Legal Rights, Case Process & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
West Palm Beach Criminal Defense Lawyers
The Criminal Justice System is complex and full of rules and procedures. The criminal defense attorneys at The Suskauer Law Firm are Florida Bar Board Certified and have handled all types of criminal cases for more than 37 years combined. We believe it is in the best interests of the accused to obtain qualified legal representation who can ensure that their rights are protected and advise them on the best way to proceed.
While we cannot provide all related laws and rights here on this site, we have selected a few of the most important legal rights for you to know. If you or a loved one is being charged with any crime, and you are uncertain about the process or any aspect of the situation, contact our law firm. We are happy to answer your questions, and explain the rights of the accused in more detail.
Also see our Case Process, Legal Terms and FAQ pages.
Important Legal Rights to Know and Understand
The “Bill of Rights” of the United States Constitution details the basic rights of citizens under arrest for criminal offenses. The infringement (violations) of these rights can drastically affect the outcome of criminal proceedings, typically in favor of the defendant. Here are just a few protected rights:
- “No person . . . shall be compelled in any criminal case to be a witness against himself (Miranda Warning), nor be deprived of life, liberty or property, without due process of law . . .” (Fifth Amendment).
- “In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall enjoy the right to a speedy and public trial, by an impartial jury . . . and to be informed of the nature and cause of the accusation; to be confronted with the witnesses against him; to have compulsory process for obtaining witnesses in his favor; and to have the assistance of counsel for his defense.” (Sixth Amendment).
- “Excessive bail shall not be required, nor excessive fines imposed, nor shall cruel and unusual punishments be inflicted.” (Eighth Amendment).
- Since the adoption of the Fourteenth Amendment to the Constitution, the states have also had to guarantee these rights. This amendment provides that: “No state shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge the privileges or immunities of the citizens of the United States . . .”
