Not long ago, a young father became involved in a tough, but easily relatable situation that unfortunately led to criminal charges, when he took his wife and their two young children to the beach. Their family outing was quickly interrupted by a religious group that was using the popular destination as an opportunity to preach through megaphones. Evidently, the group’s message included some sensitive topics that began upsetting the man’s small children, and in an effort to protect them, he asked members of the group to tone down their fire and brimstone sermon, but they refused. After they declined his request, a small tussle ensued, which led to one of the group’s megaphones being smashed on the ground, and the man found himself charged with battery. The man was rightfully concerned because battery charges are considered a first-degree misdemeanor and if convicted, he’d face a possible jail sentence or probation in addition to having a permanent criminal record. The man did not want to see this transgression complicate his and his family’s lives any further, so he contacted a Sarasota criminal defense attorney with Erika Valcarcel, Criminal Defense Lawyer, P.A. for suitable representation.
Attorney Erika Valcarcel began working on the man’s behalf and after discussing the case with the assigned prosecutor, it became apparent, the prosecutor’s office wanted to pursue a conviction and a term of probation as the man’s penalty. Not believing this was appropriate considering the man’s history or the circumstances surrounding the incident, attorney Valcarcel continued negotiations and effectively convinced the prosecution to agree to dismiss the battery charge based on his completion of a Pretrial Intervention (PTI) Program, a community service requirement, and a one-day anger management class. Once these conditions were met, the man was also happy to learn that he’d become eligible for a total expungement of the battery charges, allowing him to easily move on after this incident without permanent harm being done.
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"Erika Valcarcel, Criminal Defense Lawyer, P.A. is the best you will find. Erika Valcarcel is completely honest and straightforward. She took a huge burden off my shoulders many times during difficult periods of my life knowing that she was doing everything that that could and should be done. Her knowledge is extensive and her advice has always been right on the mark. She is worth every penny of the fee she charges. You cannot go wrong securing her services."
Joni A. | Sarasota County
Domestic Violence Charges Dismissed in 10 Days
When a client was arrested for battery after an altercation with his girlfriend, he immediately contacted attorney Erika Valcarcel. The client was adamant that the entire situation was a misunderstanding, but nevertheless he was looking at a domestic violence conviction and potentially up to a year in jail. We acted fast on his behalf and discussed the situation with the State attorney’s office. We informed the prosecutor that our client's girlfriend did not want to proceed and highlighted the weaknesses in their case. Once they were aware of these developments, we successfully arranged to have the charges dismissed. This was all before our client's first court date and impressively all done within 10 days of the initial arrest.
