The Criminal Defense Process
The Orlando-area criminal law system has two main components: state criminal law and federal criminal law. As the Orange County seat, Orlando has criminal law proceedings in both state and federal courts. The criminal law process follows a set path in each jurisdiction, and a skilled defense attorney like Ms Dione who practices exclusively on state proceedings can help you at every stage of the process:
Investigation
Investigations will be conducted most often by federal law enforcement
agencies such as the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), FBI,
or Department of Homeland Security, but local (state and county)
authorities may also conduct significant investigations before
making an arrest. If you are being investigated or simply suspect
that you are the subject of an investigation, protect your rights
now by consulting with Ms Dione R. Talkington Fletcher Attorney
at law P.A.
Arrest And Charges
When you’re arrested and booked (registered as having been arrested)—for
DUI, ASSAULT, THEFT, DRUG
POSSESSION or some other crime—the Orange
County State Attorney or the federal prosecutor will decide whether
to charge you with the crime for which you were arrested, and if
so, which crime or crimes to charge you with. Its Ms Dione’s job
as a criminal law attorney to protect your constitutional rights
at this time, including your right to:
- remain silent during your arrest
- have an attorney present when you are questioned by law enforcement or prosecutors
- get a fair and speedy trial (for major crimes)
- be presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt
It is Ms Dione's goal as your defense attorney to persuade the prosecutor to dismiss or reduce your criminal charge(s).
Bail
You may also be given the opportunity to post bail or a bond (a surety
for your later appearance in court). Before you post bail or a
bond, schedule a FREE in Office Consultation with Ms Dione to discuss
your case.
Hearings, Pleas, Trial
As a defendant, you will probably have to appear in a preliminary
hearing (for example, an arraignment, or probable cause hearing).
Ms Dione will advise you about your plea (e.g., not guilty, guilty,
nolo contendere) and appear with you at the hearing.
If your case goes to trial, whether before a judge alone (i.e., in
a bench trial) or before a jury, having a skilled criminal law defense
attorney like Ms Dione representing you can make the difference between
winning and losing your case.
Sentencing
For both state and federal crimes, a range of sentences and penalties
exist. Ms Dione will fight on your behalf to get the most favorable
sentence possible if you are convicted. Ms Dione can refer you
to an experienced criminal appeals attorney who can also work to
get your conviction reversed or get you a new trial.
Get An Orlando-Area Criminal
Law Attorney Today
No matter what stage of the criminal law process you are at, an aggressive
defense lawyer such as, Ms Dione R. Talkington Fletcher
Attorney at law P.A. can help you minimize the negative consequences of
your case. Contact Ms Dione
NOW, to discuss your circumstances
and learn more about your options.
