Q & A
- What are mandatory minimum sentences?
- There are mandatory minimum jail sentences in DUI, Drugs, weapons cases, etc. Where the judge is limited with power to give alternative sentencing. Getting the right attorney is important.
- Can I make a bond if I have a probation violation?
- Some counties don’t allow bonds on probation violations especially on felony cases. Sometimes the attorney can get the district attorney to agree on a bond and the judge will approve it.
- Can I make a bond if I have a parole violation?
- You cannot make a bond on a parole violation and must sit in jail until a decision is made by the board. Sometimes an attorney can get the hearing date moved up.
- How do I post bail?
- A bonding company can get you out of jail with you posting ten percent of the bond and having a cosigner. Due to jail overcrowding, you might be able to get out of jail without posting bail.
- What does a source hearing have to do with me making bail?
- If your bond is $75,000 or more, you must show the court that the money being used to make your bond is coming from a legal source. The attorney can help coordinate this.
- What happens if my case is bound over to the grand jury?
- A group of 12 individuals from the community will decide whether there is probable cause that you might have committed certain offenses and if the answer is yes, you will be indicted in criminal court and will need an attorney to represent you!
- Can I still be indicted if my case gets dismissed in general sessions court?
- If your case is not dismissed on its merits and on a legal technicality, you still can be indicted and be rearrested and make a new bond. Sometimes people aren’t aware of this and need an experienced attorney to make sure this doesn’t happen.
- Is there anything I can do if I miss a court date?
- You can hire an attorney to get the judge to set aside your capias, so you won’t get arrested for missing court!
- Can I appeal the verdict of an offense I was convicted of?
- You have a certain number of days to appeal a decision adverse to you. Your attorney should keep you updated on what that date is and the pros and cons of the appeal.
- What does lifetime supervision mean for sex offenders?
- After your regular probation is over, certain sex offense convictions require probation for life! An attorney can try to get this requirement reduced after a certain period of time.
- Do I need to hire an attorney before I talk to the police?
- You need to talk to an attorney before you talk to the police. You never know if the police consider you a suspect and are trying to get as much info possible to charge you with a crime based on your own statements.