Legal Question in Traffic Law in Florida

I was arraigned on a charge of Driving While Suspended and expected to just pay a fine, but the State made an offer of jail time. I pled guilty and said I would look for an attorney. It is becoming apparent to me that I cannot afford counsel and may have to ask for a public defender. I have a Determination of Counsel date in three weeks.

So, now my question. Should I go to my hearing with a list of attorneys I have contacted and tell the judge Sorry, but I didn't realize how much $..., or should I be proactive and phone the judge's secretary and tell her my tale and ask what can be done to expedite the public defender process without wasting the courts time?


Asked on 12/02/10, 4:04 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Craig Epifanio Craig Epifanio, P.A.

Actually you should do both. You need to be prepared for the worst. However, you will probably not be able to get through to the judge without the state attorney and the state attorney won't talk to you without you having an attorney. You also won't be able to get the public defender without going to court. In other words, go to court and tell the judge the situation.

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Answered on 12/07/10, 6:42 pm


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