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• Federal & State Crimes •

Former Prosecutor & Board-Certified Criminal Defense Attorney

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Ben Stechschulte
How We Stand Out
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    Thorough Investigation & Steady Defense
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    Former Prosecutor
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    Board-Certified
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Tampa Bay Board Certified Criminal Defense Attorney

Representing Clients
In Tampa Bay, Florida

At StechLaw Criminal Defense, clients turn to us when the stakes are high and their future is on the line. As a former prosecutor, our Tampa board-certified criminal defense attorney brings proven experience, strategic insight, and a calm, steady presence to every case we handle. Our firm was built on the belief that every person deserves strong, skilled representation, no matter the charge or circumstance.

With deep roots in the Tampa community, we have spent years defending individuals facing allegations ranging from misdemeanors to serious felonies. Our board certification reflects the highest level of professionalism and legal competence in criminal law, earned through rigorous testing, significant trial experience, and a demonstrated commitment to ethical practice.

When you work with StechLaw Criminal Defense, you get a team that treats your case as a priority, not a file number. We take the time to understand your situation, outline your options, and build a defense tailored to your needs and goals. From the first call to the final outcome, we are here to guide, advocate, and stand firmly in your corner.

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Why Choose StechLaw

Our team combines board-certified knowledge with a long track record of successful case results, giving you confidence that your defense is in capable hands.

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    Relentless Advocacy

    As a former prosecutor, Attorney Ben Stechschulte approaches every case with determination, persistence, and a commitment to pursuing the strongest defense possible.

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    Top-Rated Representation

    Clients trust our firm for consistently high reviews, proven results, and a reputation built on professionalism and integrity.

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    Client-Centered Team

    Our team stands with you from day one, giving your case the focus, attention, and care it deserves at every step.

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Practice Areas

Our firm skillfully handles a wide range of criminal cases.

Federal Crimes

Not every attorney is equipped to handle federal criminal defense cases and you need a seasoned federal defense lawyer in Tampa to help in your defense.

Federal Crimes

State Crimes

From initial arrest through final resolution, we build a strategic defense against state charges, focused on protecting your record and your future.

State Crimes

DUI

Aggressive DUI defense from a former prosecutor and board-certified criminal trial lawyer focused on protecting your license, record, and future.

DUI

  • Federal Crimes

  • State Crimes

  • DUI

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“He will fight for you and make sure you are treated fairly. I would recommend Ben to anyone.

Maurice
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Client Reviews

Real feedback from clients who trusted us with their future.

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Adam Amore
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I had a great experience working with this firm. They were professional, knowledgeable, and incredibly helpful throughout the entire process. They took the time to explain everything clearly, answered any questions I had, and always treated me with patience and understanding. I truly appreciated how approachable and supportive they were from beginning to end. I would absolutely recommend them to anyone looking for reliable and compassionate legal representation.
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Joan
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I was at the lowest point of my life when I started researching the top attorneys who could handle my case. It was a life or death situation, and Ben was the only one who I felt truly listened, understood the situation, and showed the confidence and optimism that we could get the result I needed. He is a top notch attorney with deep expertise in the law. Darci was also amazing from day one, on top of everything, and giving me full confidence that whatever she was handling, the best possible work was being done. The process was hard. It took patience, trust, and real emotional investment. But what carried me through was knowing I had a strong team behind me. In the end, my innocence came through and the case was dismissed! If you are facing a legal issue and need people who will fight for you and know what they are doing, I cannot recommend Ben and Darci enough.
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Tampa Bay Clients
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From initial contact, through the conclusion of a DUI related case, the StechLaw Criminal Defense team lawyer Ben Stechschulte and paralegal assistant Darci Banner, were quick to respond, answer questions and address concerns. We chose Ben because of his experience as a prosecutor and a defender since he could examine the case from a 360 degree perspective. He and Darci were compassionate, positive and persistent in helping our family member navigate through a stressful time to achieve the best outcome possible and reduce charges to reckless driving.
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Paul Phung
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I can’t recommend Ben highly enough. His team(Darci) made the entire process so much more manageable. They took the time to explain everything clearly, walked me through what to expect at each stage, and were always available when I had questions or concerns. What stood out most was how much calmer I felt after every conversation with them. They were thorough, professional, and genuinely seemed to care about the outcome of my case, not just as a job, but as someone’s life and future. I always felt like I was in capable, knowledgeable hands. If you’re looking for an attorney who combines real expertise with genuine compassion, I’d point you toward StechLaw without hesitation.
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Jared St Clair
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Ben and the team at Stechschulte Nell handled my federal firearm-related case with professionalism, discretion, and attention to detail from start to finish. Federal cases are extremely serious, and Ben stayed on top of every aspect of the paperwork, communication, and strategy throughout the entire process. He was straightforward, responsive, and clearly knew the system inside and out. The outcome of my situation turned out far better than I could’ve ever expected, and I genuinely believe that was because of the work Ben put in behind the scenes. On top of being an outstanding attorney, he was also just genuinely awesome and easy to be around during a very stressful time. He treated me like a person, not just another case file. If you’re facing a serious federal matter and need someone who will actually fight for you, communicate with you, and handle things the right way, I highly recommend Ben and this firm.
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Hamza Elalami
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Ben got my f1 and f2 charges dropped, he really went above and beyond my expectations. I’ve dealt with multiple lawyers in the past and wish I found him earlier. Highly recommend and will be referring friends to him.
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Pablo Valero
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I had a great experience working with Attorney Ben and his team. From the start, they were professional, responsive, and very supportive during a stressful time. First DUI offense, Ben clearly explained everything and guided me through the process. Darci was always quick to respond and kept everything organized, which made a big difference. Thanks to their hard work and expertise, my charges were dropped, and I couldn’t be more grateful. I highly recommend Attorney Ben and Darci to anyone needing a reliable and dedicated legal team in the Tampa Area.
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Cris
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I reached out to Ben Stechschulte with some questions regarding the trial process and how he would handle a case. He explained his process as a defense attorney in a way that was easy to understand and that gave me confidence in his ability to handle my case. I appreciate his history as a prosecutor and believe it has given him a unique perspective as an attorney.
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Victoria Beck
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Mr. Stechschulte is very knowledgeable as a criminal defense lawyer. He has ample experience and is board-certified, and his credentials are impressive.
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Farah Bercy
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I am impressed with my communication with Board-Certified criminal defense attorney Ben Stechschulte and his responses when I reached out to get a little more insight on what the job details, his thoughts on the practice and areas for improvement that would help the community as a whole. Thank you for taking the time out to answer my questions.
Meet The Attorney

Ben Stechschulte

Attorney Ben Stechschulte is a Florida Bar Board-Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer and former Hillsborough County prosecutor with extensive experience handling complex criminal defense cases. A graduate of Stetson University College of Law, he has tried numerous cases to verdict and managed thousands of criminal, DUI, and traffic matters throughout his career. As the founder of StechLaw Criminal Defense, Ben focuses exclusively on criminal defense, bringing clients the benefit of his prosecutorial background, trial experience, and a steady, client-centered approach to every case.

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Ben Stechschulte

Contact the StechLaw Criminal Defense law firm today for help. 24/7 Live Call Answering (813) 491-1073

Areas We Serve

Serving Tampa Bay & Throughout Florida

Committed to Our Local Community

From our Tampa office, our criminal defense attorney represents clients throughout Florida. No matter where you’re facing charges, we’re ready to fight for you.

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Criminal Defense Lawyer Tampa Bay, FL

7 Reasons StechLaw Should Be Your First Call After An Arrest

When you’re searching for a Tampa, FL criminal defense lawyer, you don’t just need legal representation, you need an advocate who will stand by your side, protect your future, defend your dignity, and fight back relentlessly when the system feels stacked against you. StechLaw Criminal Defense is built for that precise moment when you need someone in your corner. Here are seven compelling reasons why clients throughout Hillsborough County consistently trust our team when everything is on the line, and the stakes couldn’t be higher.

  1. We Know How High the Stakes Are and We Act Fast.

An arrest can threaten your job, your family, and your freedom overnight. Our team responds quickly, breaks down your options clearly, and steps in immediately to make sure your rights are taken seriously. When the situation feels urgent, we make you our priority.

  1. Real Trial Experience You Can Count On.

Many firms advertise aggressive defense but rarely go to trial. Attorney Ben Stechschulte is a seasoned courtroom litigator and former prosecutor who knows how to challenge evidence, question witnesses, and stand firm when prosecutors push hard. When you need a Hillsborough County criminal defense lawyer who actually fights, you’ll find one here.

  1. Personalized Defense Strategies for Every Client.

No two cases, or clients, are the same. We take the time to understand your story, your concerns, and the circumstances behind the charges. Whether you’re facing DUI, drug charges, domestic violence, or a complicated federal case, we build a defense plan tailored to your exact situation.

  1. Clear Communication That Reduces Stress.

The criminal justice process is confusing by design. We break it down in plain English, help you understand what to expect, and make sure you’re never left wondering what’s happening with your case. When you hire our firm, you get the direct support you deserve, not a runaround.

  1. A Reputation for Thorough Investigation.

Our firm digs deeper than the police report. We review body-cam footage, analyze the legality of the stop or arrest, question the reliability of testing methods, interview witnesses, and look for every opportunity to strengthen your defense. When there’s a flaw in the prosecution’s case, we find it.

  1. A Team That Treats You With Respect, Not Judgment.

Facing criminal charges is one of the most stressful and vulnerable moments in someone’s life. Our compassionate approach means that you feel heard, understood, and genuinely supported every step of the way. We take the time to listen to your concerns and answer your questions, making sure you know you’re not just a case number here, you’re a person whose future truly matters to us.

  1. Free Consultations and No Pressure, Ever.

Choosing the right criminal defense attorney in Tampa, FL is too important to rush. We offer free, confidential consultations so you can understand your options without stress or obligation. Ask questions, get clarity, and decide if we’re the right fit for you.

Whether your case is local to Tampa or involves surrounding counties, StechLaw Criminal Defense is ready to stand between you and the charges you’re facing. Contact us today and let our team fight for your freedom, your future, and your peace of mind.

StechLaw Criminal Defense

Defending Floridians Since 2005

StechLaw Criminal Defense is a Tampa-based criminal defense firm founded in 2012 by attorney Ben Stechschulte, a board-certified criminal trial lawyer and former Hillsborough County prosecutor who has worked in criminal law since 2005. From DUIs and drug and gun charges to violent, sex, and federal offenses, our team draws on years of experience on both sides of the courtroom to anticipate the State’s strategy and build tailored defenses that protect your record, your license, and your future. We combine the resources of a modern trial firm with the personal attention of a boutique practice, treating every client as an individual with a career, a family, and a lot at stake, not just a case number.

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I refuse to take a breathalyzer or chemical test at a DUI stop?

    Yes, you can refuse a breathalyzer or blood test if you’re stopped on suspicion of DUI. However, there’s a good chance you’ll automatically be charged with a DUI for refusing. Florida follows an implied consent law for breath or blood testing if a police officer suspects you’re operating the vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol. This means that by holding a Florida driver’s license, you tacitly consent to be tested. So, if you refuse, you may be going directly to jail. If this happens, call a Florida DUI defense lawyer right away, to help you protect yourself from the steep penalties the state imposes for DUI convictions.

  • Do I need a Florida criminal defense lawyer if I’m not guilty?

    Yes! If you’ve been arrested, you need a legal advocate to help protect your rights and protect you from being wrongly convicted. A lawyer can ensure that your civil rights aren’t violated, like the right to remain silent in police questioning and the right of protection from unlawful search and seizure. A lawyer can help get you out of jail on bond, challenge your arrest, and bring evidence before a judge demonstrating that you did not commit the crime. Without a lawyer, you’re alone, facing the powerful Florida criminal justice system.

  • Is Florida drug court an option for me?

    Maybe! It’s definitely something that your drug defense lawyer can help you explore. Drug court is an option for people who are charged with lesser offenses, like simple possession. Therefore, not an option for someone charged with felony drug trafficking or manufacturing, for example. The purpose of drug court is rehabilitation and sobriety, helping people make positive changes in their lives, stay clean, and keep out of trouble with the law. We’ll certainly help you learn more about this alternative to jail in your initial consultation.

  • What are some defenses that my Florida theft lawyer may use to help me?

    The defense that your attorney uses may depend on your situation. We may assert that you did not intend to steal or did not know that the property you had in your possession was stolen. We could also contest the methods the police used to investigate; you may have been a victim of an illegal search and seizure or even mistaken identity. Other defenses we’ve successfully deployed include challenging the evidence itself. We investigate the case on our own and gather our own evidence to help exonerate you.

  • What kinds of crimes would a Florida federal criminal defense lawyer handle?

    Federal crimes typically involve crossing state lines, such as credit card or wire fraud, mail fraud, or drug trafficking or manufacturing. Computer crimes and sexually-based computer crimes, like the dissemination of child pornography, are usually handled in federal court, as are many embezzlement or misappropriation of funds cases. Public officials charged with public corruption, including police officers, may also be tried in federal court rather than state court. It’s important to work with an attorney experienced in federal court, as the rules of evidence and criminal procedure differ from state rules.

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