LAW OFFICE OF
MADISON
HOWELLER

A word from your criminal defense attorney
Madison Howeller, a native Floridian and Volusia County resident comes from a family of attorneys. After earning a Bachelor's in Advertising from UCF and working in the advertising industry in Chicago, Madison returned to Florida to pursue law, graduating in the top ten of her class from Barry Law School in 2020. Following a stint at the Seminole County State Attorney's Office, where she gained invaluable courtroom experience, Madison realized that her true passion was criminal defense. Now running her own practice, Madison is dedicated to helping clients navigate criminal cases across several Florida counties.
Probation in Florida
A common resolution in criminal cases is to place a Defendant on supervised probation in lieu of incarceration. Probation is an agreement whereby a Defendant completes or refrains from certain tasks while under the supervision of a court officer. Read more about probation and violations of probation below.
Violation of Probation
A violation of probation (VOP) occurs when someone fails to follow the terms of their probation. In Florida, VOP cases are treated very differently from regular criminal cases. The legal protections are fewer, and the burden of proof is much lower. The state only needs to prove the violation by a preponderance of the evidence. There is no right to a jury trial or to remain silent during a VOP hearing. Hearsay evidence is often allowed, and probationers can be forced to testify. There’s no statute of limitations or guarantee of a speedy hearing. Many individuals are not entitled to bond, especially under the Anti-Murder Act. The consequences can be serious, including extended probation or jail time. An experienced attorney is critical to defending against a violation of probation.
Articles
Sentencing

In criminal law, sentencing is when a judge imposes punishment on a convicted defendant to ensure accountability, protect society, deter future crimes, and rehabilitate the offender, following state laws.
Read MoreResolution Options

A criminal case may end in various ways. The following sections address the most common ways that a case may be resolved.
Read MoreProcess of a Criminal Case

The life of a criminal case involves several stages. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help guide you through the process.
Read MoreTypes of Pleas in a Criminal Case

If you have been charged with a crime, there are three basic pleas that can be entered to resolve your case: Guilty, Not Guilty, and No Contest.
Read More
DUI and BUI

Sealing and Expungement

Criminal Traffic
