Criminal Defense Lawyer in Sebastian, FL
If you’ve recently been charged with a crime, it’s important to speak to a criminal defense lawyer in Sebastian, FL promptly. A criminal conviction carries heavy penalties, so you should have someone knowledgeable and experienced on your side. A lawyer can provide you with a strong defense and protect your rights.
Questions You Should Ask a Lawyer
If you’re facing criminal charges, your next step is to schedule a consultation with a criminal lawyer to discuss your case. Here are some important questions to ask during the meeting.
Does your law firm focus on criminal defense cases? One of the first things you should find out is whether a lawyer focuses on criminal defense cases exclusively or handles other types of cases too. If the lawyer practices more than criminal defense, he or she might not have the specific experience you’re looking for. A lawyer who handles exclusively criminal cases will be more likely to provide you with a strong defense.
Do you have experience defending my charge? Not all criminal lawyers have the same type of experience. Some specialize in defending DUI cases while others focus on theft cases. It’s important to hire a criminal lawyer who has specific experience defending your charge. For example, if you’re facing a DUI charge, you’ll want to work with a lawyer who has extensive knowledge about chemical testing and field sobriety testing.
How many cases are you currently juggling? Although it’s important for a criminal defense lawyer in Sebastian, FL to be busy, you don’t want him or her to have a very caseload. If a potential lawyer is juggling too many cases, he or she might not be able to give your case the attention it deserves.
Do you have trial experience? Believe it or not, not every criminal lawyer has trial experience. While many criminal cases get settled out of court, there’s always a chance yours could go to trial. For example, if the prosecuting attorney won’t offer you a fair deal, it may be in your best interest to go to trial. As such, it’s critical to hire a criminal lawyer who has plenty of experience taking cases to trial. He or she should feel confident defending cases in front of a judge and jury.
If you have a criminal charge against you, schedule a consultation with a criminal defense lawyer in Sebastian, FL today. At Tuttle Larsen, P.A., our lawyers are ready to help you.
What does a criminal defense attorney do?
Because the criminal justice system is so complex, a different attorney or defense lawyer needs to be applied to the situation where somebody is going up against criminal charges. There are two different types of defense lawyers, court appointed lawyers who were paid by the government and private lawyers the defendant can pick and can pay privately. But that doesn’t answer the question of what a defense lawyer actually does.
It is not uncommon for somebody who has come up against criminal charges to wonder what their lawyers are actually going to do for them. This is especially true, if you’ve never had a criminal charge before. The justice system is very complex especially when criminal charges are involved, because there are many factors that your jury, your court, your judge and your lawyer has to consider when you are at trial. Having an experienced criminal defense attorney at your side is going to help you in the long run.
Criminal defense lawyers who are private or court-appointed are going to help you by researching the facts of your case, they are going to investigate the case against you, and they’re going to try to negotiate deals with the prosecutors and the court. By negotiating deals they may be able to reduce bail, they may be able to reduce charges or they may even be able to reduce the sentences that you might receive.
The number of factors involved in a criminal defense case can be anything from politically charged to the public pressure surrounding the case. In fact overcrowding and gels, overloading on court calendars, and much more can affect your case as well.
Your lawyer is going to examine the witnesses, they are going to help formulate a plea and analyze the prosecutor’s case looking for weaknesses and exploits in your defense. Your lawyer can even assess the potential of the sentence you may receive, if you received a search warrant or a seizure procedure, your lawyer is going to be able to look through that as well and ensure that everything was legally done.
Your defense lawyers are responsible for finding a loophole, anything to get you out of receiving the maximum sentence, even if that means proving that you are innocent.
Defense lawyers also provide personal services such as giving you the reality check that you may need, and this is important because knowing the reality of your case before you have gone to trial allows you time to make decisions. They can also help you to do with the frustrations or fears that may follow you as you go to the criminal justice system.
Six Myths About Criminal Defense Cases
Myth: You Have the Right to Make a Phone Call
Fact: You do have the right to remain silent. You do have the right to an attorney, and to have that attorney with you during any questioning. That’s it. There is no guaranteed right to a phone call. Some jurisdictions will allow you to have a phone call, and it’s often at the discretion of the arresting officer. It pays to be polite and cooperative — if you’re rude or combative, the officer has every right to deny you use of a phone.
Myth: You Have To Be Read Your Rights
Fact: You’re required to be read your rights before official questioning occurs. Prior to that, anything you say can and will be used against you in court. Therefore, it’s important that you know your rights to begin with, and avail yourself of your right to remain silent. Don’t answer any questions beyond your name, address, and phone number. It will be easier for your Tuttle Larsen, P.A. criminal defense lawyer in Sebastian, FL, to defend you if you haven’t accidentally incriminated yourself.
Myth: You Can’t Be Tried Twice for the Same Crime
Fact: There are cases where double jeopardy — being tried twice for the same crime — doesn’t apply. One example is if you’re being charged in both state and federal jurisdictions. Another is if you’re charged both with the crime and with conspiracy to commit the crime. Your criminal defense lawyer in Sebastian, FL can explain the finer points of double jeopardy if it applies to your case.
Myth: Your Victim is Pressing Charges
Fact: Your victim reported the crime. Your victim is a witness for the defense. The state is pressing charges. Crimes are considered to be offenses against society at large, so the prosecutor’s office weighs the pros and cons of pursuing criminal charges against you.
Myth: If You Plead Guilty, You Are Guilty
Fact: your criminal defense lawyer in Sebastian, FL, from Tuttle Larsen, P.A. may be able to arrange a plea bargain, where you plead guilty to lesser charges to avoid a long, drawn-out trial that could result in your conviction and greater penalties. However, your actual guilt or innocence may not factor into your decision on whether to accept the plea agreement.
Myth: Your Lawyer Is in Constant Contact With the Prosecutor’s Office
Fact: Your lawyer has to spend time researching case law, interviewing witnesses, compiling evidence, securing expert witnesses and drawing up motions in your case. She isn’t in constant contact with the prosecutor’s office because she needs time to secure your acquittal. That’s not to say there’s no communication; there is. It’s just not an everyday occurrence.
Criminal Defense Lawyers for DUIs
A DUI is more than just an expensive ticket – it can seriously affect your life for several years, which makes it all the more important to get in touch with a criminal defense lawyer in Sebastian, Florida.
When you’re pulled over and put in handcuffs for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, it can be pretty overwhelming. Your future flashes before your eyes, and you start to wonder what will happen next. Fortunately, the right attorney can keep you in the loop, and (more importantly) fight on your behalf.
But how does hiring a criminal defense lawyer in Sebastian, FL help you fight back against DUI charges? Read on to learn more about how a lawyer will be your best friend through your DUI case, and understand the legal challenges that you and your lawyer will have to fight through together.
What a Criminal Defense Lawyer Will do for You
When you contact a criminal defense lawyer, you’re taking the first step towards fighting your charges. Your attorney will walk you through what you can expect from your case, and by providing key information, your attorney will help you keep a level head as you deal with the initial shock of your DUI.
There are many different approaches your attorney might take when it comes to fighting your DUI. If you have a competent and experienced lawyer, you won’t have to do anything except provide all the information about your arrest. With this information in hand, your attorney can build up a solid defense.
One of the first steps your lawyer will take in yout defense is to look over the police report to determine whether or not the report contains any errors (if there are, it might mean your case gets thrown out completely) and they can also determine whether or not your initial traffic stop was warranted in the first place.
The punishment from a DUI goes beyond just hefty fines and potential jail time. If you have a DUI on your record, it can affect your ability to apply for loans, housing, and even jobs. Getting arrested is just the start of a very difficult couple of years, and while the financial impact of your ticket may seem excessive, it’s nothing compared to how much more money you’ll be paying for insurance every year.
Fortunately, these punishments aren’t set in stone. Another great benefit of contacting a criminal defense attorney for your DUI is the possibility of reduced charges. The right attorney can convince a court that you have a future worth saving, and with the right legal team on your side you can fight the charges and reduce the legal difficulties you might face later on down the line.
Contact Tuttle Larsen, P.A. Today
When you’ve been arrested for a DUI, it’s important to keep a level head and get in touch with a qualified attorney who cares as much about your case as you do. Don’t hesitate: Reach out to Tuttle Larsen, P.A. today, and see how a criminal defense lawyer in Sebastian, FL can help you save your future and get your life back on track.
5 Questions To Ask Your Criminal Defense Lawyer
When someone accuses you of a crime and law enforcement tries to charge you, it can turn your world upside down in a moment’s notice. If this happens to you, stop and think about the resources you have in front of you. In many Florida cases, having a professional criminal defense lawyer in Sebastian, FL, on your team can make a big difference in your outcome. Consider these questions to ask.
1. Have You Handled Cases Similar to Mine?
Although most lawyers have substantial academic experience behind them, that does not mean that each one has encountered a situation like yours. On the contrary, if your case is especially unique, there is a solid chance that you will need to really sift for experienced representation before deciding.
2. What Are Your Writing Skills Like?
It may not always be true but more often than not, good writers are good thinkers. The thing is, many lawyers dislike writing so much that they will hire paralegal professionals to handle it for them. For this reason, asking a potential criminal defense lawyer in Sebastian, FL, about his or her writing skills (and how often he or she actually does it) can be a smart way to gauge what kind of mind you are working with.
3. Who All Makes Up Your Legal Team?
Another way to get a look inside an attorney’s office and way of doing things is by asking about the legal team. Who does is consist of? Before giving your money to any type of legal representation, you have a right to know who you are paying. In addition, do not hesitate to ask about each team member’s qualifications.
4. Who Will Be Working on My Case?
Many large law firms have teams of numerous individuals. With that said, it is unlikely that all of them will be working on your case. Instead, most team-based lawyers pick one to four attorneys and/or paralegals to work together. Whether you think you are working one-on-one or with several representatives on a team, asking who will be working on your case can allow for more clarity.
5. Do You Have Real Reviews Available?
If everything checks out when you are meeting with a seemingly reputable criminal defense lawyer in Sebastian, FL, do not forget to ask about reviews. When you do, insist on “real reviews” because it is not uncommon for paid reviews to blur the truth on law firms. Doing some of your own research may pay off, too.
At the end of the day, finding yourself entangled in a criminal law mess is never a spot where anyone wants to be; however, an experienced attorney can help make things smoother.
What do Do After Getting Arrested
Getting arrested can be one of the most nerve-wracking experiences of your life. However, what you do and say afterward can have a big impact on your case. Here are several things you should do after getting arrested:
- Remain silent. One of the biggest mistakes you can make after getting arrested is saying too much. Even if the police ask you questions about your case, you don’t have to answer them. You have the right to remain silent. Tell the police that you don’t want to talk to them without a lawyer.
- Be polite. Although you don’t have to give the arresting officer information about your case, it’s still important to be polite. Even if you’re innocent of the crime you’re being accused of, cooperate with the police officer. If you argue or try to flee, it could make the situation worse.
- Hire a lawyer. If you are accused of committing a crime, it is critical to have an experienced criminal defense lawyer in Sebastian, FL on your side. Depending on the type of crime you are charged with, you may face heavy penalties, like prison time and fines. A skilled lawyer can build you a strong defense and protect your legal rights.
- Do not accept the first plea bargain. The prosecuting attorney may offer you a plea bargain soon after you have been charged with a crime. It might be tempting to accept the plea to get everything over with quickly. However, you should avoid accepting the first plea bargain because it likely won’t be favorable. Be patient and give your lawyer time to negotiate a better deal. If you can’t reach a favorable deal, it may be necessary to go to trial.
- Listen to your lawyer’s advice. Your criminal lawyer has your best interests in mind, so you should take his or her advice seriously. For instance, your lawyer may advise you against talking about the details of your case with family members and friends. Also, if you have any questions or concerns about your case, do not hesitate to get in touch with your lawyer.
- Make a good impression during court dates. If you are facing criminal charges, you will have to go to several court dates. Good impressions count, so be sure to dress appropriately and conduct yourself in a professional manner.
4 Things Not To Do When You’re Facing Criminal Charges
While it’s important that you know what to do after you are detained, arrested, or charged with a crime, it’s equally important to know what not to do. Here are 4 things you should not do after being arrested.
Make Any Sudden Moves
This is especially important during traffic stops. Don’t pull over and immediately reach over to your glove box for your registration and proof of insurance. For all the law enforcement officer knows, you could be reaching for a gun, and the situation could quickly escalate.
Instead, turn off your car, roll down your window, and place both hands in clear sight on the steering wheel. When the officer asks for your license, registration and proof of insurance, inform them of every action you are going to take.
Resist Arrest
Whatever law enforcement officers think you have done, do not attempt to resist arrest, either passively or aggressively. Resisting arrest is illegal and could add to any sentence that may be handed down in your case. A criminal defense lawyer in Sebastian, FL, could help you get these charges dealt down or dropped, but it’s better not to resist arrest in the first place.
Instead, cooperate with the officer. Give them your license, registration, and proof of insurance if you are pulled over. If you are being arrested, don’t fight back when the officer is putting handcuffs on you.
Talk to Anybody
Don’t talk about your arrest to anyone. Not your friends and family, not the police, and not anybody who might be in jail with you. You never know who’s going to say what to someone else that could get back to the police and hurt your case.
Instead, speak only with your criminal defense lawyer in Sebastian, FL, such as Tuttle Larsen, P.A. about what’s happened and where you are in the process. Trust only your lawyer. Anybody else could intentionally or inadvertently become a witness for the prosecution.
Try To Get Through the Process Without an Attorney
You need a criminal defense lawyer in Sebastian, FL, to help you get through the procedure of being arrested and prosecuted for a crime. It’s said that the person who tries to represent themself in court has a fool for a client. There are so many nuances of law that a layperson just doesn’t know.
Instead, choose a reputable attorney who has experience working within the criminal justice system. Hire an attorney from Tuttle Larsen, P.A. to be by your side through the entire process.
If you have a criminal charge against you, schedule a consultation with a criminal defense lawyer in Sebastian, FL today. At Tuttle Larsen, P.A., our lawyers are ready to help you.
Being arrested for a crime is no laughing matter. Criminal convictions can cause innumerable problems related to your professional life. If you are being accused of a crime in the State of Florida contact Tuttle Personal Injury Lawyers today to schedule a free consultation during which we can discuss the facts of your case. Call our office today to speak to a member of our legal team and learn more about the legal services we offer. We can set you up with an experienced criminal defense lawyer in Sebastian, Florida right away.
Why Should I Retain A Criminal Defense Lawyer?
Your liberty is at stake as well as your right to vote. If you are accused of a felony you risk losing fundamental rights and receiving a conviction that will remain a part of your record for the remainder of your life. The social, financial, and psychological consequences of any criminal conviction can be severe. You need to retain a criminal defense lawyer to defend your legal rights. You also do not want to be unjustly convicted and suffer the consequences that could have been avoided if you had hired legal counsel.
How Much Will It Cost Me To Hire A Criminal Defense Lawyer?
Prospective clients typically pay a fee to a criminal defense lawyer at the beginning of the legal representation. This fee covers all pre-trial legal work. If your criminal defense case proceeds to a jury trial or bench trial then the fee arrangement may change and you will have to pay another sum for representation at trial. However, approximately 95% of criminal cases are resolved through plea negotiations. You will likely enter a guilty plea, a not guilty plea, or a nolo contendere plea.
Hiring a criminal defense lawyer costs different amounts depending on the substantive issues involved in the case. A DUI case may only cost $500 to $1,000 for complete legal representation. DUI cases rarely go to trial. If you are accused of armed robbery, sexual assault, or other serious felonies the cost of legal representation may be higher.
Contact A Criminal Defense Lawyer Today To Schedule A Free Consultation
Contact Tuttle Personal Injury Lawyers today to schedule a free consultation. If you retain a criminal defense lawyer you will be more likely to avoid a conviction. You can also enter diversion programs. If you have a lawyer by your side you will have a better understanding of the charges filed against you by the state. Contact Tuttle Personal Injury Lawyers today to learn more about the legal services we offer. You can speak to a member of our legal team and begin learning about the cost of legal services.
Why Do You Need a Lawyer If You Are Innocent?
As mentioned, sometimes people go to jail when they have done nothing wrong. If you are charged with a serious crime, you need to enlist the assistance of a criminal defense lawyer before saying anything to authorities. This is important because anything that you say can be held against you in a court of law. Even if you feel that you have nothing to hide, you still may say something incriminating that can cause major issues. The prosecuting attorney will know what kind of leading questions to ask that a judge will not find favorable for you in court. This means that it is crucial to have someone on your side who will protect you and keep you safe.
Can a Lawyer Help Lessen Your Sentence?
If you did do something wrong, it is important to be open and honest with your criminal defense lawyer. He or she will not judge you, but needs to know all of the details surrounding your case so that they can help you move forward. Sometimes, the best defense was that you did not know what you were doing. For example, you may have not realized that an activity you were partaking in was illegal. The best defense is having an alibi and knowing that you did not do anything wrong, but all is not doomed if you did do something illegal. You can still get off without having a large punishment if you have a good defense lawyer on your side.
Contact Us Today
Reach out to our lawyers as soon as possible if you or someone you care about is charged with committing a crime. It is important to squash any issues before they become something big so that you do not have to face large legal issues. We can set up a consultation to speak with one of our lawyers about whatever problems you are having to see if it is in your best interest to have a lawyer on your side. Reach out today to learn more.