Recently, Sarasota criminal defense lawyer Erika Valcarcel assisted a woman in Hardee County when some very serious charges put her criminal record and her freedom in jeopardy. In order to separate herself from the residents of a shared home, the woman in question moved into a trailer on the rural property; however, it was not far enough. Eventually, police officers executed a warrant for the residence, which also included the trailer and some marijuana was discovered. While a marijuana possession charge is significant for anyone as a first-degree misdemeanor, punishable by up to a year in jail, the woman’s problems were compounded by the officers’ allegations that she attempted to conceal the marijuana by putting it down the sink during the search. This consequently resulted in an additional charge of tampering with evidence that could potentially send her to jail for a total of five years. This woman, who had no prior criminal history and some significant medical issues was desperate for help and eventually came to the experienced legal professionals at Erika Valcarcel, Criminal Defense Lawyer, P.A. for a consultation.
After thoroughly reviewing the circumstances surrounding the incident and by getting to know her client personally, it was clear to attorney Valcarcel that this woman was using the marijuana to treat her medical issues. While Florida does not permit the legal use of medical marijuana like many other states, attorney Valcarcel believed that this contributing factor was important and should be brought to light. Therefore, she zealously negotiated with the prosecution and despite the additional felony tampering charge, the prosecution relented and agreed to enroll her client in a pre-trial intervention program. As such, this client’s wise decision to choose a compassionate and knowledgeable criminal defense attorney, like Erika Valcarcel, saved her from any time behind bars and after completing some required drug diversion classes and treatment, all the charges against her will be dismissed, and she will eventually be eligible for expungement.
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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.
