Tampa Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer

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The Criminal Justice Process: Moving Forward

For more information about the criminal law process in Florida state courts, please read the information below. For additional information about the various steps, follow these links:

If you wish to speak to an attorney from Mark J. O’Brien, with offices in Tampa and Orlando, please call us at 813-440-2347, en Español at 813-390-2494 or Orlando at 407-305-4585.

State Attorney Hearing

An informal but crucial hearing, the state attorney hearing, takes place at the State Attorney’s Office. The defendant and his or her lawyer do not attend the hearing. An assistant state attorney takes this time to interview various witnesses in the hope of determining what is viable for use in court. Should enough evidence accumulate, there is a period of 21 days in which charges can be filed after the arrest.

Status Conference

Before trial, a status conference occurs. At this time, defendants are presented before the judge to advise them if they feel prepared for trial. If they do not feel ready for trial, they must submit a motion for continuance.

Pretrial Conference Hearing

One or two weeks before trial is set to take place, a pretrial conference is held. The defendant must appear in court at this time, and the final date and time of trial are set. Victims may attend the pretrial conference; however, it is not mandatory.