Common Criminal Defense FAQs

The answer is not always yes. There are some things to consider. First, will the resolution of this case affect your life? Will your job, family, license, or reputation be negatively impacted by an arrest? Second, are you comfortable handling this yourself? If you’re concerned with the impact of an arrest on your life and you aren’t comfortable handling the case by yourself, schedule a free, confidential consultation to see if we are the right firm for you.

It can be difficult finding the right attorney for your criminal case. You may be reluctant to talk to friends about the charges and don’t want to rely on questionable information online. The top-rated sites that smart consumers use are avvo.com and lawyers.com. Why would we send you to independent sites? Throughout our representation, we want to ensure you are fully informed, starting right at the beginning. So take a look at what our prior clients and other attorneys say about us, and then call us for a free consultation.

If you are concerned with the effect of an arrest on your career or reputation, you should sit down with a lawyer as soon as possible. Early intervention can be key to a resolution that has minimal shock. Dismissal of a case before it is filed can only occur with early representation. We seek immediate solutions to put you in the best position for the future.

It may be possible to get a drug sale charge lowered and dismissed by hiring an attorney and acting quickly after your arrest. If you are a first-time offender, you may be eligible for a diversion or Pre-Trial Intervention Program. Completion of one of these programs will result in the case being dismissed. A qualified attorney can also examine the discovery in your case to determine if there are any grounds for a Motion to have the Court dismiss your case. As a first-time offender with no priors, it's essential that the case be resolved without a conviction. A conviction on a drug-related charge will result in a suspended driver’s license for two years. However, there are many options we can explore for resolving your case without this penalty. Please give us a call today to discuss your case.

Yes, police can attempt to forfeit your vehicle if there is a nexus or connection between the use of the vehicle and possession of the illegal substance. If your car or cash has been seized by police related to a drug-related offense, contact us immediately. Once you are put on Notice of the seizure, there are limited time restrictions, and you must act immediately to protect your assets. We will request an Adverse Preliminary Hearing on your behalf and begin work immediately to get your property back. Forfeiture is a harsh remedy not favored by the Courts. Even though the police have taken your property, you may be entitled to relief. Contact us immediately upon receipt of any Notice of Seizure or Forfeiture.

Restitution in a criminal case doesn’t preclude civil recovery. Any amount ordered as restitution in a criminal case can be set off against any judgment in a civil case, but it doesn’t preclude you from being sued civilly. In fact, if restitution is ordered in a criminal case, you will most likely be precluded from denying liability in the civil matter. If you’re facing a criminal charge and a related civil lawsuit, it is essential that you consult with an attorney who can help you craft a resolution of the criminal case in a fashion that best preserves your possible defenses in the civil suit. Otherwise, resolving the criminal case may hamper your ability to defend yourself in a civil lawsuit.

Some counties now offer Pre-Trial Intervention or diversion programs for a first-time DUI offense. Currently, Pinellas offers the D.R.O.P., and Hillsboro has the R.I.D.R. program. These are newer programs but can have an impactful effect on your case.