FAQs
Criminal Defense FAQs
When should I call a lawyer?
Time is of the essence when dealing with a criminal charge. The time to call a lawyer is as soon as you become aware that the police want to talk to you or that you learn of an impending arrest. A lawyer can help ensure your safety and potentially spare you the embarrassment of being arrested at home or workplace. Calling a lawyer BEFORE you make any statements to the police can also protect you from making mistakes that will be hard to undo later down the road. If you have already been arrested, a lawyer may be able to reason and provide persuasive information to the prosecutor to reduce or avoid criminal charges altogether before your first court date. If you are facing a criminal charge, the time to call a lawyer is now.
How much does it cost to hire a lawyer?
The cost for a criminal defense varies based on the type of case and the complexity of the evidence. We offer a free consultation in order to assess the case and decide a reasonable fee. At Jaques Law, P.A., we generally charge a flat fee for criminal cases and offer payment plans so that a private attorney is accessible to most people charged with a crime. We take a variety of payments, including credit cards, PayPal, Venmo or CashApp, to make hiring an attorney an easy process. Even if you think you cannot afford an attorney, it is wise to have a free consultation so that you have a better idea of what to expect before going to court.
My loved one is in jail. How can you do a free consultation with them?
Very often, when the need arises for a criminal defense attorney, the accused is in custody. We are happy to review the case with the family member, or to schedule a private video conference with the accused at the jail if that is available. In Volusia County, unless the inmate is quarantined, we can usually schedule a video conference within 24 hours.
I am innocent, so why do I need a Lawyer?
Innocent people get charged with crimes and are often convicted. At Jaques Law, P.A., we have the experience and knowledge to review the evidence and find the weaknesses in order to begin to dismantle the government’s case against you by moving to suppress statements and evidence or discrediting witnesses. A lawyer can also help to preserve all of your constitutional rights, to properly preserve your case for a potential appeal in event you don’t get the outcome you want, and to give you peace of mind during this dark and stressful time. An innocent person needs an advocate just as much, if not more than, a guilty person.
What kind of criminal cases do you handle?
We handle any type of criminal case in county, state or appellate court. We are also admitted to practice in federal court. Ms. Jaques has experience in all aspects of criminal trial law to include homicides, sex crimes, firearms crimes, drug trafficking, robberies, carjacking, kidnapping, child abuse, domestic violence, burglary, theft and DUI. We handle cases at the trial and appellate levels, as well as post-conviction relief and wrongful convictions.
Do you take calls after the end of the business day?
Our phones are answered, and messages returned 24 hours a day. If the attorney is unavailable, our answering service will get the attorney your message for a prompt response in an emergency situation. If your loved one has been arrested, we can usually make arrangements for the attorney to be present for the initial appearance before the judge.
How long will my case take?
The length of time for a case to make its way through the court system depends on the complexity of the case. In some cases, the attorney can persuade the prosecutor not to file formal charges or to offer a deferred prosecution agreement that can be completed in a matter of weeks. For more serious cases, it may take a year or more to resolve. At Jaques Law, P.A., we are here to make sure that your case progresses in the way that is most advantageous to you and will be by your side no matter how long it takes.