Drew Fritsch

I started my career as a prosecutor, but for the past 20 years, I have dedicated myself exclusively to criminal and traffic defense law. My professional path is marked by significant jury trial experience, which has given me a deep understanding of courtroom dynamics and defense strategies. As an advocate, I make it a priority to maintain close communication with my clients, always aiming to achieve favorable outcomes for them.

University of Dayton School of Law

J.D.

State University of New York - Buffalo

B.A. | Political Science and Psychology

Attorney

The Ticket Clinic

2021 - 2025

Provided criminal defense services to clients throughout the 20th judicial circuit

Owner

Fritsch Law Firm/Fritsch & Powell L.L.C.

2005 - 2021

Firm focusing on criminal defense and family law matters

Assistant State Attorney

State Attorney's Office for 20th Judicial Circuit

1997 - 2005

Criminal prosecution ranging from simple misdemeanors to complicated high level felony cases including murder

New York Youthful Offender Guide

2017

The Pocket Guide To New York DWI Law

2017

Torts and Family Law, Florida Gulf Coast University

2002

Peer Review Rated

Martindale-Hubbell

2014

Florida State Bar  # Bar #121150

1997 - Current

Florida

The Florida Bar

Since 1997

New York

New York State Office of Court Administration

ID Number: 4643110

Since 2008

• Free Consultation
• Credit Cards Accepted

Q. Received summons for petit theft in Florida, first offense. What to do?

March 13, 2025

A: You should definitely consult with an attorney prior to your arraignment. If the property was worth $100 or more it is actually a first degree misdemeanor punishable by up to a year in jail. If you can't afford to hire a private attorney you can apply for the public defender as well. Wal-Mart doesn't make a settlement offer. They are a witness/victim. The State Attorney's Office will be prosecuting your case and would make any offer.

If you have no prior record you may be able to get pre-trial diversion which could lead to the case being dismissed. Also, if this supposedly happened two years ago you may be able to get it dismissed based on a violation of the statute of limitations. The summons doesn't list witnesses and evidence. That will come later. Good luck. ... Read More

Q. Do I report adjudication withheld for traffic misdemeanor in FL on job applications?

February 17, 2025

A: This answer is based on you having no other connection to the criminal justice system. If the question is phrased "convicted of a crime" you would be correct in answering "no." If the application asks about arrests or mentions had adjudication withheld you would properly answer "yes." In Florida a withhold of adjudication means you are not convicted. This is very important for felony charges.

Q. What to expect with 2 out-of-county warrants & no bond holds?

February 17, 2025

A: I would agree with the public defender's strategy of resolving the one case fairly easily. I am assuming the other case is in a different part of Florida. That judge may or may not know what happened with regard to the other warrant. Further, the judge who issued the warrant may or may not be the first appearance judge who would initially see your boyfriend. Fellow judges do not often change bail recommendations on warrants. If it is a driving while license suspended charge, an attorney may be able to get him scheduled for court quickly and work out some kind of plea agreement with the State Attorney's Office. His other strategy would likely be to push for a bond hearing, especially if he has ties to the community where the warrant is. ... Read More