421 Magnolia Avenue. This is normally reserved for misdemeanor cases. In the federal criminal court system and some states and counties, representation is through a publicly-funded public defender office. Fort Myers, FL 33901. For example, the decision to prosecute is a matter that rests wholly with the Office of the State Attorney. Free Consultation Criminal and DUI. On January 21, 2021, Gov. Understanding the worst and best case scenarios as compared to the provability of your case is critical to the decision-making process.
Richard Tendler Esq. A criminal defense attorney with fluency in multiple languages, trial experience, and/or dual practice areas (such as immigration) may also merit a higher rate. Driving an unregistered vehicle may not seem like a big deal, but it can lead to surprisingly significant charges and sentences in Florida. A court appoints a Public Defender attorney if you cannot afford a private attorney. The worst case scenario differs from case to case depending on the maximum potential sentence for each charge. The Palm Beach County Public Defender ensures the right to legal may contact the Public Defender for questions about: If the judge deems appropriate, he or she may order S. O. R. (Supervised Release), which involves a defendant reporting to Pre-Trial Services weekly and abiding by other behavioral and geographic restrictions. 2071 Ringling Boulevard.
The penalties for robbery — theft involving the use or threat of force — are even more severe. Understanding the nuances in a high-pressure courtroom requires practice that can only come from direct experience and participation in the South Florida criminal justice system. At the federal level, cases are prosecuted by an Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA). Each State Attorney is elected to a four-year term. Florida Criminal Law Lawyer with 36 years of experience. It is important that you fill out the Affidavit of Insolvency completely and honestly. Packets will be delivered within one business day of receipt of payment. Our community means the most to us here at Casanova Law, a criminal defense law firm in Lake Worth, Florida. After suspending Andrew Warren, Governor Ron DeSantis named The Honorable Susan S. Lopez (a sitting judge) to that position. In general, felony charges will be priced higher than misdemeanor offenses. The state's approach to drug crimes is beginning to shift, so it's important to work with a West Palm Beach criminal defense lawyer who understands current regulations. Or, you may secure a dismissal or "Nolle Prosse" on your case. For now, pleadings coming out of that office refer to "Office of Susan S. Lopez, State Attorney 13th Judicial Circuit. Roger P. Foley is a Personal Injury and Criminal Defense attorney.
Meltzer & Bell, P. A. Ashley Moody, a Republican, is the current attorney general who took office on January 8, 2019. County Courthouse Annex, 5th Floor. To schedule an appointment with our Navigator, please call 561-355-7048. Why You Should Hire a Florida Criminal Defense Attorney.
Special Victims Unit. Researching Attorney Discipline. Your attorney must also be "effective" or competent. If your case does go to trial, having a solid defense strategy put together by a criminal defense law firm is critical. The Thirteenth Judicial Circuit serves the 1. The actions of an acting state attorney "shall be in all respects as valid as a regularly appointed state attorney. " No matter how minor or severe, they can negatively impact your employment, family, reputation and immigration status. Panama City, Florida 32401. Do you trust the attorney? 27, Florida Statutes. At First Appearance, the presiding judge will review the facts alleged in the police officer's Probable Cause Affidavit, determine whether the officer really had probable cause to make an arrest, and order a bond amount. In each judicial circuit, the State Attorney acts in a semi-judicial role by leading a staff of attorneys tasked with applying the state criminal laws fairly and consistently. Matthew Alan Goldberger.
A criminal charge has the potential to affect your life and liberty. Ultimately, after investigating your case thoroughly, negotiating the plea offer, and exploring all available options for your case, you will have to decide whether to resolve your case or go to trial. The Sixteenth Judicial Circuit has three locations – the Freeman Justice Center located in Key West, the Marathon Branch Courthouse located in Marathon, and the Plantation Key Government Center in Tavernier. If these skills are not verified, major penalties may follow. License charges include driving on a suspended license, driving without a license, and permitting a person without a license to drive. Ft. Lauderdale, Florida 33301. If you use the Florida Courts E-Filing Portal to file in a Circuit Civil (CA), County Civil (CC) or Small Claims (SC) case, you must designate if case-initiating documents contain confidential information. Hearings and trials. Because of this broad discretion, many were shocked when Florida Governor Ron DeSantis "suspended" the duly elected State Attorney Andrew Warren through the use of an "executive order" entered on August 4, 2022. If you trust your lawyer, you will feel completely at ease and assist the attorney with information toward your representation. Serving a population of over 300, 000 in the six counties of Leon, Franklin, Gadsden, Jefferson, Liberty, and Wakulla. Duval County Courthouse, Room 600.
A criminal defense attorney should fill you with confidence that she will handle everything in your case – from the investigation, evidence and witnesses to court proceedings, filings and more. As a pro-law-enforcement candidate, Mike Perotti was a former Assistant State Attorney in Hillsborough County. If you are in jail, an Affidavit of Insolvency will be provided to you before your Initial Appearance. The United States has one (1) Attorney General, and ninety-three (93) U. S. Attorney offices located throughout the United States, Guam, U. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, and the Northern Mariana Islands. A failure to appear in court will result in a capias (bench warrant). It may be that a better plea offer is obtained with an early resolution; or, a better offer may arise from the threat of trial. In 2016 and 2020, State Attorney Andrew H. Warren was duly elected by the votes in Hillsborough County, FL. What happens when a defendant challenges the authority of a prosecutor to handle a case, rather than the jurisdiction of a prosecutor to bring a case? Lawrence Michael Meltzer. Tallahassee, Florida 32399-2550. These include misdemeanors for minor offenses, as well as felonies, which are more severe and may carry significant penalties. You may also have Motion Hearings if you have filed a Motion to Dismiss, Motion to Suppress Evidence, or any other pre-trial motion regarding legal issues in your case. The U. S. Constitution guarantees individuals the right to have an attorney, regardless of financial means. View your court case online and purchase certified copies of documents.