When you’re searching for legal help after an arrest, you might see two terms used interchangeably: criminal attorney and criminal defense lawyer.
But is there a difference between the two in Florida? Or is it just a matter of wording?
Here’s what those titles actually mean—and what really matters when you’re choosing legal representation.
🔹 Is There a Legal Difference Between the Titles?
No. In Florida—and throughout the U.S.—“criminal attorney” and “criminal defense lawyer” mean the same thing. Both are licensed attorneys who represent people accused of crimes.
“Criminal attorney” is more commonly used in marketing and search terms.
“Criminal defense lawyer” often appears in formal legal settings or court documents.
Both terms refer to a lawyer who defends clients charged with crimes like DUI, theft, assault, drug offenses, and more.
📌 Related:Best Criminal Attorney in Florida – What to Look For
🧠 What Actually Matters: Experience, Focus, and Local Knowledge
What matters most isn’t the title—it’s the track record.
When choosing a criminal lawyer in Florida, ask:
✅ Do they focus exclusively on criminal defense?
✅ Are they based in the county where your case is filed?
✅ Do they have trial and motion experience?
✅ Can they explain Florida-specific procedures like PTI or withhold of adjudication?
📍 Why Hiring a Florida-Based Criminal Lawyer Is Key
Florida criminal procedure is unique.
If your attorney isn’t familiar with local court policies, judge preferences, or how prosecutors handle certain charges, you could lose key opportunities for dismissal, reduction, or early intervention.
That’s why hiring a local criminal defense lawyer—regardless of what they call themselves—is critical.
📌 Related:Fort Lauderdale Criminal Attorney: Local Insight Matters
⚠️ Titles Can Be Misleading — Vet the Lawyer, Not the Label
Anyone can call themselves a “criminal attorney.” But are they:
Practicing full-time criminal defense?
Representing real clients in your local courthouse?
Responsive and transparent with your case strategy?
If not, that title won’t mean much when you’re standing before a judge.
📞 Need a Criminal Defense Lawyer in South Florida?
At Michael White, P.A., we serve clients across Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Plantation, and Broward County.
Whether you call us a criminal attorney or a defense lawyer—what matters is how we fight for your future.
📞 Call (954) 270-0769 or request your free case review.
🙋♂️ FAQs: Criminal Attorney vs. Criminal Defense Lawyer in Florida
Q1: Is a criminal attorney the same as a criminal defense lawyer in Florida?
⚖️ Yes. The titles are interchangeable. Both defend people charged with crimes.
Q2: Is there any difference in licensing or education?
🎓 No. All Florida lawyers must be licensed by The Florida Bar—regardless of their title.
Q3: Why do some lawyers use one title over the other?
🗣️ It’s often marketing. “Criminal attorney” has higher search volume. “Defense lawyer” may sound more traditional.
Q4: Does the title impact what kind of cases they take?
🚫 No. What matters is their practice focus—not what they call themselves.
Q5: What should I ask before hiring a criminal defense lawyer?
✅ Ask about trial experience, familiarity with local courts, and how they handle similar charges.