What’s next?

The legal system can be complex and confusing. We want our clients to feel like they understand and are being included every step of the way. Below you can find out generally what the next steps of the process will entail.

The initial consultation

The first step is to set up your free consultation with one of our attorneys. Most of the time these are done by phone, but we can also meet via video chat or in person by appointment.

During this conversation, we will try to get an idea from you about what happened that led to these charges, an overview of where your case is at in the process, what your goals and needs are from an attorney, and lay out what the cost would be if you chose to hire us.

The agreement

If you decide to hire us, the next step will be to sign the contract and pay the fee agreement. We use a system that will send you these things electronically so you can sign it from your phone or a computer and pay with a credit card securely online.

In most cases we prefer the full price to be paid upfront so we can fully represent you right away. We do not want to have to continue your case and give up rights like your right to a speedy trial simply to wait for money to be paid. However, we understand that is not always possible and we can discuss payment plans at the initial consultation. Either way, that will be laid out in the contract that we both sign.

Working on your case

This step is where things will begin to vary depending on your unique situation. Some people will have the goal of getting their charged drop or going to trial while others will be hoping to negotiate a plea where they will not become a convicted felon.

This is why early on we will discuss what your goals are so as soon as we are hired to represent you, we can begin to work zealously to get you the best result possible for your particular situation.

Regardless of what your ultimate goal is, in every case, we will ensure that we get the discovery in your case and review it to ensure that your rights are being protected. We will share that with you through our case management system so you will have access to it as well.

Some cases may require depositions, speaking with possible defense witnesses, medical records or body camera footage review while others we will be able to resolve very quickly with a plea agreement or dismissal.

Motions and Hearings

After reviewing the discovery from the State and after speaking with you and any possible witnesses you may have, we may determine there are motions that could be filed, like a motion to suppress, a Stand Your Ground (self-defense) immunity motion, or a motion to dismiss If we think there is a possibility of that, we will discuss that with you and if we choose to proceed with that, we will go to a hearing.

Depending on the outcome of that hearing, we will determine what the next steps are. If we win, usually your case is dismissed. If we lose, there are still options for you and we will discuss all of those thoroughly.

How does it end?

As discussed above, this will vary depending on your unique situation. In many cases, your case will end with a plea deal. In other cases, it will end with the State filing a Nolle Pros or No Bill, meaning they have dismissed the charges against you. And other times, it will end with a jury trial.

Every person charged with a crime in Florida has a right to a jury trial, if they so choose. As mentioned in other sections, in most cases, we do not charge any extra if you choose to exercise your right to go to a jury trial. We believe holding the State accountable is the best way to ensure justice for every one of us in this country and if you want to fight your charges, we will do everything in our power to fight for you.