Possible Solutions for Your Legal Problem
Resolving Your St. Petersburg / Clearwater Criminal Charge
We Have Solutions...
We are attorneys who can provide you with an honest and accurate analysis of your case. You should not rely solely on the advice of friends and relatives. An experienced St. Petersburg / Clearwater lawyer can educate you as to the various options that might be available in your case.
We have the ideas, methods, and know-how that may result in a favorable solution to your current problem. We also recognize that you're going through one of the most difficult times of your life. For that reason, our staff is dedicated to making you feel as comfortable as possible and giving you the personal attention that you deserve.
You may be nervous and anxious about your pending involvement in the Pinellas County criminal justice system. If you are looking for some immediate answers, this page provides a number of options that we are prepared to discuss with you. You are encouraged to schedule a free consultation to learn how the individual facts and circumstances of your case can play a major role in deciding which of the following remedies may be best for you:
Prompt Intervention With The Prosecutor - Getting the Charge Dropped
Simply because you have been arrested, does not mean that the prosecutor has to file a formal charge against you. At times, early intervention by your attorney in providing the prosecutor with your side of the story, or the names of your witnesses, can be effective. This "pre-filing" action could make a difference in his decision whether to file a formal charge, file a lesser offense, or decline to prosecute you at all. However, pursuing this option requires quick action. Often, the prosecutor's decision to pursue a formal criminal charge is made within approximately the first 21 days after your arrest. This time table can be shorter on more sensitive matters, such as domestic violence and violation of injunction cases.
Diversion Programs - Getting the Charge Dismissed
These are programs that temporarily postpone criminal prosecution of your case within the Pinellas County Criminal Justice System. You enter into a written contract which is signed by the prosecutor, you, your attorney, and the judge. For a pre-determined period of time you are required to stay out of trouble and commit no further crimes. Upon satisfactory completion of all the conditions of your contract, the criminal charges are dismissed by the Court. Learn more about Getting Your Pinellas County Criminal Charge Dismissed here.
Plea Bargains - A Negotiated Final Outcome
May be negotiated between the Pinellas County State Attorney's Office, your lawyer, and the Judge. A plea bargain can conclude your case quickly and avoid the expense and risk associated with an adverse outcome after a jury trial. This "agreed upon" final outcome can often be structured to:
- Not jeopardize employment.
- Extend time to meet court imposed financial obligations.
- Avoid formal convictions.
Pleas In Absentia - Resolving Your Case without Your Attendance at Court
Enables the case to be satisfactorily settled without the need for a trial or even your personal appearance in court. If you live outside of the St. Petersburg / Clearwater area, we may be able to resolve your case without your presence and keep you at work. Learn how we can help "Out of Town Offenders."
Sealing or Expungement of Criminal Records
Makes the information about your case nonexistent to inquiring members of the public or potential employers. Allows you to truthfully state, with limited exception, that you were never arrested or charged with a criminal offense.
Watch our video on the Sealing or Expungment of Criminal Records
Read our webpage article about Sealing or Expunging Your Criminal Records.
Learn Where You Stand and What Your Options Are
Our office can provide you with a free Pinellas County criminal background check and lifetime Florida driver's license record. We can also obtain a full computer print out of your current case history and status. Together, we will investigate your charge and ask the following important questions:
- What are the strengths and weaknesses of your case?
- Can some of the Prosecutor's evidence against you be ruled inadmissible by the Court? (illegal search and seizure)
- Are you eligible for programs that could result in the dismissal of your charges?
- Can your case be handled without your appearance in court?
- Can a "continuance" of your court date be obtained to further investigate your options?
- What is your greatest concern and how can the case be resolved in a way that protects your best interests?
Call Russo & Russo today for a free initial consultation at (727) 578-0303.
Related: Other Possible Solutions to Your Criminal Charge
- Outstanding Pinellas County Arrest Warrants
- Early Termination of Probation
- Probation - A Second Chance
- Avoiding Conviction
- Avoiding Jail
- Avoiding Post-Arrest Publicity
- Social Security Benefits & Outstanding Warrants
- Restoring Your Civil Rights
- Traffic Tickets
- Your Florida Driver's License Status
- Obtaining Your Criminal Records
- Other Legal Problems
