Q: I’m looking for a lawyer that’s willing to take payment plans in Clearwater Florida (pinellas county)
My sister was charged with An A class felony of burglary/ assault after fighting with someone on Clearwater beach. Because she reached into her car and pulled her wig off they are saying it’s burglary. I don’t see how, but it’s Florida law. Camera doesn’t show anything the girl did to provoke. But I don’t have plenty of money and I need a lawyer that’s willing to at least take $1000-$1500 down, and the rest in payment plans. If that’s even possible.
A:
Hello, I am sorry to hear about her issues. I am sure there are plenty of Pinellas based lawyers who can work on her case via payment plans. You should look up Clearwater attorneys and call a few. Many give free consultations.
Good luck!
Nicholas Dorsten
A: Many lawyers practice in Pinellas. I suggest calling around to a number of attorneys who offer consultation.
A:
It appears that your sister was charged with Burglary with the intent to commit a Battery. First, the scary sounding part. Burglary/Battery is a 1st degree felony punishable by life under Florida Law. Under different circumstances - such as when someone breaks into a house with the intent to harm someone inside, the charge is justified.
You need to understand that the decision to charge your sister with this offense was made by the arresting officer. It is the State Attorney who makes the ultimate decision as to what to charge the defendant. No promises, but in my 40 yrs of experience as a prosecutor and a defense attorney, in many similar cases the State Attorney has decided to only file the battery charge- a misdemeanor. Sometimes, no charge at all.
As a result, it is critical for your sister to find an attorney who will contact the State Attorney BEFORE a final decision is made regarding the charge. There are many attorneys in this area who will work with her on their fees. Good luck.
Robert Heyman
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