Criminal Defense in Daytona
We understand that most people are happier if they never have to deal with a criminal defense lawyer. It’s not like hiring a lawyer to do your house closing or write your will. Folks only turn to a criminal defense lawyer when they are in trouble with the law. Criminal defense lawyers deal with the issues surrounding the prosecution of someone accused of a crime. They typically work as solo practitioners or in smaller firms, though some large firms do represent individuals or companies charged with crimes. Defense lawyers’ work may include the investigation of that alleged crime, arguing for reduced or no bail, conducting plea negotiations, attending hearings and trials, arguing for reduced sentences, and pursuing post-trial appeals of guilty verdicts. Jessica Damoth is a criminal defense attorney in Daytona Beach. She specializes in defending clients accused of drug charges, driving under the influence, domestic violence, fleeing and attempting to elude, burglary, grand theft, petit theft, battery, assault, trespass, reckless driving and traffic offenses.
Typically, the police only arrest and charge an alleged criminal. It’s up to the state or local prosecutor to decide whether there’s enough evidence to pursue a conviction or guilty plea. An experienced criminal defense lawyer may be able to intervene and show the prosecutor facts that convince him not to pursue charges in the first place. That means there’s only a record of the arrest, not a conviction or guilty plea.
Criminal defendants in Florida are entitled to certain protections under the U.S. and state constitutions. In addition to a review of the charges and the alleged facts, an experienced defense lawyer will also evaluate whether there were any possible constitutional violations. The attorney will also assess the strength of the prosecution’s case and consider any potential defenses or circumstances that may relate to guilt or any possible sentence.
As with any legal specialty, there is no substitute for experience. How individual prosecutors work, who the judges are, and how to navigate the often intimidating world of the criminal justice system are all things learned only after years of practice.