FAQ

The firm can provide quality legal representation in a number of cases. We have dealt with charges ranging from drug crimes to manslaughter and everything in between. For an aggressive defense that you can trust to handle your case with the utmost care, then get in touch with our firm today by calling us or filling out one of our case evaluation forms.

Many people come to Fort Lauderdale on vacation, so if you were visiting the area when you were charged with a criminal offense, you can still get help from a Ft. Lauderdale criminal lawyer. Each one of these cases are unique, so for the best answer to your questions regarding your arrest while on vacation then contact a Ft. Lauderdale criminal defense attorney from our firm as soon as possible.

When convicted of a crime, these charges will make a mark on your permanent record. This may make it difficult for you to do normal things in the future such as gain employment or buy a home. If you are interested in having your charges taken off of your record, you may be able to get your criminal record sealed or get an expungement. These are two separate procedures, but they both do a similar thing. If your criminal record is "sealed" then it is not available to the public, but only government entities. If your criminal record has undergone expungement, it makes it more difficult to view your criminal record.

In the event that you are charged with a crime but do not show up for your court hearing, you will be issued a bench warrant. This means that the moment you are found by law enforcement, they have the right to place you under arrest immediately and without the possibility of bail. Often what happens is that people charged with crimes do not realize that there is a bench warrant in their name at the time of their second arrest.

Initially, you will be taken to the police station for “booking.” You will be advised what the charges against you are, although they may be changed by the time you attend your formal hearing regarding the charges. You may be required to give your personal belongings for safekeeping to an officer. You will likely be fingerprinted and your picture taken during the booking process. You may be asked to be in a “line-up” for identification by a victim of the crime. After the booking process is completed, you will be given the opportunity to call an attorney, a bail bondsman and family.

Everyone has the right to represent themselves in court. Although there is no legal requirement to have representation when charged with a crime, you place yourself at significant risk of being convicted and punished. Criminal law is complex and when there is a lot riding on the line - like your future - you should place your trust in experienced and proven professionals.

This is absolutely critical. Lawyers defend you by upholding your legal rights and being your voice in court. That is why facing criminal charges without a skilled criminal defense lawyer can leave you at a severe disadvantage.

Law enforcement officers do have the right to detain individuals for a certain amount of time and under certain circumstances. However, if you are to be moved to another location, the law requires that you must be placed under arrest - unless you make the decision to go willingly. If you are detained in connection to an investigation of a crime, we advise you to contact an attorney.

The most important thing to remember is that you do not have to give information to law enforcement or investigators without an attorney representing you. If you choose to speak to law enforcement, everything that you tell them can be used against you later in court. After being arrested, individuals are often upset and confused, and may make the mistake of talking extensively with police officers which may cause them legal trouble in the future.