Legal Question in Criminal Law in Florida

Automatic search of rental cars

While we were on vacation, my husband and I were stopped for speeding while driving a rental car that my mother had gotten for our use. The officer stated that since it was a rental car they did not need permission to search it. He found 20 grams of pot that my husband (the passenger)had under his seat. We were arrested and given a court date for later in the month. We live 1100 miles away in NH. Trying to figure what the best course of action would be. Is it possible to get the court date moved up so we wouldn't to have to fly back down later and if so should we plead guilty or no contest. Also need to know what the usual sentence\fine is for this. Neither of us has any kind of criminal record, if that has any bearing.


Asked on 3/12/06, 10:53 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
W.F. ''Casey' Ebsary Law Office of W.F. Casey Ebsary, Jr.

Re: Automatic search of rental cars

There is no such exception to the law.

Please call me to discuss.

W.F. Casey Ebsary, Jr.

Attorney and Counselor at Law

112 South Magnolia Avenue

Tampa, Florida 33606

813.222.2220 Voice

813.225.0202 Facsimile and Data

www.centrallaw.com

Read more
Answered on 3/13/06, 12:22 am
Valerie Masters Valerie Masters, P.A.

Re: Automatic search of rental cars

I have never heard of a rental car law. You probably should hire a lawyer, file a motion to suppress and hopefully get the pot thrown out. Regardless someone has to represent you at these hearings. Please call me if I can help.

Read more
Answered on 3/13/06, 12:08 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Criminal Law questions and answers in Florida