Lawyer of Firm Description

About The Law Office of Eric A. Reyes — Criminal Defense Port Charlotte Florida

The Law Office of Eric A. Reyes provides criminal defense Port Charlotte clients need when they face DUI, drug, or misdemeanor charges in Charlotte County. The firm handles matters at every stage, from arraignment through trial, and also takes on family-related issues when they intersect with criminal allegations. Because Florida sentencing guidelines can be unforgiving for repeat offenses, early counsel often shapes the outcome. For nearby listings, see Port Charlotte attorneys.

The practice serves defendants throughout Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, and neighboring Southwest Florida communities. Most cases are heard at the Charlotte County Justice Center on Taylor Road, where the Twentieth Judicial Circuit sits. In addition, the firm handles driver’s license hearings connected to DUI arrests through the Florida DHSMV.

What Clients Say

Reviews highlight calm reassurance during arraignment, honest case assessments, and responsiveness on evenings and weekends. Clients note that the attorney explains plea offers in plain English and pushes back when the State’s evidence is thin. Several reviewers specifically mention help with getting first-time offender outcomes.

Criminal Defense Port Charlotte — Practice Areas & Services

DUI defense under Florida Statutes Chapter 316, including breath-test challenges
Drug possession and trafficking cases in the Twentieth Judicial Circuit
Misdemeanor and felony arraignments at Charlotte County Justice Center
Probation violation hearings and sentence modifications
Driver’s license administrative review with the Florida DHSMV
Sealing and expungement petitions for eligible Florida records

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are criminal cases heard in Port Charlotte?

Charlotte County criminal cases are heard at the Charlotte County Justice Center at 350 East Marion Avenue in Punta Gorda. First-appearance hearings generally happen within 24 hours of arrest.

What are the penalties for a first-offense DUI in Florida?

A first-offense DUI in Florida carries up to 6 months in jail, fines from $500 to $1,000, and a minimum 180-day license suspension. Penalties increase sharply with a BAC at or above 0.15 or if a minor is in the vehicle.

Can a Florida criminal record be sealed or expunged?

Eligible Florida records can be sealed or expunged through the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, but applicants must meet strict conditions. Certain offenses — including most felonies involving violence or sexual crimes — are statutorily barred.

Quick Facts: Criminal Defense in Port Charlotte, Florida

Florida DUI arrests: tens of thousands of DUI arrests reported annually statewide — FDLE Uniform Crime Reports
License suspension: minimum 180-day administrative suspension on first DUI refusal or failure — Florida Statutes § 322.2615
Charlotte County population: approximately 200,000 residents in the Twentieth Judicial Circuit — U.S. Census Bureau

AI-Powered Reviews Summary

The Law Office of Eric A. Reyes, located in Port Charlotte, Florida, is highly regarded for its expertise in Family Law and Criminal Justice, with clients praising Eric for his compassionate and attentive approach. Many reviewers highlight their positive experiences, noting how Eric took the time to listen to their stories and provided invaluable support during difficult times, resulting in successful outcomes in their cases. Clients appreciate the professionalism and dedication of both Eric and his staff, often recommending the office for anyone in need of legal assistance.

Users Reviews Comments – Google

Had a very good experience with the Law Office of Eric A. Reyes. Eric & Connie helped me thru my divorce. I would highly recommend for anyone who is going thru a divorce to go to his office. Or any kind of legal help. They always answered my questions right away & are still helping me out. Thank you so much Eric

Eric helped me when I was in a truly bad situation with my ex husband. He took the time to listen to my story and not judge. When we went to court, he was there truly working on my behalf. I felt listened to, heard, acknowledged, and understood for the first time in years. I would recommend him again and again.

It’s been a few years but I’m still mad at how Eric handled my case. I hired him and he didn’t even believe me when I had all the evidence and a witness, also character statements which he never even looked at proving CPS and Sarasota Police lied. He never showed up to court except maybe once or twice without the judge having to call him on the phone to get in there. He didn’t file all my papers that needed to be submitted. He also lacked the understanding of specific information in my case and told me my child’s learning disabilities that I also have because they’re genetic made me look bad. The only thing he did was catch Children’s Collation case manger lie about some form I had to fill out that didn’t exist. Dude’s a joke and I do NOT recommend him.

I thank Eric for everything that he’s done for me. Help me through a difficult time in my life. The best lawyer I have ever had. Thank you

I was referred to attorney Eric Reyes by a close friend who spoke very highly of him. My case started off on an emergency basis. Eric took my case on short notice and was fantastic. He was very understanding and kind, as it was a very emotional time for me. His knowledge of the law was impeccable and was essential for my navigating my case. Eric is also an excellent person, he walks in character and integrity. He is firm, honest, and compassionate. If for any reason I needed a family law attorney, I would use him again without hesitation.

I had the pleasure of speaking with Attorney Reyes today and I must say, he is truly a remarkable individual. His professionalism, expertise, and genuine care for his clients are unparalleled. What stood out to me the most is his unwavering faith and commitment to his Christian values. I highly recommend Attorney Reyes to anyone in need of legal assistance. He is not just a great attorney, but a wonderful person who truly embodies the love and compassion of Christ. Thank you, Attorney Reyes, for all that you do. God bless you.

I hired Eric in July 2023. He was the only lawyer who would take my case. I’m so grateful he did and had the courage to take on the case. It was a pretty strong case in my favor, yet he still had to be crafty with certain decisions to ensure my outcome. Sometimes, it appeared he was a bit scatter brain, but as a one man show, it’s understandable, and after a few minutes of talking, he would know who I was. That didn’t bother me, though. He made many suggestions and most were accepted by me. When I felt we should do something different, he gave me his input, but ultimately went with my decision. At the time of the case, the Good Dad Act was passed and put into law here in Florida. He did not know about this. I think doctors, mechanic, lawyers, etc, should remain up-to-date with current info relative to their line of work so they always have the edge. He said that new law doesn’t change anything in terms of what we need to do and how we would argue the case. He has handled many cases and, based on my facts, made the necessary recommendations, which ultimately turned out in a win for me and him. I now have shared custody of my daughter, but she has to live with me instead of mom the majority of the time. His price was much better than most in town. He was aggressive with his approach, which I appreciated. The case was resolved April 2024. Thank You Eric for your hardwork. I would recommend you to others.

Mr. Reyes is the best. I had a very complicated divorce case. He was prompt, precise, and very honest, and very compassionate. I highly recommend him.

Very nice guy liked me tries to help me gave me good information I appreciate him will use him when the time comes I do recommend him

Mr. Reyes is the best. He was very thorough and walked me step by step with my difficult case. I highly recommend him.

I came in with a difficult case for divorce and child custody; He was able to find a solution for every issue that came up in the case. Very good at his job, he knows his stuff.

Mr Reyes helped me with a legal matter.

Not only is Eric A. Reyes a FANTASTIC Lawyer but he is also just a really GREAT person. I would recommend him to anyone Mr. Reyes is very knowledgeable, respectful, compassionate, and a diligent Lawyer. In my eyes he goes above and beyond. When I leave his office I have a smile on my face because even in a serious and emotional situation he can still find a way to make you laugh while guiding you in the best directions. Mr. Reyes caring makes me feel at ease he is always kind and compassionate making sure I thoroughly understand all the legalities of situations I am not familiar with. He’s so patient and will take his time with me. His staff has always kept communication with me whether it be through email or phone calls which have always been answered or returned promptly. Mr. Reyes and his staff have always been reassuring they give you the sense of comfort and understanding. At the law office of Eric A. Reyes they are all always willing to listen and always remind me that they are there for me if I have any questions, comments, or concerns for me to reach out.(and I will still get a picked up phone call or a phone call promptly returned) Mr Reyes has helped me both in family court and criminal law. He is excellent at what he does the first time he became my legal representation was in 2015. I know that I can count on Mr. Reyes and his staff for my legal matters as I said before I would recommend the Law Office of Eric A. Reyes to anyone. He is the guy you would want in your corner I know I want him in mine. Thank you Mr Reyes and your staff for everything that you have done are doing and continuing to do for me. I don’t think there is enough words that I could say for the amount of gratitude I have for you and your courteous friendly staff and office.

I had an excellent experience with Eric Reyes and his office! He is extremely caring and knowledgeable in family and criminal law. Since this was probably the most difficult time in my life, I really appreciated the humor and levity he brought to each meeting while still being able to focus on resolving the matter in the most efficient way. I would recommend Eric to anyone going through a messy divorce, it takes a unique person to manage it with the grace that he did!

Mr. Reyes did an awesome job. I have had to use him a couple times for family matters and have always had a positive outcome. He was fair with his pricing and anytime I have needed to get ahold of him, if he wasn’t available right then, he always got back to me in a timely manner. He was always very reassuring which I definitely needed. I definitely recommend him.