Scott Skier
Scott Skier
The Skier Law Firm, P.A.
Scott Skier is a native of West Palm Beach. Growing up the son of a Palm Beach County Judicial Assistant to the Honorable James Stewart and the Honorable Fred Hazouri, Scott was immersed in the Palm Beach County court culture from a very early age. He is a recipient of the prestigious International Baccalaureate diploma, which he earned at Suncoast Community High School in Riviera Beach. Following his graduation from high school, Scott attended the University of Florida where he graduated cum laude a year early in 1997. Upon graduation, Scott went on to complete coursework for a graduate degree in Religious Studies at UF. Scott was admitted to the University of Maryland School of Law in 1999 and graduated in 2002. Following graduation, Scott returned home to West Palm Beach and was admitted to the Florida Bar in January of 2003.
Upon returning home, Scott accepted a position as an Assistant Public Defender in the Office of the Public Defender, 15th Judicial Circuit, Palm Beach County. While employed at the Public Defender’s Office he handled more than 50 jury trials within a three-year period. Scott used this time to hone his litigation skills and establish a strong rapport with his colleagues within the criminal justice system. In 2006, he founded his own law firm as a solo practitioner specializing in criminal defense.
As a criminal attorney, Scott routinely practices in both the state and federal courthouses. His areas of practice include the defense of individuals charged with federal offenses, homicide, racketeering, drug trafficking, violent crimes and all misdemeanor criminal offenses. Career highlights include the dismissal of homicide charges on the eve of trial and numerous not-guilty verdicts in matters as diverse as first-degree murder with a firearm to driving under the influence. However, it is the daily courtroom successes that Scott points to as evidence of the benefit of his counsel.
(561) 403-2868
Contact Scott Skier
Contact Scott Skier
About Palm Beach Criminal Defense Law
If you or your loved one is facing a criminal charge, it can be a nerve-wracking and intimidating time. Given the complexity of criminal laws and the potentially severe consequences, an experienced Palm Beach criminal lawyer is essential to navigating through this uncertain time.
Below we have provided some basic information about Palm Beach criminal law, including when and how a Palm Beach criminal defense attorney in can be most useful.
What Are Criminal Charges?
At its simplest, an individual is facing criminal charges when they have committed a crime. A crime is any act committed or omitted that violates a public law. The laws of Florida will define these forbidden acts. All crimes will generally fall into one of the following categories:
- Felony: Felonies are the most severe level of crime, generally punishable by imprisonment for more than a year, in addition to any fines. Examples of crimes that are considered felonies include murder, arson, and rape.
- Misdemeanor: Misdemeanors are lesser crimes, generally resulting in prison sentences of less than a year and lesser fines. Examples of misdemeanors include trespassing and vandalism.
- Infraction: Infractions are minor or petty crimes that normally do not result in jail time. Examples include speeding or running a red light.
While each of the above categories of crimes come with different punishments, each can have a significant impact on an individual’s life.
How a Palm Beach Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help
If you are facing criminal charges, you should contact a Criminal Defense attorney in Palm Beach as soon as possible. Regardless of whether you have committed some wrongdoing or if you are completely innocent, a licensed legal practitioner will be an invaluable resource throughout the criminal process.
A criminal lawyer in Palm Beach can assist in all facets of the criminal process, including:
- Ensure Your Rights are Protected. You may have heard the recitation of Miranda rights in movies or TV shows – including the right to an attorney. This is considered an essential right to those facing criminal charges because an attorney can ensure a charged individual receives all the rights they are due under the law.
- Understand the Legal Process. Criminal attorneys know the ins and outs of the legal process for criminal cases. They can assist you in any preliminary hearings, ensure your bail is set at a reasonable amount, and confirm that all legal procedures are being properly followed by the police and the prosecutor.
- Create Defense Strategy. Lawyers who work in Palm Beach criminal law have significant experience strategizing the most effective way to handle a case. This often includes striking deals with the prosecution and securing lesser sentences.
- Understand Case Precedent. One important tool in a successful criminal case is past case law. If there are past cases where a similarly situated defendant overcame criminal charges, an attorney can use this to persuade a judge or jury that you should see the same result.
As you or your loved one determines next steps for handling criminal charges, an Palm Beach Criminal Defense attorney will be an invaluable asset. The criminal legal process can present unexpectedly complicated twists and turns, where a wrong step could result in serious limitations on your personal liberty.
