Howeller's Law Articles

Pre-Trial Motions

During the life of a criminal case, several procedural motions can be filed by your attorney. These motions help protect your constitutional rights and ensure that the evidence brought against you was obtained legally.

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Sentencing

In criminal law, sentencing refers to the process by which a judge imposes a punishment on a defendant who has been convicted of a crime. The purpose of sentencing is to hold the defendant accountable for their actions, to protect society from further harm, to deter future criminal behavior, and to rehabilitate the offender when possible. Judges have some discretion in sentencing, but they must adhere to state laws and guidelines. Some nuances of Florida’s sentencing process are highlighted below.

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Resolution Options

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

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Trial Motions

Discover common trial motions in criminal cases, from change of venue to motions for mistrial and directed verdicts.

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Process of a Criminal Case

A criminal case in Florida typically follows a series of stages, from the initial arrest to potential trial and beyond. Remember that the details may vary based on the case's specific circumstances, the severity of the charges, and whether the case involves a misdemeanor or a felony.

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Types 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. The best plea to enter depends on the type of case, the evidence against you, and the resolution offer provided by the State Attorney. Read about the different types of pleas below, but please consult with an attorney prior to entering one of these pleas in court. An attorney can explain the consequences of each plea in your specific circumstances.

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