Do I really need a lawyer?

[jax]

What is the name of your state? Florida

I was recently arrested on warrants from 1999, almost 7 years ago. The warrent was for Battery/Simple-Statue S784.03 and Criminal Mischief ($200 or less)-Statue S806.13.
I was never arrested on the charges and was unaware of the entire situation until I was arrested yesterday. I have read that the statue of limitations for any misdeamenaor offense is 2 years. If this is the case, shouldn't these charges automatically be dropped when I appear in court or should I seek legal representation to make sure that I am cleared of the charges. This incident happened 7 years ago and I was never arrested on assault charges. I am currently active in my commuity as a coach and fear that an assualt charge may interfere with my ability to keep coaching. What advice can you offer?

 

[weenor]

Get a lawyer. The SOL relates to the time between the alleged crime and when the charges and warrant are issued. The warrant tolled the SOL so you can be convicted.

 

[jax]

I'm not sure I understand. Are you saying that as long as the warrant was issued within 2 years, it doesn't matter how much time has passed when you're actually served and arrested?

 

[weenor]

I'm not sure I understand. Are you saying that as long as the warrant was issued within 2 years, it doesn't matter how much time has passed when you're actually served and arrested?

Yep********************************************************

 

[jax]

Is there a possibility of getting the charges reduced to a lesser charge?

 

[weenor]

That will depend on the facts and circumstances of your case. DA's will usually deal, but will deal better with a criminal defense attorney rather than an unrepresented party. Since you have something at stake, spend the money and get a lawyer.