criminal defense
Pasco County Criminal Defense Attorneys Who Know These Courts
EXPLORE criminal defense Cases We Handle
A charge is not a conviction. What happens in the next 24 to 72 hours — who you call, what you say, and how quickly your attorney gets involved — can shape everything that follows. Butash Law Group represents people facing criminal charges across Pasco County and North Tampa, with attorneys who appear regularly in the courts where your case will be heard.
DUI Defense
A DUI arrest in Florida triggers two separate processes — a criminal charge and an administrative license suspension — and both move on their own timelines. Early intervention matters.
Domestic Violence Defense
Domestic violence charges in Florida carry consequences that extend well beyond the criminal case — protective orders, custody implications, and professional licensing risks.
drug charges
Florida drug charges range from misdemeanor possession to felony trafficking, and the difference between them carries enormous consequences.
Expungement and Record Sealing
Not every charge has to stay on your record permanently. Florida law provides eligible individuals the opportunity to seal or expunge qualifying arrests and charges — removing or restricting access to records that affect employment, housing, and professional licensing. We assess eligibility and handle the process from start to finish.
Obstruction and Resisting Arrest
Obstruction and resisting arrest charges are among the most frequently misapplied in Florida criminal law. The line between lawful assertion of rights and criminal resistance is often contested — and the circumstances of the original encounter matter significantly to the outcome of the charge.
One Mistake Shouldn't Follow You for Life
Florida's expungement and sealing statutes give eligible individuals a genuine path to a cleaner record — one that doesn't surface in routine background checks and doesn't define every job application or housing inquiry you submit for the rest of your life. Eligibility depends on the nature of the charge, the disposition of the case, and your prior record history.
Frequently asked Questions
What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony in Florida?
Misdemeanors are less serious offenses carrying penalties of up to one year in county jail. Felonies are more serious and carry potential state prison sentences ranging from one year to life, depending on the degree. Both can result in a permanent criminal record, professional license consequences, and long-term collateral effects — neither should be handled without legal counsel.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Florida?
Yes. Misdemeanor convictions in Florida carry real consequences — including jail time, fines, probation, and a permanent criminal record that appears in background checks. Many misdemeanor cases can be resolved favorably with proper representation, including diversion programs that may result in dismissal. Going without an attorney increases the risk of an outcome you could have avoided.
What happens at arraignment in Pasco County?
Arraignment is your formal court appearance to enter a plea to the charges filed against you. In Pasco County, arraignments are held at either the Pasco County Courthouse in Dade City or the West Pasco Judicial Center in New Port Richey, depending on the case. Having an attorney present — or having one who has already appeared on your behalf — puts you in a significantly stronger position.
What if I miss a court date in Florida?
Missing a court date in Florida typically results in the judge issuing a capias — a warrant for your arrest — and potentially revoking your bond. Contact an attorney immediately if you have missed or believe you will miss a scheduled court date. The sooner the issue is addressed, the better the chance of avoiding additional charges or incarceration.
What Our Clients Say
What Clients Say About Working With Us

Claire M.
Franklyann C.
Adrian P.
Sean L.
Amber F.
Emeka H.
Caleb O.
Robert T.
Brad S.
Michael S.
Michael N.
Sarah
Taylor B.
Ashley E.
Tom S.
Jerry S.
Phillip S.
Tina W.
C. S.
Lana L.
Jayson S.
Mina T.
Sarah M.
Shannon G.
Ilia M.
Da B.
Kat S.
Marduke V.
Nora A.
JJ V.
Jacob W.
Andrew B.
Mrvegas13
Assad K.
Vince L.
Shawn D.
Edward N.
M A.
Mandy F.
Victoria G.
Saja B.
Jennifer D.
Frank M.
Al M.
Sahra
Lisa G.
Tiffany J.
Amanda R.
Dawn W.
Jack D.
Gabby S.
Russ C.
Addison M.
Nichelle C.
Alexandro L.
Dawn B.
Iannik
Melissa P.
Hayley L.
Carmen D.
Gaby D.
Dolis C.
Dunia S.
Arianna O.
Lintner J.
Christine
Teresa B.
Spyderwoman
Beth V.
Nicholas M.
Melissa D.
Wendy H.
Rick J.
rj S.
Doesthis M.
John H.
Anthony C.
Thomas P.
Johane B.
John J.
Katina P.
Jonavin R.
Kelly B.
Daisy G.
Brendan P.
Jim E.
Marvin M.
Leilani R.
Steven L.
Eddie C.
Jennifer M.
Chris S.
Margarita V.
Nora A.
Cassandra S.
Ulises M.
Dustin S.
Tanya R.
Amelia C.
Shawn S.
Mohammad R.
Emely R.
Treesandbees
What to Expect From the Process
Understanding how a claim works can make the situation feel more manageable. Cascade Injury Law focuses on making each step clear and predictable so you're never left guessing.
01
Initial Consultation
You'll discuss what happened, your injuries, and your options in a straightforward conversation.
02
Case Investigation
Evidence is gathered, including accident reports, medical records, and witness statements. Cascade Injury Law works with a variety of skilled experts in the fields of accident reconstruction, economics and medicine when needed to prove liability and the full extent of your damages
03
Insurance Negotiation
Claims are handled strategically to pursue fair compensation without unnecessary delays.
04
Resolution or Trial Preparation
Many cases resolve through settlement, but preparation ensures your case is ready if litigation is needed.

