Legal Question in Civil Rights Law in Florida

Re: Adjudiction Withheld

It means that you were given probation, basically a second chance, rather than having to be judged innocent or guilty by a judge or jury. If you keep your nose clean for the probation period, then you will be done with this charge. They may also have told you that your record would be clean ("expunged") after that period.

In the future, do keep your nose clean. Even if you don't agree with an officer, you of course should follow their directions and complain later (to a lawyer or higher police authority) if necessary. Same goes for other people. Do not allow your self to be drawn into disagreements that could put you in legal trouble. Just walk away - it's in your best interests to keep a clean record.

Otherwise, you can end up back in court both on the new charge and on the old one, which will be "adjudicated" at that point. In other words, you might have to go through a trial and be judged innocent or guilty (or plea bargain to avoid a trial) on the original charge, as well as any new ones.

I hope that helps.

Good luck.

Jeff Sheldon

Jeffrey L. Sheldon, Esquire

The Sheldon Law Firm

17804 St. Lucia Isle Drive

Tampa, FL 33647

813.986.7580

(f) 813.986.7489

(Admitted in Fl., MD, D.C., and Pa.)

[email protected]

http://www.SheldonLawFirm.com

Disclaimer: This posting does not and is not intended to constitute legal advice. It is not confidential, nor is it privileged, and it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Please consult with an attorney for advice specific to the facts of your case.