Criminal Notice to Appear in Orlando

legal notice to appear in court

A Notice to Appear (NTA) most closely resembles a simple citation or ticket which is why many people fail to take them seriously. In all actuality, a Notice to Appear in Orlando carries the same implications as being arrested as individuals face the same criminal penalties. Those who fail to appear in court on the date they were assigned face having a warrant out for their arrest and additional charges being added to their case. Avoid any further legal issues by contacting an experienced attorney the moment you’re issued an NTA.

The criminal defense attorneys at The Umansky Law Firm are seasoned lawyers with experience as former prosecutors on the state and local level. We can explain to you the criminal penalties you may be facing and serve as your legal representation throughout all court proceedings. Navigating the criminal justice system independent of legal counsel can be a daunting task. Our team of zealous attorneys can you guide you through the legal process.

What is a Notice to Appear?

A criminal Notice to Appear or NTA is defined in Florida Rule of Criminal Procedure 3.125 as:

“a written order issued by a law enforcement officer in lieu of physical arrest requiring a person accused of violating the law to appear in a designated court or governmental office at a specified date and time.”

Those issued an NTA are inputted into the state and federal system the same way as if they were arrested. The process in Orlando will go as follows:

  • The police officer issues you an NTA in the form of a citation instead of arresting you
  • You schedule to appear in court in front of a county court judge
  • You go through the same criminal process as if you were arrested

At your initial court appearance, the county judge will inform you of the State’s offer and ask if you would like to resolve the case then and there. As tempting as it may be to settle the issue on the spot, it is crucial that you do not resolve your criminal case without the legal counsel of an experienced criminal defense attorney.

There are often hidden consequences that come with settling the legal matter which can include deportation, driver’s license suspension, and the inability to have the offense expunged or sealed.

When is a Notice to Appear Issued?

It is at the officer’s discretion whether or not he issues an NTA or arrests an individual. Those most likely to receive an NTA instead of being arrested are those with no prior criminal record or those facing minor criminal charges like petit theft or driving with a suspended license. There are situations, however, when an officer is required to make an arrest. This includes instances of domestic battery or a DUI. Some other instances that may require an officer to make an arrest include:

  • If you are uncooperative
  • If you aren’t from the local area
  • If you have a criminal record

The expectations as to when or when not to issue an NTA vary depending on the police department. Generally speaking, police officers have broad discretion as to whether they make an arrest or issue an NTA.

Speak to an Orlando Attorney About a Criminal Notice to Appear

If you were issued a criminal Notice to Appear in Orlando, be sure to take swift action. NTAs aren’t something that you should blow off as the criminal repercussions can be grave. Your future, career, scholarships, and licenses are all at stake.

Get the help you need by speaking with a criminal defense lawyer with The Umansky Law Firm. Our team of attorneys shares over 100 years of experience that they can put to use to mitigate your criminal penalties. Contact us today  for a free case evaluation.

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