If you’re in school at FSU, FAMU or TCC and you’ve been charged with a crime then you need to speak to an attorney. Your freedom, your education and your future will all be affected by your arrest. You need an experienced, knowledgeable and devoted attorney who will dedicate his time and energy to your case, and you need someone who will protect your future. Attorney Williams has handled cases for hundreds of college students, he’s successfully represented dozens of students in student disciplinary proceedings. He can protect your future as well.
I Was Arrested. What is Going to Happen Next?
If you were arrested or given a notice to appear then you’ll be required to appear in court. In some cases, your attorney will be able to work out a diversion agreement which will ultimately lead to your case being dropped. In other cases, your attorney will negotiate a plea agreement and represent you at a plea hearing. If you can’t reach an agreement with the state then you may end up having a jury trial. Either way, you need to speak to an attorney who can explain your rights, any defenses you may have and the criminal justice process in general.
Will I Have a Disciplinary Hearing?
There is a strong possibility that you will be required to attend a disciplinary hearing at your college or university if you’ve been arrested, especially for a felony charge. Every University has its own disciplinary process, and you have a right to a representative throughout that process. The University can impose sanctions, suspend you or even expel you for allegations arising out of your arrest, so it is important that you speak to an attorney who has experience successfully representing students in disciplinary proceedings.
Will This Arrest Remain on My Record?
In Florida, criminal records are completely public, meaning anyone can easily see the record. That also means that your arrest photo will probably end up on the internet and may end up in the local newspaper once you’ve been booked at your local jail. In addition, any graduate or professional school you apply to will see the record when you apply if it remains public. Fortunately, most arrests can be sealed after you finish serving your sentence, including probation. Your photo can also be taken down with the help of an experienced attorney. If you’ve been arrested and you want to figure out how to get your arrest sealed or expunged, contact Attorney Williams for a free consultation.
Do I Need an Attorney?
Yes, you need an attorney. You’re in school and you have a bright future ahead of you, but if you end up with a conviction on your record, even for a misdemeanor, you will never be ever to seal or expunge anything on your record. Job opportunities will be lost and your school may even impose a sanction that ends your college tenure. An experienced attorney can work to have your case dismissed, have your record expunged and have your mistake remain in the past.
If you have questions about your arrest, your charges or a disciplinary hearing at your school, or if you were arrested and you need help figuring out what to do then contact Attorney Williams for a free consultation. He’ll take the time to discuss your case in detail and answer any question you have.