Individuals recently arrested for Possession of a Controlled Substance often worry about maintaining their freedom while their criminal drug case is pending. Although you may feel as if your life has been put on hold, the drug crimes defense attorneys in St. Petersburg, at Russo, Pelletier, & Sullivan, P.A. have the skills and expertise to help you keep your freedom.
In Florida, if charged with a crime, you are entitled to pretrial release with reasonable conditions. However, there are certain exceptions, such as if you have been previously charged with a capital offense or if the court determines that you present an imminent threat to the public, where pretrial release can be denied. If you are faced with a criminal drug case, contact our attorneys to have the best chance at maintaining your freedom while your case is pending.
What Is Pretrial Release?
Pretrial release allows the defendant to remain in the community while their criminal case is pending, allowing you to return to your job and home while awaiting the outcome of your court proceedings.
According to Florida Statute 907.041(3)(a) and Florida Statute 907.041(4), any person who has not been charged with a dangerous crime, may be released on monetary conditions (i.e. bond or “bail”), contingent upon your appearance in court and abiding by the law in the meantime.
While you may be able to return to your life in somewhat of a routine manner during the time you are waiting for your case to be resolved, you may be required to attend court hearings. However, in some cases, our top-rated Clearwater drug crimes lawyers may be able to excuse your appearance for some non-essential hearings.
Guidelines for Paying Bond (or “Bail”)
There are multiple paths to maintain your freedom while awaiting the results of your criminal case. The release conditions imposed prior to trial will depend on the discretion of the judge assigned to your case and the severity of the charges you are facing.
In Florida, being released on bond requires an individual to pay a set monetary amount to get out of jail. If presented with this option, you can make a full or partial payment to a bail bondsman.
For more information on bail amounts, you can review the Pinellas County Uniform Bond Schedule here. This document outlines the bond requirements in relation to the crime with which an individual is being charged, and can be a helpful resource for understanding the potential amount of bond that may need to be paid in your circumstance.
Guidelines for Being Released on Your Own Recognizance (ROR)
Being released on your own recognizance (ROR) is where an individual will not have to pay bail or, in some cases, report to anyone during the pendency of their case. This form of release has no set criteria, however, there are several factors that can influence one’s chances.
The most effective way to increase the chance of getting ROR is to be a local resident with ties to the community, be employed with no criminal record, and no prior history of failing to appear at court dates.
This form of release is contingent on your promise of showing up to all potential hearings and court appearances. Having experienced drug crime criminal defense attorneys like the team at Russo, Pelletier, & Sullivan, P.A. will also help. We have decades of experience working in the Pinellas County courts and are familiar with the judges and prosecutors. Based on what judge is assigned to your case, we can tailor our argument to the judge to increase the chances you may be released ROR.
It is vital to have an experienced defense attorney in St. Petersburg on your side, from your first appearance through the conclusion of the matter. The attorneys at Russo, Pelletier & Sullivan, P.A. can help. Complete our contact request form or give us a call today at (727) 578-0303 for a free case evaluation.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.