After a criminal case is over, some people still need the services of a competent Florida criminal attorney. There are a variety of issues that can crop up long after a criminal trial is over, often as a surprise to the individual.

Probation Violations

After someone has been convicted and punished for a crime in the State of Florida, they may be put on probation. There are specific requirements that must be followed after someone has been released from incarceration or to prevent incarceration. They are often required to meet with a probation officer, perform community service and avoid further infractions with the law. With alcohol- or drug-related offenses, the individual is often forbidden to be around those substances. When conditions of probation are not met, the person’s probation supervisor can have them charged with a violation. If found guilty of the violation, they may see more jail time, pay additional fines or face additional community service. Probation violations are often caused by a misunderstanding or a lapse in judgment. Having a Florida criminal lawyer to explain the charges is helpful for the defendant. It is also important to have an attorney to protect the person’s rights and smooth over any misunderstandings. It is also possible to have any further punishment lessened by a skilled legal negotiator.

Expungement

When a juvenile or first-time offender gets into trouble with the law, it is sometimes possible to have certain crimes expunged from their record. This means that when they reach adulthood or go a certain amount of time without another violation, the conviction is wiped clean from their record. Expungement is sometimes offered in exchange for a plea agreement. There are certain types of crimes that are not eligible for expungement. In many cases, a crime will remain on someone’s record until years later, as an adult, they find themselves unable to secure employment, attain credit or gain entry to certain universities. In this case, it is sometimes possible to have their juvenile record sealed. A Florida criminal defense attorney can determine whether the case is eligible for seal and file the proper motions to do so.

Warrants

Sometimes people find out by accident that a warrant has been issued for them. There are typically three types of warrants issued in Florida. The first is a bench warrant. It is usually the result of a missed court date. The second is a violations warrant, which happens when someone does not comply with their probation requirements. The third is a capias, or an arrest warrant. While there is often a misunderstanding involved, incarceration can be a result.