State Attorney's Office 13th Judicial Circuit

In the intricate ecosystem of Florida's legal system, the State Attorney's Office plays a foundational and critical role. For residents of Hillsborough County, including Tampa, Temple Terrace, and Plant City, the State Attorney's Office for the 13th Judicial Circuit is the primary entity responsible for upholding the rule of law and ensuring public safety. This office, led by the elected State Attorney, acts as the chief prosecuting agency for all criminal violations of state law that occur within its jurisdiction. It is a vital component of the criminal justice system, working tirelessly to prosecute offenders, protect victims, and contribute to a safer community.

The mission of the State Attorney's Office extends far beyond simply filing charges. It encompasses a broad range of duties, from the initial investigation and review of cases presented by law enforcement to robust courtroom litigation. With a team of dedicated Assistant State Attorneys, investigators, victim advocates, and support staff, the office strives to make fair and consistent decisions in applying state criminal laws. While their primary focus is prosecution, they also engage actively with community organizations to prevent crime, reduce recidivism, and build trust with the citizens they serve. For anyone interested in how justice is pursued and maintained in their local area, understanding the function of this office is key.

The main office of the State Attorney's Office for the 13th Judicial Circuit is conveniently located in downtown Tampa at 419 N Pierce St, Tampa, FL 33602, USA. This central location places the office in close proximity to the Hillsborough County courthouses, making it easily accessible for law enforcement, victims, witnesses, and other stakeholders involved in criminal proceedings. Its downtown presence ensures it is a well-known and central point for legal matters within the county.

The 13th Judicial Circuit encompasses the entirety of Hillsborough County, which includes the cities of Tampa, Temple Terrace, and Plant City. This means that any criminal violation of state law occurring within these geographical boundaries falls under the purview of this specific State Attorney's Office. While there are 20 judicial circuits across Florida, each with its own State Attorney, the 13th Judicial Circuit's focus on Hillsborough County ensures a localized and dedicated approach to justice for its 1.5 million residents. The accessibility of their main office, combined with their defined geographical jurisdiction, makes them the go-to authority for criminal prosecutions in this populous Florida county.

The State Attorney's Office for the 13th Judicial Circuit provides a wide array of services, primarily centered around the prosecution of criminal offenses and the support of crime victims. Their core responsibilities are constitutionally mandated and codified by Florida Statutes.

• Prosecution of Criminal Violations: This is the primary duty, involving the prosecution of all criminal violations of state law occurring within Hillsborough County. This includes:
  • Felonies (more serious crimes with potential for longer imprisonment)
  • Misdemeanors (less serious crimes with potential for up to one year in jail)
  • Criminal Traffic Offenses (including DUI and reckless driving)
  • Acts of Juvenile Delinquency
  • Certain violations of county or municipal ordinances
• Review of Charges and Complaints: The office reviews charges and complaints presented by law enforcement to determine whether they warrant prosecution and trial, ensuring there's probable cause and sufficient evidence.
• Victim/Witness Services: A critical component of their mission, this program provides extensive support to victims and witnesses of crime, including:
  • Information on case status
  • Emotional support and counseling referrals
  • Assistance in filing for Crime Victim Compensation
  • Courtroom orientation and accompaniment
  • Help with preparing Victim Impact Statements
  • Referrals to community agencies for additional support
  • Assistance with issues associated with the crime and court process (e.g., advocating with employers, creditors)
  • Specialized services for victims of domestic violence, including safety planning and injunction assistance
  • Legal Advice to Law Enforcement: The State Attorney's Office provides legal advice to all law enforcement agencies within the 13th Circuit on criminal matters and works with them to provide in-service training.
  • Post-Conviction Processes: Assisting victims with information on post-conviction procedures and their rights regarding offender release decisions.
  • Worthless Check Unit: Provides assistance to victims of worthless checks and manages a diversion program aimed at collecting restitution.
  • Public Records Requests: Adhering to Florida Public Records Law, the office processes requests for public records, promoting transparency.
  • Community Engagement: Actively involved in various community organizations dedicated to preventing crime, reducing recidivism, and fostering trust with citizens.
  • Civil Matters: While primarily focused on criminal prosecution, the State Attorney also represents the State in various civil matters and litigation, such as bond validations and contraband forfeiture.
  Features / Highlights

  The State Attorney's Office for the 13th Judicial Circuit stands out due to its comprehensive role and commitment to justice within Hillsborough County:

  • Chief Prosecuting Authority: This office is the highest prosecuting authority for state criminal violations within Hillsborough County, meaning they handle all felony and misdemeanor cases, along with juvenile and criminal traffic offenses.
  • Elected Leadership: The State Attorney is an elected official, ensuring accountability to the citizens of the circuit and reflecting the community's priorities in criminal justice. The current State Attorney, Susan S. Lopez, leads a substantial team.
  • Dedicated Public Servants: The office comprises a large team of dedicated public servants, including numerous Assistant State Attorneys, victim advocates, investigators, and support staff, all working collectively to fulfill their mission.
  • Victim-Centered Approach: A significant highlight is their robust Victim/Witness Program, which provides crucial support and advocacy for those impacted by crime, ensuring victims' rights are protected throughout the judicial process. This includes emotional support, information, and practical assistance.
  • Community Involvement and Crime Prevention: Beyond prosecution, the office actively engages in the community through various organizations dedicated to preventing crime and reducing recidivism, demonstrating a proactive approach to public safety.
  • Ensuring Fairness and Due Process: While prosecuting vigorously, the office also has a responsibility to ensure justice is accomplished in all matters and to guard the rights of all individuals who interact with the criminal justice system. They must seek probable cause and determine if a case can be proven beyond a reasonable doubt before prosecution.
  • Data Transparency: The office participates in statewide initiatives for criminal justice data transparency, contributing to a database that facilitates comparable and uniform criminal justice data across Florida.
  Promotions or Special Offers

  As a governmental agency primarily responsible for the prosecution of criminal offenses, the State Attorney's Office does not offer "promotions" or "special offers" in the commercial sense. Their service is mandated by the state constitution and statutes.

  However, their core "offer" to the public is their unwavering commitment to public safety, the zealous advocacy for victims' rights, and the fair administration of justice. The services they provide, such as victim/witness support, comprehensive case review, and community engagement for crime prevention, are all integral parts of their public service mandate. For victims of crime, the services of their Victim/Witness Program, including emotional support, assistance with compensation claims, and court accompaniment, are invaluable resources provided without direct charge, representing a critical public service. Their dedication to transparency through public records access also serves as a significant benefit to the community.

  Contact Information

  For inquiries related to criminal cases, victim services, or other matters within the scope of the State Attorney's Office for the 13th Judicial Circuit in Hillsborough County, you can use the following contact details:

  • Address: 419 N Pierce St, Tampa, FL 33602, USA
  • Phone: (813) 272-5400
  • Mobile Phone: +1 813-272-5400 (This is often the same main line, indicating general office contact.)

  For specific public records inquiries, they provide a dedicated email: publicrecords@sao13th.com and a phone number: (813) 274-1938. For news/media inquiries, contact Erin.Maloney@sao13th.com. It is important to remember that under Florida law, emails sent to the State Attorney's office are public records. If you prefer not to have your email address released in response to a public records request, contact the office by phone or in writing.

  Conclusion: Why the State Attorney's Office is Suitable for Locals

  For residents of Hillsborough County, Florida, the State Attorney's Office for the 13th Judicial Circuit is not merely a legal entity; it is a cornerstone of their community's safety and justice system. Its fundamental suitability for locals lies in its direct and unwavering responsibility for prosecuting criminal offenses that impact their daily lives. By prosecuting violations of state law, the office works to hold offenders accountable, deter future crime, and maintain the public order essential for a thriving community.

  Moreover, the robust Victim/Witness Program is a vital resource for locals affected by crime. It provides essential support, guidance, and advocacy, ensuring that victims' voices are heard and their rights are protected throughout what can be an incredibly difficult and confusing process. The office's proactive involvement in community organizations dedicated to crime prevention also demonstrates a commitment that goes beyond simple prosecution, actively working to improve the quality of life and safety within Hillsborough County. For any local citizen concerned about crime, seeking justice for a wrong, or navigating the complexities of the criminal legal system, the State Attorney's Office stands as an indispensable and deeply ingrained part of their local government, dedicated to serving and protecting the community.