The COVID-19 pandemic has caused state governments across the country to take several measures to limit the spread of the virus. One such measure is the discretionary early release of inmates from state jails and prisons, which are considered hot spots for the virus. 

If you are one of the inmates who have been released early due to the pandemic, it is important to understand that you might not be completely off the hook yet. There are many reasons why you still need the assistance of a Miami criminal defense attorney. 

Why You Need a Criminal Defense Lawyer

Charges Might Not Have Been Dropped

First and foremost, an early release does not necessarily mean that the charges against you have been dropped altogether. Depending on the seriousness of the charges against you, your criminal record, and a number of other factors, the state might still decide to pursue the case against you once the pandemic is over. If and when they do, you certainly need a capable Miami criminal defense lawyer by your side. 

The Need for Compliance with Release Conditions

In most cases, the inmates who are being released are required to comply with a number of terms and conditions. For instance, back in April, 18 inmates were released early in Miami – Dade County due to the coronavirus outbreak. All of them were told that they must report to the Florida Department of Probation on the very next day of their release. They were also ordered to serve a term of community supervision. 

Such measures are taken to make sure that the inmates who are released early do not undermine the safety of ordinary people in any way. Moreover, the terms and conditions of early release are determined on a case-by-case basis. So, in your case, depending on your criminal record and various other factors, the release conditions might be quite stringent. If you fail to comply with them, you could be in trouble. So, it is a good idea to seek the advice of an experienced Miami criminal defense attorney who can tell you what you can and cannot do, as per the terms of your release. 

The Possibility of an Expungement

Even if you do not have any conditions to comply with, the very fact that you have a criminal record can make it difficult for you to rent a place, get a job, or get approved for a loan. The best way to wipe your record clean and make a fresh start in your life is through an expungement. 

A qualified Miami criminal defense attorney can tell you whether you qualify for an expungement. If you do, they can have your record formally sealed or expunged. 

Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer in Miami

If you have been released early or slated to be released due to the COVID-19 pandemic, you might still need the counsel of a skilled Miami criminal defense lawyer for the aforementioned reasons. 

Chad Piotrowski, who is the founder of Piotrowski Law, is one of the most successful criminal defense attorneys in Florida. Having served as a state prosecutor in the past, Piotrowski is well versed with the tactics that are commonly used by the prosecution to secure a conviction. He can prepare the necessary counter-arguments, defend your interests aggressively, and try to have the charges against you dropped or reduced to the extent possible. 

If you want to know how Chad Piotrowski can help you, call Piotrowski Law today at 305-912-5901 or fill out this form to schedule an appointment.