The Greenwald Law FirmAlafaya is a fast-growing community in east Orange County along Alafaya Trail, next to the University of Central Florida. Arrests in the area may be made by the Orange County Sheriff's Office, the UCF Police Department or the Florida Highway Patrol, and charges are prosecuted in the Orange County courts of Florida's Ninth Judicial Circuit. The Greenwald Law Firm represents residents, workers and students charged with crimes in and around Alafaya.
Brian F. Greenwald, Esq. spent eight years as an Assistant Public Defender in Orlando, serving as lead counsel in more than 150 jury trials, and has more than 20 years of criminal defense experience. He handles every case himself, from the first call to the final hearing.
Charges we defend in Alafaya
The firm defends misdemeanor and felony charges, including:
- DUI and criminal traffic offenses
- Drug possession, sale and trafficking
- Domestic violence
- Assault and battery
- Theft and shoplifting
- Burglary and other property crimes
- Violation of probation
- Civil asset forfeiture
Charges that can affect students
For college students, a criminal case can reach far beyond the courtroom, affecting school discipline, scholarships, internships and future applications. Common charges near campus include DUI, possession of alcohol under 21, using or possessing a fake ID (which Florida treats as a felony), drug possession and battery arising from a fight. Some first-time defendants may be eligible for a pretrial diversion program that can end in a dismissal. Whether that is available depends on the charge and your record, which is why early advice matters.
After an arrest
An arrest in Alafaya usually means booking at the Orange County Jail and a first appearance before a judge within 24 hours, where bond and release conditions are set. Do not discuss the facts with police, roommates or on recorded jail calls, and contact a defense lawyer before your first court date.
Talking to your family and your school
Many students arrested near campus worry first about telling their parents or their school. A criminal case and a school conduct case are separate, and statements made in one can sometimes be used in the other. Before you write a statement, attend a conduct meeting or talk about the facts with anyone, get advice. Brian can explain how the criminal process works and help you avoid making the situation harder.
Frequently asked questions
Is having a fake ID really a felony?
Yes. Under Florida law, possessing or using a fraudulent driver's license is generally a third-degree felony. That is why these cases deserve attention, even for a first-time student.
Can a charge near UCF stay off my record?
It depends on the charge and the outcome. Some eligible first-time defendants complete a diversion program that ends in a dismissal, and some cases that end without a conviction can later be sealed or expunged. Your lawyer can tell you which options apply.
Where will my case be heard?
Cases from Alafaya are heard at the Orange County Courthouse in downtown Orlando, in Florida's Ninth Judicial Circuit.
Nearby communities
The firm also serves Union Park, Azalea Park, Oviedo and the rest of Orlando and Orange County.
Talk to a lawyer now
Call 407-807-0840 any time, day or night, or send a confidential case review request.