Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Largo

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Largo, Florida?

  The non-emergency police number of Largo in Florida is (727) 587-6730.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Largo, Florida?

  You may obtain a copy of the your Largo police report by contacting the Largo police department records division at (727)587-6717. You may also visiting the police department in person or sending them an email to file a request.

• Do you have the right to refuse a breath test in Largo?

  In Florida where Largo is located, a person who has accepted the privilege of operating a motor vehicle within the state, do not have the right to object to a breath test. If someone refuses to take the test, their driving privileges may be suspended for a year on the first refusal and 18 months on future refusals. There may also be legal repercussions.

• Is there a defense available if you refuse or fail a breathalyzer test in Largo?

  Yes, there is a defense available if you refuse or fail a breathalyzer test in Largo. In addition to technological arguments, there are rational justifications for not taking the test. There are defenses relating to breathalyzer devices and processes as well, if you fail the test. However, in order to successfully defend your case, it is advised that you get in touch with a qualified criminal lawyer.

• What period of time do points remain on a driver's record in Largo?

  In Florida, where Largo is, driver's license points for traffic violations remain on the driver's record for three years or 36 months. However, any additional violations resulting in points add to any points a driver already has on their record. Each violation has a corresponding number of points assigned to it. If a driver accumulates 12 points within 12 months, their license will be suspended for 30 days. If a driver accumulates 24 points within 36 months, their license will be suspended for one year.

• What are the special rules on driver's license points for minors in Lagro?

  In Largo, Florida, young drivers under the age of eighteen have a point system. The points remain the same, but if they accumulate more than six points in a year, their license is immediately suspended for a year. They are only permitted to drive for work-related purposes during the daytime limit. Work and education are business-related activities.

• How can you avoid accumulating points on my driving record in Largo?

  To avoid accumulating points on your driving record after receiving a traffic ticket, you have a few options. First, within 30 days of receiving the ticket, you can respond to the court clerk in the county where you received the ticket and pay the ticket while also pledging to take a driver's improvement course. This will allow you to avoid accumulating points on your record. The course can be taken once every 12 months or five times in your lifetime, and you will need to pay an election fee to the court clerk if you choose this option.

• What does a criminal defense lawyer do?

  Criminal defense attorneys provide help to those facing misdemeanor or felony criminal charges. The attorney will research the circumstances surrounding the charge and investigate the case on behalf of the client. This may involve talking to police, interviewing witnesses, determining a plea, and assessing possible sentences. With this information, the defense attorney can negotiate plea deals or navigate a court case on behalf of the client. In some cases, the attorney may get a case dismissed entirely, a reduction in bail or jail time, or probation or community service instead of prison.

• How do I know if I need a criminal attorney?

  Any criminal charge that could result in a prison sentence requires the help of a criminal defense lawyer. This applies to both misdemeanor and felony charges, including:

  Misdemeanors

  • Petty theft
  • Public intoxication
  • Simple assault
  • Disorderly conduct
  • Vandalism
  • Reckless driving

  Felonies

  • Murder
  • Rape
  • Kidnapping
  • Aggravated assault
  • Specific types of fraud
  • Possession of certain types of drugs

• What steps should I take after being charged with a crime?

  The first thing to do after being charged with a crime is to contact a criminal defense attorney. It is best to hire a defense attorney as soon as possible after being released from arrest, and before an arraignment takes place. The attorney will explain charges in detail, and possible consequences, to help you decide whether a plea deal or a jury trial is the best option. Most attorneys offer free consultations to discuss the circumstances of a criminal case and how they're able to assist. Speaking with a number of defense attorneys before hiring one can increase the likelihood of finding the right fit, and getting the best defense possible.

• What if I can’t afford a criminal defense lawyer?

  All Americans are afforded the right to hire an attorney to act as a defense in a legal case. However, not everyone can afford one. If an attorney isn’t in a defendant’s budget, and the defendant’s income meets designated state or local thresholds, the court system will provide a public defender. This attorney usually works on cases pro bono or without any fees paid by the defendant. Many public defenders have a high caseload, which can limit the amount of time they are able to devote to each case. In most situations, hiring a dedicated criminal defense lawyer ensures the best outcome. This is particularly true in more serious felony cases that can result in a significant prison sentence without the involvement of a skilled, experienced defense attorney.

• Why hire a criminal defense attorney?

  Working with a criminal defense attorney is the best way to minimize the ramifications of committing or being accused of a crime. Criminal attorneys thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding a case to prove innocence or inspire reasonable doubt in a jury. Criminal defense lawyers also are better prepared to negotiate with the prosecutors. Due to the high cost and logistics involved with taking a case to trial, many prosecutors are willing to reduce sentences in exchange for avoiding a jury trial. An experienced criminal attorney understands what would be a reasonable deal for a specific criminal charge, and will negotiate it on behalf of the defendant.

• Are legal fees for criminal defense tax deductible?

  Whether legal fees from a criminal case can be deducted on a tax return depends on the circumstances. If criminal charges pertain to activities related to a trade or business, attorney fees can be deducted on a business tax return, as they are considered an expense associated with the normal course of business. However, personal legal fees cannot be deducted.