SAM MASTERS LEGAL
A Professional Association
www.SamMastersLegal.com
Unless there was an agreement with the state ahead of time stating that you would have to go through the entire probationary period, many judges are willing to consider having your probation terminated early after you've served at least half of your probationary time as long as you've completed all the conditions of your probation. Sometimes if you complete your probation early, even if it isn't the halfway point, some judges and even prosecutors will consider terminating your probation early. You need to speak to an experienced attorney to determine whether or not you qualify for that.
I have been in Daytona Beach in Volusia County my entire life. I've practiced in Volusia County in Daytona Beach for 35 years. Five years as a prosecutor, 30 years as a defense lawyer. My assistant has worked with me for 30 years. Unfortunately, that means she can find me no matter where I am. So, you will always get to talk to me. And I will be the one handling your case. You're not going to hire an AV rated lawyer with my experience and then get calls from an associate with two years of experience. We're responding to our clients constantly. We give them answers. And I will create as many options for you as possible, and I will explain those options to you until you understand them.
They'll say that I communicated with them, I answered their questions whenever they called, I made myself available whenever they had questions and concerns. We provide great service. Even my assistant Patty, who's been with me 30 years, always knows where to find me, and my clients get to speak with me whenever they need to. And I think they've felt comfortable and satisfied with the results.
Experience and communication. I've been practicing for 35 years. I was a prosecutor for five years. I've been doing criminal defense for 30 years. I've made it my career to make sure my clients understand the process, understand what they're facing. I will explain all the options to them. They can call me, and I'll return their calls. I think those are vital in a representation of a client.
It's important to immediately contact experienced local counsel. They can reach out to the State; they can also determine whether or not we can surrender. You have the bond reduced, maybe even have the warrant recalled depending upon how old it is. In any event, it's important to have an attorney walk you through that process.
It depends on whether you have a prior criminal record or not. It depends on whether you entered a plea, or your charges were dismissed. If you are convicted of any criminal offense in Florida, there is probably nothing you can do about it. You'll need to consult an attorney who can look at your specific case and tell you whether or not you're eligible to have your record sealed or expunged.
Any criminal offense, no matter how minor it is can affect you in your career and later in life. I never recommend anyone going into court without representation. There's no way you will know all the options available to you, and if you make a mistake now, it makes it very difficult to correct later on.