When your child is facing criminal charges, their future is too important to leave in the hands of just any attorney. Ben Stechschulte, a board-certified expert in criminal trial law, brings a unique edge to juvenile defense: he’s a former Hillsborough County prosecutor who knows the system inside and out. With nearly 15 years of experience practicing in the Tampa Bay area and over 60 jury trials to verdict, Ben has handled a wide range of criminal cases—from DUIs to drug and domestic violence charges—and understands exactly how prosecutors think and build their cases.
That insider knowledge, combined with his elite certification and reputation for ethical, aggressive advocacy, gives him the tools to anticipate the prosecution’s moves and craft a defense strategy that protects your child’s future. At Stechschulte Nell, your family gets more than legal representation—you get an advocate who helped shape the system and now uses that insight to fight for your child.
1. Insider Knowledge Of The System
A former juvenile prosecutor knows how the other side thinks. They’ve stood in the shoes of the person now trying to build a case against your child.
- They understand the strategies prosecutors use to pursue charges, push plea deals, or recommend transfer to adult court.
- They know the priorities of the State Attorney’s Office, which cases get escalated, and what factors influence decisions behind closed doors.
This insight can help anticipate arguments and tailor a defense strategy that proactively addresses the prosecution’s likely moves.
2. Familiarity With Judges And Court Staff
Juvenile court isn’t just about legal theory—it’s about relationships, discretion, and judgment. A former prosecutor often has:
- Working relationships with the judges, probation officers, and Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) staff.
- An understanding of how each judge views specific charges or rehabilitation plans.
- Credibility that comes from years of being on the other side of the courtroom.
This familiarity allows them to position your child’s case in the most favorable light with the people making decisions that affect their future.
3. Strategic Advocacy For Diversion Or Dismissal
Former prosecutors know which cases are more likely to qualify for:
- Diversion programs: WALKER PLANS OR REHABLILTION PLANS (where charges are dropped after successful completion)
- Civil citations (instead of formal charges for first-time offenses)
- Informal adjustments (agreements that avoid court involvement)
They know how to present a child’s background, school record, and family support in a way that resonates with prosecutors and judges—because they used to be on the receiving end of those arguments.
4. Experience With Juvenile Transfer Hearings
In serious cases, prosecutors may try to transfer a juvenile to adult court (a process called “direct file”). A former prosecutor understands:
- What factors the State uses to justify a transfer
- How to argue effectively to keep the case in juvenile court
- The long-term consequences of an adult charge for a child
Stopping a transfer to adult court can preserve your child’s access to rehabilitative services instead of exposing them to the adult prison system.
5. Balanced Perspective And Negotiation Skills
Having prosecuted cases, these attorneys know:
- When the State’s case is weak—and how to exploit those weaknesses
- When a plea bargain might be a strategic move
- How to frame rehabilitation and second chances in a way the prosecution respects
They can negotiate from a position of authority and understanding, often achieving better results for their clients than lawyers without that background.
Final Thought: Juvenile Court Is Unique—You Need Someone Who Knows It Inside and Out
Juvenile law in Florida isn’t just a smaller version of adult court. It has its own rules, goals, and players. Our Tampa, FL criminal defense lawyer, who once served as a juvenile prosecutor, brings a level of insight, strategy, and credibility that can significantly improve your child’s chances of a better outcome.
If your child has been charged with a crime, don’t leave their future to chance. Contact our office today for a consultation with a defense attorney who knows the juvenile system inside and out—because they helped build it.
