Autism Criminal Defense Serving Families Throughout Jacksonville For Over 25 Years

Autism Criminal Defense Attorneys in Jacksonville

Experienced Representation for Defendants with ASD

At The Law Offices of Jason K. S. Porter, P.A., our compassionate Florida defense lawyers understand the sensitive and emotional challenges that come with caring for a loved one with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). When it comes to criminal defense in Florida, defending individuals on the autism spectrum is especially important, as undergoing criminal proceedings can be exceedingly difficult for defendants with ASD and their families.

Fortunately, our Florida criminal defense attorneys have extensive experience representing clients from all diverse walks of life in Jacksonville and beyond. From property crimes to theft to bench warrants, our firm has the necessary legal knowledge and specialized skillset to defend your loved one with ASD. When you collaborate with us, you count on our compassionate advocates to deliver the strong defense your family deserves during this difficult time.

Preparing for a criminal case can be grueling for defendants with autism. Contact us online to consult with a compassionate ASD defense lawyer in Jacksonville.

Understanding Autism & Criminal Defense in Florida

Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that affects individuals in various ways. People with ASD often face challenges with social interaction, communication, sensory sensitivities, and repetitive behaviors.

It’s essential to recognize that ASD is a spectrum, meaning that individuals can experience a wide range of symptoms and abilities. Some individuals with ASD may also have intellectual disabilities, while others may excel in specific areas such as mathematics or art.

Importance of Hiring a Qualified Autism Defense Lawyer

If you or a loved one has Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and is facing criminal charges in Florida, it’s important to understand how this developmental disability can affect individuals and the significance of hiring an experienced ASD defense lawyer.

At The Law Offices of Jason K. S. Porter, P.A., we specialize in providing dedicated legal representation for defendants with ASD in Jacksonville and the surrounding areas. Our firm strives to ensure our clients’ unique needs are fully understood and respected throughout the entirety of the criminal proceedings.

When it comes to criminal defense in Florida, individuals with ASD need and deserve specialized attention due to the unique characteristics of their disorder. Sadly, stigmas and common misunderstandings regarding ASD can perpetuate inequality and injustice for affected individuals in Florida’s criminal courts. This is why it’s so crucial to work with an experienced ASD defense lawyer.

Collaborating with a trusted autism defense attorney is important for many reasons, including:

Understanding communication differences: People with ASD may struggle with social cues, non-verbal communication, and understanding the intent behind certain actions or statements. This can lead to misunderstandings, misinterpretations, and a lack of awareness of legal consequences. An ASD defense lawyer understands these communication differences and can effectively advocate for their client, ensuring their voice is heard and understood.
Navigating sensory challenges: Sensory sensitivities are common among individuals with ASD. The overwhelming stimuli in a courtroom setting, including bright lights, loud noises, and crowded spaces, can significantly impact their ability to concentrate and participate in their defense. An ASD defense lawyer can work to create a comfortable environment or make accommodations that reduce sensory overload, allowing their client to fully engage in the legal process.
Addressing cognitive and emotional factors: Some individuals with ASD may have difficulty processing information, making decisions, or expressing emotions in a typical manner. This can affect their ability to understand the charges against them, make informed choices, or effectively convey their thoughts and feelings. An ASD defense lawyer has the necessary knowledge and experience to address these cognitive and emotional factors, ensuring a fair and just defense.
Advocating for fair treatment: Unfortunately, individuals with ASD are at an increased risk of being misunderstood, stigmatized, or treated unfairly within the criminal justice system. An experienced ASD defense lawyer is equipped to challenge any biases, stereotypes, or misconceptions that may arise during the legal proceedings, advocating for fair treatment and working towards the best possible outcome for their client.

Common Crimes Committed by Defendants with ASD

Like anyone else, individuals with ASD can find themselves involved in criminal matters for any number of reasons. While it’s important to understand that autism doesn’t inherently predispose someone to criminal behavior, there can be certain factors associated with ASD that contribute to the commitment of crimes.

Common examples of criminal offenses committed by individuals on the autism spectrum include:

Harassment/Stalking: Due to difficulties in understanding social cues and boundaries, some individuals with ASD may unintentionally engage in behaviors perceived as harassment or stalking. They may struggle to interpret the non-verbal signals of discomfort or have obsessions that lead them to fixate on certain individuals.
Assault/Aggression: Some individuals on the autism spectrum may experience challenges with emotional regulation or sensory sensitivities, which can occasionally result in outbursts of aggression. This could manifest as physical altercations or property damage during moments of overwhelming stress or sensory overload.
Property Crimes/Theft: Individuals with ASD may commit property crimes, such as theft or vandalism, due to difficulties understanding the concept of ownership or perceiving the consequences of their actions. They might struggle to comprehend the value and impact of taking someone else's property or engaging in destructive behavior.

It's important to note that these crimes are not exclusive to individuals on the autism spectrum, and not all individuals with ASD engage in criminal behavior. Understanding and addressing the specific challenges faced by autistic defendants within the criminal justice system is imperative to ensure justice is delivered.

That’s where our award-winning Jacksonville defense attorneys come in. With over 100 years of combined legal experience, our trusted firm is well-equipped to represent your unique needs and prioritize your specific goals throughout the duration of the criminal proceedings.

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Contact a Trusted Jacksonville Defense Attorney - Pick Porter!™

Our skilled criminal defense lawyers have a wealth of knowledge defending the accused in Florida in a variety of criminal cases, from domestic violence to assault to battery. If you’re facing criminal charges in Jacksonville or the surrounding area, securing a strong defense is vital to restoring your freedom and clearing your name. Our firm can aggressively defend your rights in criminal court by fighting tirelessly to drop or reduce the charges against you.

Our skilled ASD criminal defense lawyers passionately defend individuals with autism in Florida. Call (904) 701-0591 to schedule a consultation.

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I first met Jason Porter in 2003, when our children attended a Christian Preschool together. I saw what he did within our community. He helped many of the families from the preschool over the years so when it came time that my family needed a lawyer I chose him. Jason has helped my family and several of my personal friends, all with positive outcomes. He is a seasoned professional that is respected within the law community. You will be treated with the utmost respect and compassion. I don't know another lawyer of his caliber that offers free consultations and you speak to him personally. Pick Porter.

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My divorce litigated for close to two years as it was highly contentious and involved more complexities. Ms. Carlucci did a wonderful job of helping me understand and navigate the legal system. Ms. Carlucci set realistic expectations and was willing to listen to my concerns, questions, and thoughts. Divorce can be a very grueling and hard process. Ms. Carlucci provides great support and promotes collaboration with her clients.

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Retain them you’re in great hands! They will get the job done. Got my case dismissed. Will definitely use them in the future if need be.

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The purpose of this letter is to express our appreciation for Jonathan Thacher's legal services associated with our daughter's case. Jonathan was and is always available for questions. If we left a message, he would always get back to us in a prompt fashion. It isn't easy to find such a capable lawyer who seems to be in the right job. He is caring and very attentive to us. No questions went unanswered. Jonathan made us feel comfortable and confident that he would work diligently on our behalf. In the end, we felt blessed that we had the right person to help us when we felt lost. I can't tell you how important it is to choose the right lawyers for your case. He certainly lifted a weight off our shoulder to know that Jonathan and the firm's staff were working for us and a good conclusion to our problem.

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Just wanted to say thank you to Attorney Carlucci and paralegal Ms. Rasulova. They were very kind and extremely knowledgeable AND patient. Hopefully I will not need an Attorney in the future, BUT if I do it will be Pick Porter.

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There is nothing like the fear and uncertainty the legal system brings to keep you up at night, especially when it involves your child. For this reason selecting an attorney was one of the most daunting and important decisions I made; after much research that’s why I chose Jason Porter. Throughout the legal process Jason answered all my emails and phone calls, he figuratively provided the hand holding my son and mostly I needed to be reassured the outcome would be in our favor. Needless to say the outcome was in our favor and I could not have been more pleased with Jason’s service. I was so pleased with Jason’s professionalism and legal savvy that I asked if he practices law outside of criminal defense, so I could use his services for all my legal needs. He will always receive my business in the future.

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This was my first time ever getting a lawyer, and I am extremely pleased with the service I received. They moved fast, and my case was dropped. I will definitely go back to them and highly recommend this great Firm!!!! Jason himself is a pleasure to speak with!!! He’s very nice, understanding, and down-to-earth. Thanks so much you guys!!!!

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