Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Spring Hill, FL

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Spring Hill, Florida is 352-754-6830.

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

  You can get a copy of a police report by sending an email to publicrecords@hernandosheriff.org or you can go to the Records Unit office at 18900 Cortez Blvd, Brooksville FL 34601. You may also call the Records Custodian, Lana Erickson, at (352) 797-3635.

• Can you challenge the legality of the search or seizure that led to your arrest in Spring Hill?

  Yes, you can challenge the legality of the search or seizure that led to your arrest in Spring Hill. This right is protected under The Fourth Amendment, which prohibits illegal searches and seizures by law enforcement officers. Evidence will not be admitted into court if obtained illegally.

• What is the statute of limitations for criminal offenses in Spring Hill?

  The statute of limitations for criminal charges in Spring Hill depends on the severity of the crime committed. There is no time limit for capital crimes, wherein you can be arrested even after 40 years from the date of the crime. Other lesser crimes, such as misdemeanors and other felonies, have a three-year limit. Additionally, for a felony of the first degree, prosecutors must file charges within four years.

• How much will it cost you to defend against criminal charges in Spring Hill?

  The cost to hire a criminal defense lawyer in Spring Hill will depend on the lawyer's experience and the complexity of the case. On average, you will have to prepare between $2,000 and $3,000 for first-degree misdemeanor charges. For felony charges, you should have between $3,500 and $10,000 to hire an experienced attorney.

• What can you do in Spring Hill to lessen the impact of criminal charges on your future?

  To minimize the impact of a criminal charge on your future, you must first retain the services of an experienced criminal defense attorney in Spring Hill. You should work with your attorney to dismiss the allegations quickly. Additionally, you must stay out of trouble throughout your trial to avoid further charges and impact on your case.

• Is marijuana possession a misdemeanor in Spring Hill?

  Yes, possession of marijuana less than 20 grams is considered a misdemeanor in Spring Hill. If you were arrested and caught with 20 grams to 25 pounds, you will be charged with a felony and can face prison time of up to five years plus fines. In addition, possession of between 25 pounds to less than 2,000 pounds of marijuana has a harsher penalty, which is 3 to 15 years in prison.

• 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.