The 6th Amendment of the United States Constitution guarantees all criminal defendants “the right to a public trial without unnecessary delay.” Unfortunately, the framers never had to factor in how a global pandemic might affect the disposition of such rights.
While the Florida courts continue to monitor COVID-19 case data provided by the Florida Department of Health and the CDC, East Lake Law Firm also strives to provide dedicated criminal defense representation to residents of Fort Pierce, FL, with minimal interruption.
As of September 2021, nearly half of the state’s population has been partially or fully vaccinated against the COVID-19 virus. Previous mandates on the wearing of masks and social distancing in court proceedings have also been relaxed for individuals who are fully vaccinated. East Lake Law Firm understands that those who have yet to be vaccinated due to personal choice or medical restrictions, or who remain leery about entering public places such as a courtroom, may have concerns about whether their criminal defense proceedings can still take place in a timely manner. We are happy to assure you that they can.
East Lake Law Firm has the capability to conduct criminal court proceedings remotely via online video or audio conferencing using:
- Zoom
- GoToMeeting
- FaceTime
- WebEx
- Google Meet
- RingCentral
- Skype
Testimonies may also be pre-recorded in our office in Fort Pierce, FL, or at a location of your choosing.
A criminal defendant’s written consent is required to conduct remote criminal proceedings. Any notaries and other persons qualified to administer an oath in the State of Florida may swear a witness remotely by audio-video communication technology from a location within the State of Florida. If a witness is not located within the State of Florida, they may consent to being put on oath via audio-video communication technology by a person qualified to administer an oath in the State of Florida.
East Lake Law Firm understands that all Floridians, criminal defendants included, wish to protect themselves and their families during this uncertain time. We will do everything within the law to ensure that your right to a speedy trial is upheld. Our criminal defense attorneys can attend any state, local, or Federal court on your behalf, and present your defense with the same assertiveness and determination as we would if you were physically there. Call our office in Fort Pierce, FL, at (772) 801-3151 with any questions.
