Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Davie, FL

FAQs

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

  The local police station in Davie, Florida maintains a non-emergency hotline that can be reached at 954-693-8200.

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

  You can call the Records Division of the Davie Police Department to confirm the incident report's availability. If so, you can pick it up in person in the department's office at 6591 Orange Drive, Town of Davie, FL 33314, email it to you, or request it through email. If you prefer to acquire a copy of the report by mail, please send the appropriate fee and a self-addressed, stamped envelope to the above address.

• How severe is the punishment for the crime of animal cruelty in Davie, Florida?

  Animal cruelty is a first-degree misdemeanor in Davie, Florida, whereas aggravated animal cruelty is a third-degree felony. Depriving animals of basic needs is a widespread animal cruelty misdemeanor. This violation carries a maximum punishment of $5,000 and a prison sentence of one year. In contrast, aggravated animal cruelty involves torturing or killing an animal, which is punishable by imprisonment for five years, a fine of $10,000, and mandatory counseling or an anger management program participation.

• What can probable evidence be used in domestic violence criminal cases in Davie, Florida?

  Victim statements are the most frequently cited evidence in domestic violence cases in Davie, Florida. Lawsuits are strengthened by the introduction of collateral evidence, such as phone records, documentation of injuries sustained by the victim, witness testimonies, text messages, and surveillance videotapes, all of which are admissible in court if specific standards are met.

• Can you be prosecuted in Davie, Florida, criminal court for possessing a drug without a prescription?

  Yes. Possessing an unprescribed restricted narcotic is a third-degree felony punishable by up to five years in jail, a $5,000 fine, and a permanent record of a felony conviction. A controlled substance can only be legally possessed if it was obtained from a practitioner authorized to issue prescriptions or otherwise operating in the scope of their professional duties. The law also permits that if the patient has allowed another individual to possess the medication.

• Can a juvenile offender facing a criminal charge go to prison in Davie, Florida?

  Yes. Minors as young as 14 or 15 in Davie, Florida, can be sentenced to prison on serious criminal charges. Several types of felony offenses that will result in a juvenile's charges being filed in adult court leading to imprisonment may involve robbery, grand theft auto, possession of an illegal firearm on school grounds, and aggravated battery.

• Why should you not resist the police if you are arrested for a crime in Davie, Florida?

  In Davie, Florida, a person could face legal consequences if they resist arrest by sitting down, standing up, keeping their hands visible, or fighting with the police. An individual can face up to a year in jail and a $1,000 fine for resisting an arrest without violence. But, violently resisting an arrest is a third-degree crime punishable by up to five years in prison and five years of probation in addition to a fine of up to $5,000.

• 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.