorney. Do not answer questions or consent to searches without legal representation. Contact Watson & Vasko at 772-288-1880. We represent clients in Stuart, Port St. Lucie, Palm City, and throughout the Treasure Coast.

1. Remain silent—do not talk to police without an attorney

2. Request a lawyer immediately

3. Contact Watson & Vasko at (772) 288-1880

4. Do not post about your case on social media

Can a Board Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer make a difference in my case?
Yes. Board certification requires rigorous evaluation, extensive trial experience (minimum 20 jury trials), and demonstrated expertise. Robert J. Watson has been Board Certified since 1988—among the first in Florida—bringing 45+ years of criminal defense experience to your case.

How much does a criminal defense lawyer cost in Stuart, FL?
Legal fees vary based on case complexity. Watson & Vasko offers consultations and transparent pricing. Hiring an experienced attorney early can save money by avoiding convictions, reducing charges, or securing dismissals. 

How long does a criminal case take in Florida?
Timelines vary. Misdemeanors may resolve in weeks or months; felonies can take 6-18 months or longer. Federal cases often take 1-2 years. We work efficiently while ensuring thorough preparation for the best possible outcome.

Can you get a DUI dismissed in Martin County?
Yes. We've successfully won DUI dismissals by challenging breathalyzer accuracy, proving improper traffic stops, and exposing procedural errors. Even in strong prosecution cases, we often negotiate reduced charges like reckless driving to avoid DUI convictions.

Does your law firm handle probation violation cases?
Absolutely. Probation violations can send you to jail immediately. We represent clients at VOP hearings throughout Martin County and work to keep you out of custody through mitigation, negotiation, or trial.

Can I seal or expunge my criminal record in Florida?
Many arrests and some convictions are eligible for sealing or expungement under Florida law. Our attorneys review your case, determine eligibility, and handle the entire legal process to clear your record.

Do you represent clients in federal criminal cases?
Yes. We defend clients facing federal charges including drug trafficking, firearms offenses, white-collar crimes, and more in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida.

How long does a criminal case take in Martin County?
Case timelines vary. Misdemeanors may resolve in 3-6 months, while felonies can take 12-24 months. Our experience often speeds resolution through effective negotiation or aggressive trial preparation.

What's the difference between a public defender and a private attorney?
Public defenders are overworked, handling hundreds of cases simultaneously. Private attorneys like Robert Watson and Matthew Vasko provide personalized attention, one-on-one communication, and the resources necessary for thorough case investigation and trial preparation.