First Time Offenders
Not all crimes are created the same. Not all clients are the same either. A first time offender, for example, will have different goals and needed outcomes for his criminal matter that an individual who has been through the system before.
Avoiding a Criminal Record
Universally, those charged with a criminal charge for the first time strive to avoid a criminal record at all costs. All things else being equal a criminal conviction can result in:
- Lost jobs
- Inability to obtain employment
- Loss of the right to vote
- Loss of the right to bear arms
If this is your first arrest, your criminal attorney will seek to get your charges dismissed or have adjudication withheld. In other words, your criminal attorney will try to keep your record clean. Sometimes this can be done through negotiation with the State Attorney. Other times, by getting the Judge to withhold adjudication. And still other times, by utilizing diversionary programs.
After the Case is Over: Making it Go Away
When your case is over, if we have have successfully gotten the state to dismiss your case or had the Judge withhold adjudication, then you will be eligible to have your case sealed and/or expunged. In this process, we go through the Florida Department of Law Enforcement to either seal or incinerate the evidence of your arrest and criminal prosecution. We can even have your online arrest data removed.
The reality is that our children and grandchildren will be able to go online and know everything about us. Ideally, booking photos would not be one of the things our grandchildren see. By sealing and expunging your arrest inquiry, you can protect your legacy.
Experienced Attorneys Representing First Time Offenders
Realize that while this is your first and only time in the criminal justice system, our attorneys have handled thousands of cases just like yours. We know what it takes to help you reach your ultimate goal: to stay out of jail, and to keep your record clean. When your case is ultimately resolved, we will work on sealing and expunging your case, when applicable.
Call the tampa criminal attorneys at Denmon & Denmon Trial Lawyers today at 813.554.3232 (Hillsborough) and 727-753-0049 (Pinellas and Pasco). Ask to speak directly to an attorney.