Orlando Criminal Law, Misdemeanors, Felonies and DUI DWI

Orlando Attorney Elaine Barbour is a Florida Bar Board Certified Lawyer specializing in criminal law including DUI DWI arrests. This Certification is the highest level of recognition by the Florida Bar of the competency and experience of an attorney. While there are many attorneys in the Orlando area practicing criminal law, few have the distinction Ms. Barbour has of being Florida Bar Board Certified.  When considering the hire of an attorney, you should always ask if he or she is Board Certified in criminal law.  If the attorney is not, then you should thoroughly investigate the experience and capabilities of that attorney.  Hiring an attorney who is Board Certified, such as Elaine Barbour, assures you the attorney has been ranked by judges, other attorneys and the Florida Bar as having a high level of expertise and capability in criminal trial law.  When it is your freedom on the line, you owe it to yourself to have that kind of expertise working for you.  In her 18 year career, Ms. Barbour has been successful in obtaining acquittals or not guilty verdicts in a majority of her cases. She has also been successful in having charges dropped for many more clients before the trial stage of litigation.

If you are being accused of a crime you deserve an attorney who will fight for your rights. Your future is at stake.  Being charged and convicted of a crime can lead to job loss, a criminal record, and jail time. Don't settle for anything less than an aggressive attorney dedicated to fighting for your well-being. Ms. Barbour is most mindful of the grave concerns of her clients and their families. Our number one goal is to keep our clients free from the threat of incarceration. The Law Office of Elaine Barbour is fully committed to protecting your rights and advocating for your interests during a family crisis, criminal accusation, or DUI arrest. Ms. Barbour is known and respected by judges, prosecutors, and other lawyers. For an aggressive Orlando attorney who will represent your interests, call a lawyer who will vigorously fight for your rights, call Elaine Barbour.

Frequently asked questions.

What are my rights if I have been accused of a crime?
If you have been accused of a crime you have a number of rights as guaranteed by the US Constitution including the right to remain silent to prevent self-incrimination and the right to legal representation. There are also laws regarding search and seizure. Law enforcement must obtain a search warrant before they can search a specific place. There are circumstances however where police do not need a warrant to search and arrest you.

How serious is a DUI arrest?
In Florida Driving under the influence is a criminal offense that can be either a misdemeanor or a felony. If there are 3 or more convictions of DUI in the last 10 years, the charges can be more serious.

How do I get out of jail after I have been arrested?
Once bail has been set the only way to get out of jail is to pay the bail. Bail is like an insurance policy that guarantees the accused will not flee and will appear at all subsequent hearings on the matter. If you do not appear it may result in forfeiture of the bond.

What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony?
Most crimes are divided into two categories, misdemeanor or felony depending on the severity of the charge.  A felony crime is more serious than a misdemeanor and can carry a sentence of prison time of more than one year. Other penalties may include fines, reimbursement to the victim, community service and probation.

Why should I hire a criminal defense attorney?
The constitution guarantees the right to obtain an attorney. A competent experienced defense lawyer who will fight for your rights is your best friend after being arrested and charged with a crime. Your legal interests must be maximized and the hardship to you and your loved ones minimized. Most judges will not even consider a plea bargain from a defendant without a criminal defense attorney.