What are my rights before I'm arrested?

You have the right not to incriminate yourself, which is also known as the right to remain silent.

You have the right to be free of "unreasonable search and seizure," though there are various regulations and exceptions that accompany that right.

You have the right to an attorney. We will get you in touch with a criminal defense attorney who can make sure that you understand your rights. It's important to note, however, that your right to an attorney does not necessarily apply to your decision as to whether to take or refuse a Breathalyzer or blood alcohol test.

You also have the right to be advised by police about these rights, commonly called Miranda Rights

Where can I find more information about my local Courthouse?

Phone: 941-749-1800
Address: P.O. Box 25400
Bradenton, Florida 34206
Visit The Official Clerk's Office Site.

 

When can the police conduct a search of my property?

There are rules and regulations that surround police searches. The police can search your home, property, car, or financial records if they have probable cause to believe that they'll find evidence of a crime, and therefore receive a search warrant issued by a judge.

But in some situations, the police can also conduct a search without a warrant. If, for example, a potential piece of evidence is sitting out in the open, where there is "no reasonable expectation of privacy," then the police aren't required to have a search warrant to conduct a search. They also don't need a warrant if you voluntarily agree to a search. Many people have let the police search when they didn't have to, because they didn't know they had the right to refuse. It is easy to misstep and hurt your case, but a criminal defense attorney will be able to give you the explicit details of search and seizure laws as they pertain to your case.