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Frequently Asked Questions

Florida Attorney - A. Jay Fowinkle

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A. Jay Fowinkle, Esq.

228 E. Hillcrest St.

Orlando, Florida (FL) 32801

 

Office:    407-246-8788

Fax:        407-246-8786

Cell:       407-416-6630

 

 

 
 

Frequently Asked Questions?

Table of Contents

  1. When do I have to consent to a search?
  2. How do I know if I need an attorney?
  3. Where can I find information on my case?
  4. Can I seal or expunge my record?
  5. How much will it cost to hire an attorney?           

When do I have to consent to a search?

 

If a police officer approaches you on the street you DO NOT have to consent to a search unless you are under arrest.  Ask if you are under arrest, if you are not you are free to walk away.

 

 

You DO NOT have to consent to the search of your car unless you are under arrest.  If you feel you are not free to leave or if a routine traffic stop is unreasonably long ask if you are being detained and call your attorney.

 

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How do I know if I need an attorney?

 

 

If you or a loved one have been arrested you need to seek legal council as quickly as possible. The longer you wait the more difficult it can be for an attorney to properly defend your case.  If you are under arrest or being investigated for a crime you DO NOT have to talk to the police.  You have the constitutional right to remain silent.  Remember, investigators are highly trained in interrogation techniques.  Call an attorney immediately. 

 

 

Anytime you receive a subpoena for court appearance it is advisable to consult with an attorney.  In family matters such as divorces, injunctions, child custody, support, and visitation we are always available to advise you.  When in doubt it is better to call and ask a quick question than to regret being uninformed. 

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Where can I find information on my court case?

 

 If you need help locating your case online, or have questions about certain language concerning your case, contact our office.  Below is a link to the Statewide Clerk of Courts system. 

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Can I seal or expunge my record?

 

Certain requirements must be met in order for charges to be expunged from a record.  Nolle prosecui, withhold of adjudication, or non-guilty verdicts are necessary.   It is best that each situation be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.  Contact our office for a free phone consultation to determine if your record is eligible.  For more information on the types of charges that can be sealed or expunged refer to the following link:

 

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How much will it cost to hire an attorney?

 

The hiring of an attorney is an important decision to make.  Many factors go into an attorney’s pricing structure.  Each case needs to be evaluated and discussed in detail with the client before a price can be determined.  Contact our office and we will be glad to go over your case and provide a quote.  We try to work with our clients by providing flexible payment plans and competitive rates.       

     

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Welcome to our Frequently Asked Questions section. Get answers to your queries from Florida attorney, A. Jay Fowinkle.