Law Office of Ricardo Alvarez, P.A.

Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney in Lakeland, FL - Ricardo Alvarez offers aggressive legal services for misdemeanors and felonies. Serving Polk County and Central FL. Contact Criminal Defense Lawyer Ricardo Alvarez Today!

Call 863.709.0808 about your Criminal Defense legal needs in Lakeland, Polk County, and Central Florida.

I am a former Assistant State Attorney. For years I litigated and handled thousands of criminal cases. I now use this experience to protect the legal rights and freedoms of those accused, arrested, and charged with committing a criminal offense.

If you have been charged with a crime, you need an attorney on your side who is knowledgeable of the law, experienced at trial, and able to negotiate for you from a position of strength.

Practicing in All Areas of Criminal Law

I can help you fight any criminal charge, from a traffic infraction, DUI, drug crimes, to homicide charges. We handle Local, State and Federal Criminal Cases.

Call our law office 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 863.709.0808, or by using our online case evaluation email form.

We stand ready to aggressively represent you, and answer all of your questions. An aggressive defense of your case in the early stages could lead to the charges against you being dismissed or reduced.

CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY SERVING LAKELAND, WINTER HAVEN, BARTOW, POLK COUNTY, AND CENTRAL FLORIDA

Contact Lawyer, Ricardo Alvarez today at 863.709.0808

Ricardo Alvarez is a Criminal Defense Attorney who serves the Lakeland, Winter Haven, Bartow, Polk County, Hardee County, Highlands County, Hillsborough County and Central Florida areas.

Attorney, Ricardo Alvarez handles local, state and federal criminal cases.

Mr. Alvarez is a former prosecutor for the 10th Judicial Circuit of Florida, whichh covers Hardee, Highlands, and Polk Counties.

Attorney, Ricardo Alvarez was also former producer, news director, and vice president of news & Sports for Telemundo in New York, NY, and was also a producer and executive producer for Univision in New York, NY and San Fransisco, CA.

RICARDO ALVAREZ - BIOGRAPHY › › ›

Criminal Defense • DUI Defense • Drug Charges • Felony • Misdemeanor • Arson • Assault • Battery • Burglary • Robbery • Theft • Traffic Crimes • Driving Under License Suspension • Domestic Violence Defense • Domestic Injunction Violations • Fraud Crimes • Homicide Crimes • Juvenile Offender Defense • Sealing and Expungement • Sex Crimes • Violation of Probation Defense • Weapon - Firearm Charge Defense • White Collar Crime Defense

CONTACT THE LAW OFFICE OF RICARDO ALVAREZ, P.A. › › ›

What are my rights if I am arrested in Florida?

If you are arrested in Florida, you have several important rights protected by the U.S. Constitution. These rights include the right to remain silent, which means you are not obligated to answer any questions from law enforcement beyond providing basic identification information. You also have the right to legal representation, and if you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed for you. You have the right to be informed of the charges against you, the right to a fair and speedy trial, and the right to be free from unreasonable searches and seizures. It's crucial to exercise these rights respectfully and calmly. You can request an attorney before answering any questions, and it's generally advisable to do so. Comply with lawful orders from law enforcement, but remember that you are not required to provide self-incriminating information.

How does the criminal justice process work in Florida, from arrest to trial?

The criminal justice process in Florida typically follows a series of steps from arrest to trial. It begins with an arrest, either with a warrant or based on probable cause. After arrest, the defendant is usually brought to a county jail or detention facility. Within 24 hours of arrest, there's usually a first appearance before a judge where the defendant is informed of the charges and bail may be set. If the case proceeds, the prosecution will conduct an investigation, and the defendant may hire an attorney or have one appointed if they cannot afford it. Pretrial proceedings include arraignment, discovery, and motions. If no plea agreement is reached, the case proceeds to trial. After trial, there may be sentencing, and if convicted, the defendant may serve a sentence in jail or prison, or in some cases, alternative programs like probation or community service. It's important to note that each case is unique, and the process can vary depending on the specifics of the situation.

Should I cooperate with law enforcement or exercise my right to remain silent?

Whether or not to cooperate with law enforcement or exercise the right to remain silent is a critical decision that should be made in consultation with an attorney. In the United States, you have the Fifth Amendment right to remain silent and not incriminate yourself. It's generally advisable to exercise this right and refrain from answering questions without legal counsel present, especially if you're a suspect or under investigation. Law enforcement may use tactics to gather information, and what you say can potentially be used against you. It's important to remember that cooperating does not necessarily guarantee leniency, and the assistance of an attorney can help protect your rights and guide you on how to interact with law enforcement within the boundaries of the law. It's essential to consult with an attorney before making any statements to law enforcement to ensure your rights are safeguarded.

Can I negotiate a plea deal or settlement in my criminal case in Florida?

Yes, plea deals or settlements, often referred to as plea bargains, are common in the criminal justice system in Florida, as in many other states. Prosecutors and defense attorneys can negotiate these agreements, where the defendant agrees to plead guilty to certain charges or to a lesser offense in exchange for a more lenient sentence or reduced charges. Plea bargains can have various benefits, including avoiding the uncertainty and potential harshness of a trial verdict. However, it's crucial to understand the terms and consequences of any plea deal thoroughly, as they can impact your criminal record, potential jail time, and other legal rights. It's highly advisable to have an experienced criminal defense attorney represent you in plea negotiations to ensure your interests are protected and that any deal is in your best interest.

What should I look for when choosing the right criminal defense attorney for my case in Florida?

When choosing the right criminal defense attorney in Florida, several crucial factors should guide your decision. First, seek an attorney with experience in the specific area of criminal law relevant to your case, whether it's drug offenses, DUI, domestic violence, or another type of crime. Look for an attorney with a solid track record of success, including a history of favorable verdicts or negotiated settlements. Communication is essential, so choose an attorney who listens to your concerns, explains legal concepts clearly, and keeps you informed about your case's progress. Honesty and trustworthiness are key; your attorney should be forthright about your case's strengths and weaknesses. Finally, consider the attorney's reputation, client reviews, and their rapport with local judges and prosecutors, as these factors can play a role in the outcome of your case.

What evidence can be used against me in my criminal case in Florida?

In a criminal case in Florida, various types of evidence can be used against you. This includes physical evidence like weapons, drugs, or stolen property that may have been seized during a lawful search and seizure. Testimonial evidence from witnesses, including statements you made to law enforcement or others, can also be presented. Surveillance footage, photographs, and forensic evidence such as DNA, fingerprints, or ballistics analysis can be used to establish facts in your case. Additionally, digital evidence like text messages, emails, or social media posts may be admitted as evidence if relevant. It's crucial to have a skilled defense attorney who can challenge the admissibility of evidence, scrutinize its credibility, and build a strong defense strategy on your behalf.

Are there any alternatives to incarceration for first-time offenders in Florida?

Yes, in Florida, there are alternatives to incarceration available for first-time offenders. One common option is probation, where an individual is supervised by a probation officer and required to meet certain conditions, such as attending counseling or performing community service, instead of serving time in jail or prison. Pretrial diversion programs may also be offered, allowing first-time offenders to complete specific requirements like drug education or community service in exchange for having their charges dropped. Additionally, some non-violent first-time offenders may be eligible for drug courts or mental health courts, which focus on rehabilitation and treatment rather than punishment. It's important to consult with a criminal defense attorney to explore the best alternatives based on the specific circumstances of the case.

How long does the criminal defense process typically take in Florida?

The duration of the criminal defense process in Florida can vary widely depending on several factors, including the complexity of the case, the backlog of cases in the court system, and whether a plea deal is negotiated or the case goes to trial. For minor misdemeanor cases, the process can be relatively swift and may conclude within a few months. However, felony cases, especially those with complex legal issues or involving multiple defendants, can take much longer—sometimes extending over a year or more from arrest to resolution. Pretrial motions, discovery, negotiations, and court availability all contribute to the timeline. Additionally, if a case goes to trial, it can further extend the process. Working closely with a criminal defense attorney can help individuals navigate the system and get a better estimate of the timeline for their specific case.

What are Evidentiary Hearings, and how can they help or hurt my criminal case in the State of Florida?

In the context of a criminal case in Florida, an evidentiary hearing is a legal proceeding where the court considers and evaluates the admissibility and weight of evidence presented by both the prosecution and the defense. These hearings can be crucial in determining the outcome of a case as they allow the judge to make decisions on issues like the suppression of evidence obtained unlawfully, the credibility of witnesses, or the validity of search warrants. While evidentiary hearings can potentially help your case by excluding damaging evidence or revealing weaknesses in the prosecution's case, they can also hurt your case if evidence that favors the prosecution is admitted. It's essential to have a skilled criminal defense attorney who can effectively present your arguments during these hearings to maximize their benefit and protect your rights.

Contact Domestic Violence Criminal Defense Lawyer, Ricardo Alvarez today at 863.709.0808

6700 Florida Ave S, Lakeland, FL 33813

Phone: 863.709.0808

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