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ASAP Criminal defense attorney

Asked in Florida - over 3 years

Can a crimianl defense attorney represent a client that has a criminal charge outside jail? meaning the client is not in jail but has criminal charges?

Attorney Answers (4)

A. Russell Smith

A. Russell Smith

Jacksonville Criminal Defense Attorney

Licensed in FL

Answered over 3 years ago. To follow up on Ms. Ramirez' answer, a criminal defense attorney can often accomplish quite a bit for a client during the investigation, and before the client is charged with a crime.

The lawyer can prevent agencies from obtaining incriminating statements from the client by invoking the client's rights. In many cases, particularly where there is little or no physical evidence, police will not proceed with charges unless they obtain a confession or incriminating statement.

The lawyer can also provide exculpatory information to the investigating agency, and negotiate with the prosecutor to have the case dropped, for a diversionary disposition or for reduced charges.

In cases where the prosecutor decides to proceed with the case despite the efforts of defense counsel, your lawyer can often negotiate a lower bond, and arrange your surrender and release.
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Stephen Andrew Mosca

Stephen Andrew Mosca

Jacksonville Criminal Defense Attorney

Licensed in FL

Answered over 3 years ago. Yes, of course.
Mosca Law Firm
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Lauren Walter Berns Jr.

Lauren Walter Berns Jr.

St Petersburg Criminal Defense Attorney

Licensed in FL

Answered over 3 years ago. Absolutely, and this applies to public defenders and private attorneys. The one rub for PDs is that usually the Court wont appoint the PD until after you've been arrested. If you have no means to hire an attorney, call the PD's office and explain your situation. Depending on which attorney you get referred to, they MIGHT seek an appointment to your case pre-arrest. It's a stretch, but it's not completely impossible.

Of course, if you hire an attorney, then there is no question whatsoever that they can represent you, and probably impove the ultimate outcome of your case by pursuing the leads Mr. Smith outlined.
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Linda Friedman Ramirez

Linda Friedman Ramirez

Saint Petersburg Federal Crime Lawyer

Licensed in FL

Answered over 3 years ago. Yes. A criminal defense attorney can also represent an individual during an investigation prior to charges.
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