J. Ruffin Hunt
Managing Member, Hunt Law
Attorney J. Ruffin Hunt is a Tampa criminal defense attorney and founder of Hunt Law, a firm focused exclusively on criminal and DUI defense throughout the Tampa Bay area. Born and raised in Tampa, Mr. Hunt earned his degree from the University of Florida before attending Stetson University College of Law. He began his legal career at the Hillsborough County Public Defender’s Office, where he gained extensive courtroom and trial experience handling misdemeanor, felony, and DUI cases. Over the course of his career, he rose to leadership positions within the office, serving as a Division Chief in multiple divisions.Mr. Hunt has dedicated his entire legal career to criminal defense and understands the serious consequences that criminal charges can carry. He represents clients facing a wide range of charges, including DUI, drug offenses, sex crimes, domestic violence allegations, theft crimes, violent offenses, probation violations, and other serious criminal matters. As a former board member of the Hillsborough County Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, Mr. Hunt remains committed to protecting the constitutional rights of individuals accused of crimes and providing aggressive, strategic representation for clients throughout Tampa Bay.
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Meet The Attorney Who Will Fight For You
When your freedom, reputation, and future are at stake, the attorney you choose matters. At Hunt Law, criminal defense is not just one area of practice, it is the sole focus. Attorney J. Ruffin Hunt has dedicated his entire legal career to defending individuals accused of crimes throughout Tampa and the greater Tampa Bay area. With years of courtroom experience handling misdemeanor, felony, domestic violence, sex crimes, DUI, and serious criminal cases, he understands what is on the line for his clients and approaches every case with urgency, preparation, and relentless advocacy.
Born and raised in Tampa, Mr. Hunt has deep roots in the community he serves. He understands the local courts, the prosecutors, the judges, and the unique challenges individuals face when accused of crimes in Hillsborough County and the surrounding areas. That local knowledge and experience provide clients with a significant advantage when navigating Florida’s criminal justice system.
After earning his undergraduate degree from the University of Florida, Mr. Hunt went on to attend Stetson University College of Law, one of Florida’s most respected law schools. Following law school, he began his legal career at the Hillsborough County Public Defender’s Office, where he gained extensive courtroom and trial experience representing individuals charged with crimes ranging from misdemeanors to serious felonies.
During his time at the Public Defender’s Office, Mr. Hunt handled a high volume of criminal cases and quickly developed a reputation as a skilled and aggressive advocate for his clients. He eventually rose to leadership positions within the office, serving as a Division Chief in multiple divisions, including intake, misdemeanor, and felony courtrooms. In these leadership roles, he supervised attorneys, managed complex criminal cases, and continued litigating serious matters in court.
This experience gave Mr. Hunt invaluable insight into how criminal cases are investigated, prosecuted, negotiated, and tried in Tampa courts. It also allowed him to build substantial courtroom experience that many attorneys simply do not possess. From negotiating favorable resolutions to aggressively fighting charges at trial, he has spent years standing beside clients during some of the most difficult moments of their lives.
Unlike firms that divide their attention among many different practice areas, Hunt Law is focused exclusively on criminal defense and DUI defense. Mr. Hunt believes that criminal cases require focused knowledge, strategic preparation, and an attorney who understands the complexities of Florida criminal law. Whether someone is accused of DUI, drug possession, domestic violence, theft, violent crimes, probation violations, firearm offenses, sex crimes, or other criminal charges, he works to build strong defenses tailored to the specific facts of each case.
Mr. Hunt understands that being arrested or investigated can be overwhelming. A criminal accusation can impact nearly every part of a person’s life, including employment, professional licenses, finances, family relationships, immigration status, educational opportunities, and personal reputation. Even a seemingly minor charge can carry long-term consequences. That is why he believes every client deserves serious, strategic, and individualized representation from the very beginning of a case.
Clients who work with Hunt Law receive direct communication, honest guidance, and aggressive representation throughout the legal process. Mr. Hunt takes the time to thoroughly analyze the evidence, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, challenge unlawful police conduct when appropriate, and pursue every available defense strategy. He understands that no two cases are alike, and he approaches every matter with careful attention to detail and a commitment to protecting his clients’ rights.
Over the course of his career, Mr. Hunt has handled cases involving sex crimes, DUI, drug crimes, violent offenses, firearm offenses, probation violations, domestic violence allegations, theft crimes, driving offenses, juvenile matters, and serious felony charges. He has represented clients at every stage of the criminal process, including investigations, first appearance hearings, bond hearings, motion practice, plea negotiations, trials, and sentencing proceedings.
In addition to his courtroom experience, Mr. Hunt has remained actively involved in the local criminal defense community. He previously served as a board member for the Hillsborough County Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, an organization dedicated to protecting constitutional rights and improving the practice of criminal defense in the Tampa Bay area.
As a Tampa criminal defense attorney, Mr. Hunt is committed to protecting the constitutional rights of individuals accused of crimes and ensuring that every client receives a strong and meaningful defense. He understands that good people can find themselves facing criminal allegations for many different reasons, and he believes every person deserves to be treated with dignity, respect, and fairness throughout the legal process.
At Hunt Law, the goal is not simply to process cases, it is to fight for the best possible outcome in every case. Depending on the circumstances, that may involve seeking a dismissal of charges, negotiating reduced penalties, pursuing diversion programs, challenging evidence through motions to suppress, avoiding a conviction, protecting a client’s driver’s license, or taking a case to trial when necessary.
If you have been arrested, charged with a crime, or believe you are under investigation in Tampa or the surrounding areas, speaking with an experienced criminal defense attorney as early as possible can make a significant difference in your case. Early intervention may help preserve evidence, protect your rights during questioning, improve bond conditions, and create opportunities to resolve a case more favorably.
Attorney J. Ruffin Hunt is proud to defend clients throughout Tampa Bay and remains committed to providing aggressive, experienced, and results-driven criminal defense representation for individuals facing criminal charges in Florida.
Hunt Law Client Testimonials
Address
625 E Twiggs Street
Tampa, FL 33602
Contact
Hours
Mon - Fri
8:30 am – 5:00 pm
Hunt Law serves clients charged with criminal offenses in Tampa, Brandon, Plant City, Riverview, Ruskin, Lutz, Valrico, Wimauma, Temple Terrace, Seffner, Dover, Thonotosassa, Gibsonton, Sun City Center, Town 'n' Country, Carrollwood, Citrus Park, Westchase, Bloomingdale, University, Progress Village, Lake Magdalene, Egypt Lake-Leto, Greater Northdale, Palm River-Clair Mel, East Lake-Orient Park, Mango, Keystone, Cheval, Balm, Pebble Creek, Apollo Beach, Lithia, Fish Hawk.
Important Hillsborough County Criminal Justice Locations
If you've been arrested in Hillsborough County, your case will likely involve several different locations. Understanding where your case begins and where it will proceed can help reduce confusion during an already stressful time.
Trusted Throughout Hillsborough County
Hunt Law has deep roots in Hillsborough County and remains actively involved in the Tampa Bay community through participation in several respected local and professional organizations. The firm is proud to be associated with the Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce, the South Tampa Chamber of Commerce, and the Ybor City Chamber of Commerce, organizations that play an important role in supporting local businesses, economic development, and community engagement throughout the region. As a Tampa native, attorney J. Ruffin Hunt understands the unique needs of individuals and families in Hillsborough County and is committed to serving the community both inside and outside the courtroom. These local affiliations reflect Hunt Law's ongoing commitment to professionalism, community involvement, and providing trusted criminal defense representation to clients throughout all of Hillsborough County.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What happens after an arrest in Tampa?
A: After an arrest in Tampa, you will typically be transported to Orient Road Jail for booking, where law enforcement will fingerprint you, take your photograph, record your personal information, and formally process the charges against you. Within 24 hours of your arrest, you must appear before a judge at First Appearance, where the court will determine whether probable cause existed for your arrest, decide whether to set bond, and impose any conditions of release. During this time, it is important to exercise your right to remain silent, avoid discussing your case with anyone other than your attorney, and refrain from consenting to searches if asked by law enforcement. As your case moves forward, early involvement by an experienced Tampa criminal defense attorney can help protect your constitutional rights, advocate for a favorable bond, preserve important evidence, and begin developing a defense strategy from the outset.
Q: What is a misdemeanor in Florida?
A: A misdemeanor in Florida is a criminal offense that is less serious than a felony but can still result in significant penalties, including jail time, probation, fines, and a permanent criminal record. A misdemeanor is an offense that can result in a term of imprisonment that doesn't exceed 1 year. Florida classifies misdemeanors as either second-degree misdemeanors, which are generally punishable by up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine, or first-degree misdemeanors, which can carry up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine. Common misdemeanor offenses include battery, petit theft, possession of drug paraphernalia, resisting an officer without violence, and disorderly conduct. Although misdemeanors carry lower maximum penalties than felonies, a conviction can still affect employment, professional licensing, housing opportunities, and other aspects of your future. Depending on the facts of the case, it may be possible to obtain a dismissal, diversion, reduced charges, or another favorable resolution, making it important to speak with an experienced Florida criminal defense attorney as early as possible.
Q: What is a felony in Florida?
A: A felony in Florida is a criminal offense punishable by more than one year in state prison and is generally considered more serious than a misdemeanor. Florida classifies felonies into five categories: third-degree, second-degree, first-degree, life felonies, and capital felonies, with penalties ranging from up to five years in prison for many third-degree felonies to life imprisonment for the most serious offenses. Examples of felony crimes include drug trafficking, robbery, aggravated battery, burglary, kidnapping, grand theft, and certain sex offenses. In addition to prison time, a felony conviction can result in substantial fines, probation, the loss of firearm rights, employment and professional licensing consequences, and a permanent criminal record. Depending on the facts of the case, however, felony charges may be reduced, dismissed, resolved through diversion, or successfully challenged at trial, making it important to consult an experienced Florida criminal defense attorney as early as possible.
Q: Do I need a lawyer if charges haven't been filed yet?
A: It can be beneficial. In many cases, hiring a criminal defense attorney before formal charges are filed can be one of the most important decisions you make. Whether you are under investigation, have been contacted by detectives, or were arrested but are still waiting for the State Attorney's Office to decide whether to file charges, an attorney can protect your rights, communicate with law enforcement on your behalf, and help you avoid making statements that could be used against you. Early legal representation also provides an opportunity to present favorable evidence, identify weaknesses in the allegations, address misunderstandings, and advocate for prosecutors not to file charges or to pursue less serious charges when appropriate. Although no attorney can guarantee a particular outcome, getting experienced legal counsel involved as early as possible often creates opportunities that may no longer exist once formal charges have been filed.
Q: What happens if I miss court in Tampa?
A: Missing a court date in Tampa can have serious consequences, including the issuance of a bench warrant for your arrest, revocation of your bond, or stricter release conditions. Whether a warrant is issued often depends on the type of hearing you missed, the underlying criminal charge, whether you are represented by an attorney, and the reason for your absence. While emergencies such as hospitalization, transportation problems, or scheduling errors may help explain a missed appearance, it is important to act quickly before the situation becomes more difficult to resolve. In many cases, an experienced Tampa criminal defense attorney can determine whether a warrant has been issued, file a motion to quash or recall the warrant, explain mitigating circumstances to the court, and work to minimize additional penalties. Ignoring a missed court date typically makes matters worse, so seeking legal guidance as soon as possible is often the best course of action.
Q: Can a no contact order in Tampa be modified?
A: Yes. In some cases, a no contact order in Tampa can be modified, but only by a judge. If you were arrested for domestic violence, the court may have imposed a no contact order as a condition of your pretrial release, prohibiting you from communicating with or coming near the alleged victim. The alleged victim cannot cancel or waive the order on their own, even if they want contact to resume. To request a modification, your attorney must typically file a motion asking the court to change the conditions of release. The judge will consider factors such as the nature of the allegations, whether injuries were involved, the parties' relationship, the alleged victim's wishes, whether children or shared housing are involved, and any ongoing safety concerns. In appropriate cases, a judge may modify a strict no contact order to a no violent contact order, allowing peaceful communication while still prohibiting threats or violence. Because violating a no contact order can result in bond revocation, additional criminal charges, or a return to jail, it is important to seek court approval before having any contact with the alleged victim.
Q: Can the victim "drop" domestic violence charges in Florida?
A: No. In Florida, the alleged victim cannot "drop" domestic violence charges because criminal cases are prosecuted by the State Attorney's Office, not by the alleged victim. Although the alleged victim can tell prosecutors they no longer want to pursue the case or submit an affidavit of non-prosecution, the decision whether to continue or dismiss the charges belongs to the State. Prosecutors often proceed with domestic violence cases even when the alleged victim does not want to cooperate, particularly if there is other evidence such as 911 recordings, body camera footage, witness statements, photographs, text messages, or medical records. If you have been charged with domestic violence, you should never contact the alleged victim in an attempt to have the charges dropped, as doing so may violate a no-contact order or even result in additional charges such as witness tampering. An experienced Florida criminal defense attorney can evaluate the evidence, protect your rights, and pursue the strongest possible defense.
Q: What happens at first appearance court in Hillsborough County?
A: First appearance is the initial court hearing that takes place within 24 hours of an arrest in Hillsborough County, where a judge determines whether probable cause exists for the arrest, advises the defendant of the charges, and decides whether to set bond and impose any conditions of release. In Hillsborough County, first appearance hearings are generally held in Courtroom 17 at 1:30 p.m. on weekdays and 10:00 a.m. on weekends and holidays, with most defendants appearing by video from the jail. During the hearing, the judge considers factors such as the nature of the offense, the defendant's criminal history, risk of flight, and danger to the community when making bond decisions. While some defendants (such as those arrested for violating probation or on certain warrants) may not be eligible for bond at first appearance, an experienced Tampa criminal defense attorney can advocate for lower bond, release on recognizance, and favorable release conditions, making early legal representation an important part of protecting your rights.
Q: What happens at an arraignment hearing in Hillsborough County?
A: An arraignment is a procedural court hearing where the judge formally advises you of the criminal charges filed against you and asks you to enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. Unlike a trial, no witnesses testify, no evidence is presented, and the judge does not determine guilt or innocence. In most cases, defendants plead not guilty, allowing the case to proceed to the discovery phase, pretrial hearings, negotiations, and, if necessary, trial. If you are represented by an attorney, your appearance at arraignment can often be waived by filing a written plea of not guilty and waiver of appearance with the court, although this depends on the specific case and court policies. Because important strategic decisions begin early in a criminal case, hiring an experienced Tampa criminal defense attorney before arraignment can help protect your rights, evaluate potential defenses, and position your case for the best possible outcome.
Q: Will my license be suspended if I'm arrested for DUI in Florida?
A: In most cases, yes. If you are arrested for DUI in Florida, your driver's license may be administratively suspended by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV), even before your criminal case is resolved. After the arrest, the officer will typically confiscate your driver's license and issue a 10-day temporary driving permit if you are eligible. The length of the suspension depends on the circumstances: a first-time unlawful breath or blood alcohol level of 0.08 or higher generally results in a six-month suspension, while refusing to submit to a lawful breath, blood, or urine test can result in a 12-month suspension for a first refusal and an 18-month suspension for subsequent refusals. You have only 10 days from the date of your arrest to request a DHSMV review hearing to challenge the suspension, making it critical to speak with an experienced Florida DUI defense attorney as soon as possible to protect your driving privileges.
Q: What happens if I refuse a breath test in Florida?
A: If you refuse a breath test after a lawful DUI arrest in Florida, you may face serious administrative and criminal consequences. Under Florida's implied consent law, refusing a breath test can result in a one-year driver's license suspension for a first refusal and an 18-month suspension for a second or subsequent refusal. Refusing to provide a lawful breath sample is also a crime in and of itself in Florida, meaning you'll likely face an additional criminal charge. Additionally, prosecutors are generally allowed to tell the jury that you refused the test and may argue that the refusal demonstrates a consciousness of guilt. However, refusing a breath test does not automatically result in a DUI conviction, as the State must still prove impairment through other evidence such as officer observations, field sobriety exercises, body camera footage, witness testimony, and driving behavior. Because potential defenses may exist, including challenges to the legality of the stop, arrest, or implied consent warnings, it is important to consult an experienced Florida DUI defense attorney as soon as possible.
Q: How do criminal traffic charges affect a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) in Florida?
A: Criminal traffic charges can have serious consequences for Florida CDL holders, often extending far beyond the penalties imposed in criminal court. Certain convictions (including DUI, reckless driving, leaving the scene of a crash, refusing a lawful alcohol test, and other "serious traffic violations") can result in temporary or permanent disqualification of your commercial driving privileges, even if the offense occurred while driving your personal vehicle. Two serious traffic violation convictions within three years can lead to a 60-day CDL disqualification, while three convictions can result in a 120-day disqualification. More serious offenses, such as DUI or leaving the scene, may trigger a one-year disqualification, and some repeat or felony-related offenses can permanently revoke your CDL. Because many of these penalties are triggered by a conviction rather than an arrest, it is important to consult an experienced Florida criminal traffic attorney before entering a plea to explore defenses and protect both your commercial driver's license and your livelihood.
Q: What happens if I violate probation in Florida?
A: If you are accused of violating probation in Florida, your probation officer may file an affidavit alleging a violation, which can lead to the issuance of a warrant, a warrantless arrest, or a notice to appear in court. At your first court appearance, you can either admit or deny the alleged violation. If you deny it, the court will hold a violation of probation hearing where the State must prove by the greater weight of the evidence that you committed a willful and substantial violation of your probation. If the judge finds that a violation occurred, the court may continue your probation, modify its conditions, or revoke it entirely. Revocation can result in a conviction if adjudication was previously withheld and may expose you to the maximum sentence available for the original offense. Because probation violation cases involve different procedures and a lower burden of proof than a criminal trial, it is important to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible to evaluate potential defenses and protect your rights.
Q: What is Florida's Stand Your Ground Law?
A: Florida's Stand Your Ground law allows individuals to use or threaten force in self-defense under certain circumstances without first retreating. If a person reasonably believes force is necessary to prevent imminent unlawful force, imminent death or great bodily harm, or the imminent commission of a forcible felony, Florida law may justify the use of force. Deadly force is permitted only in limited situations involving a reasonable fear of imminent death, great bodily harm, or certain violent felonies, while non-deadly force may also be used to defend yourself, another person, or, in some cases, your property. Importantly, once self-defense is raised, the State (not the defendant) must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the use of force was not legally justified. However, Stand Your Ground does not protect someone who was committing a forcible felony, was the initial aggressor (with limited exceptions), or unlawfully uses force against law enforcement. Because these cases often involve complex factual and legal issues, anyone facing criminal charges involving self-defense should consult an experienced Florida criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.
Q: How do I seal or expunge criminal records in Florida?
A: Florida law allows certain individuals to limit public access to their criminal records through either record sealing or record expungement, but eligibility depends on the outcome of the case and your prior criminal history. Generally, you may qualify for expungement if your case was dismissed, nolle prossed, resulted in a not guilty verdict, or was resolved through a qualifying diversion program, and you have never been adjudicated guilty of a criminal offense. You may qualify for "sealing" of records if you received a withhold of adjudication on the underlying offense. The process typically involves obtaining a Certificate of Eligibility from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), then filing a petition with the court requesting that your record be sealed or expunged. If granted, the court will order the appropriate agencies to seal or destroy the record in accordance with Florida law. Because the eligibility rules are strict and the process involves detailed paperwork and court procedures, consulting an experienced Florida criminal defense attorney can help determine whether you qualify and maximize your chances of successfully clearing your record.
Q: What is Hillsborough County's Misdemeanor Intervention Program (MIP)?
A: Hillsborough County's Misdemeanor Intervention Program (MIP) is a pretrial diversion program that gives certain individuals charged with eligible misdemeanor offenses an opportunity to avoid a criminal conviction. If accepted, participants typically complete conditions imposed by the State Attorney's Office (such as community service, counseling, restitution, educational courses, and a period of supervision) while remaining arrest-free. Successful completion of the program often results in the State Attorney's Office dismissing the charge by entering a nolle prosequi. Eligibility is determined on a case-by-case basis and depends on factors such as the nature of the offense, criminal history, the facts of the case, and the prosecutor's discretion. Because participation requires waiving speedy trial rights and complying with specific program requirements and fees, it is important to consult an experienced Tampa criminal defense attorney to determine whether MIP is the best option for your case and to maximize your chances of a favorable outcome.
Q: What is Hillsborough County's RIDR DUI Diversion Program?
A: Hillsborough County's Reducing Impaired Driving Recidivism (RIDR) Program is a diversion-style program available to certain first-time, non-aggravated DUI offenders that may allow participants to avoid a DUI conviction. If accepted and all pre-plea requirements are successfully completed (such as DUI School, a MADD Victim Impact Panel, community service, and any required alcohol or drug monitoring) the State Attorney's Office may agree to reduce the DUI charge to reckless driving with alcohol as a significant factor and withhold adjudication. Eligibility is limited and generally excludes cases involving aggravating factors such as crashes, minors in the vehicle, very high breath alcohol levels, prior DUI-related offenses, or certain criminal histories. Because participation requires waiving speedy trial rights and completing significant conditions before receiving the plea offer, it is important to consult an experienced Tampa DUI defense attorney to determine whether RIDR is the best strategy or whether challenging the DUI charge may produce a more favorable outcome.
Q: What is Hillsborough County's Domestic Violence Intervention Program (DVIP)?
A: Hillsborough County's Domestic Violence Intervention Program (DVIP) is a pretrial diversion program available to certain first-time defendants charged with eligible misdemeanor domestic violence offenses. If accepted, participants must complete conditions such as a Batterer's Intervention Program (BIP), counseling, community service, any recommended substance abuse treatment, compliance with no-contact orders, and other program requirements while remaining law-abiding. Upon successful completion, the State Attorney's Office will often dismiss the criminal charge by entering a nolle prosequi, allowing the defendant to avoid a domestic violence conviction and, in some cases, pursue sealing or expungement of the record later. Eligibility is determined on a case-by-case basis and depends on factors such as the defendant's criminal history, the severity of the allegations, whether injuries occurred, and the wishes of the alleged victim. Because DVIP is not appropriate in every case and may require waiving certain rights, it is important to consult an experienced Tampa domestic violence defense attorney before deciding whether diversion or fighting the charges is the better strategy.
Q: Should I speak to detectives or police during a criminal investigation in Florida?
A: In most situations, no. If detectives or law enforcement officers want to question you during a criminal investigation, it is generally in your best interest to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney before answering any questions. Even if you believe you are innocent or simply want to "tell your side of the story," your statements can be misunderstood, taken out of context, or used against you later in court. Under the Fifth Amendment, you have the right to remain silent and the right to have an attorney present during questioning, and invoking those rights cannot be used as evidence of guilt. Whether police contact you about a DUI, domestic violence, theft, drug offense, sex crime, or another investigation, you should politely decline to answer questions by stating that you wish to remain silent and speak with an attorney. Early legal representation can protect your constitutional rights, manage communications with law enforcement, and help avoid mistakes that could significantly impact your case.
Q: Can criminal charges in Florida be dropped?
A: Yes. Criminal charges in Florida can be dropped in several different ways, depending on the facts and legal issues involved. The most common occurs when the State Attorney's Office files a nolle prosequi, formally dismissing the prosecution because of insufficient evidence, witness credibility problems, constitutional issues, or other weaknesses in the case. Charges may also be dismissed after a defendant successfully completes a pretrial diversion program, such as those available for certain first-time offenders. In other situations, a judge may dismiss the case by granting a defense motion, such as a motion based on Florida's Stand Your Ground immunity law or a motion to dismiss under Florida Rule of Criminal Procedure 3.190(c)(4) when the undisputed facts do not establish a crime. Constitutional violations, lack of probable cause, speedy trial issues, and other procedural defects may also lead to dismissal in appropriate cases. Because every case is different, an experienced Florida criminal defense attorney can evaluate the evidence, identify potential defenses, and pursue every available opportunity to have the charges reduced or dismissed.