Legal Question in Criminal Law in Florida

I was found indigent, but didn't use a public defender, my union appointed a lawyer to represent me. I was never convicted, but was given probation. I had my cost of supervision reduced for a few months, but I'm still struggling to pay my court fees and cost of supervision. My salary was cut in half since court and I'm now unemplyed. What can I do? Can I file paperwork with the courts that says I can't pay? I'm barely making ends meet on unemployment and I'm trying to find a job. I remember the clerk of courts saying if I don't pay they suspend my DL which I DO NOT need. My lawyer said pay what you can and leave it at that, but my P.O. says in order to terminate probation early my fees need to be paid in full and up to date. Any suggestions?


Asked on 8/06/11, 12:30 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Craig Epifanio Craig Epifanio, P.A.

Listen to your lawyer. You can usually only get off early once you have paid all financial obligations. If you just don't pay then you will be charged with violation of probation. At that hearing the judge will either find you guilty of the violation and sentence you or you can explain that you didn't have the ability to pay. One final suggestion is to do community service for your fines if at all possible.

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Answered on 8/08/11, 12:19 pm


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