Help! I’ve Been Arrested. Now What?

Get Help After an Arrest in Jacksonville & North Florida — James Davis Defense

Being arrested is overwhelming. Whether you were taken to jail or released with a Notice to Appear, the steps taken immediately after an arrest can significantly affect your case, your freedom, and your future.

James Davis provides experienced criminal defense representation for individuals who have been arrested in Jacksonville and throughout North Florida. He helps clients understand what happens next, what decisions matter most, and how early defense can protect their rights.

James Davis is a Jacksonville criminal defense attorney who personally handles every case he accepts. With decades of courtroom experience, he understands how quickly cases move after an arrest and how early intervention can influence bond, charging decisions, and case outcomes.

Call (904) 358-0420 anytime — calls are accepted 24/7

CALL (904) 358-0420

What Happens After an Arrest in Florida?

After an arrest, several things typically occur in a short period of time:

Arrest or Notice to Appear (NTA): You may be taken to jail or released with a Notice to Appear. An NTA is still an arrest and should not be ignored.
First Appearance: If taken into custody, you generally appear before a judge within 24 hours, where bond and release conditions are set.
Prosecutor Review: The State Attorney’s Office begins reviewing the case and may decide whether to file formal charges.
Evidence Review: Police reports, witness statements, and other evidence are evaluated to determine how the case proceeds.
Charging Decision: If charges are filed, the case becomes an active prosecution.

Failing to act early can limit options. Early legal representation allows issues to be identified and addressed before a case escalates.

The First Decisions After an Arrest Can Shape Your Case

An arrest does not always mean charges have been filed, but critical decisions are often made shortly after an arrest based on police reports and initial evidence. Without legal representation, prosecutors may rely solely on law enforcement’s version of events.

James Davis personally handles every case from the earliest stages possible. By reviewing the facts, identifying legal issues, and communicating with the State Attorney’s Office early, he works to protect his clients’ rights and pursue the best possible outcome — whether that involves reduced charges, alternative resolutions, or avoiding formal charges altogether when possible.

Schedule a FREE Consultation

CALL (904) 358-0420

When your freedom is on the line, you need defense — not judgment. James Davis personally handles every case with focused, experienced criminal defense representation.
DEFENDING, NOT JUDGING™

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 101 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   William Brickse 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. James Davis is an excellent lawyer who makes you feel comfortable as he guides you through  the court process.  He’s a man of integrity, intelligence and was highly recommended to me.  Anna Beyer was also great in his office.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Dorothy Howard 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. James and Anna are AMAZING!!! They're both super nice, personable, and fantastic at what they do! Fairly priced and James works with you on payments. Did I mention FANTASTIC at what they do? James got the charges completely dropped for both my husband and I, no parole, no probation, no court fees, we didn't even have to appear at either of our hearings! We just paid him, and he completely took care of us worry free! Thank you James & Anna!!!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Breanna Palmer 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I needed council rather quickly and James and his assistant Anna delivered and got an amazing outcome!!! 👏 highly recommend!!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   kei 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I just want to say THANK YOU A MILLION TIMES to James. I had so much anxiety surrounding my case and he was able to knock it out of the park 10000000/10 I would definitely recommend his services to anyone in need. Thank you so much to Ana as well for her friendliness, kindness and knowledge. I really appreciate you both.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Josh London 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My experience with Mr. Davis has been absolutely great.  He's help me with the legal system more than once and has always given me the best outcome possible. He's very reasonable in price. He's a man of his word and he loves his job. Most importantly, he's going to be the best representation for you when it comes to legal terms. He also has a wonderful assistant, Anna.  She's very helpful and will always help you when needed. I highly recommend this law firm.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Sanjay Lamsal 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had an excellent experience working with James Davis. From start to finish, he was extremely pleasant to work with and always kept my best interests at the forefront. James handled every court date on my behalf, which saved me so much time and stress.
He kept me informed and updated every step of the way, so I always knew what was happening with my case. Thanks to his expertise and dedication, my case was ultimately dropped — the best possible outcome.
I never had to deal with any of the usual headaches of navigating the legal system, and I truly appreciate how smoothly he made the entire process. I highly recommend James Davis to anyone looking for a knowledgeable, professional, and reliable attorney.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Robert McCarthy 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I recently called Mr Davis's office to see if they could help with a Drivers License issue that they could help me with. I spoke with Ms. Anna Beyer the Office Manager, she took my information and said she would do some research and get back with me later in that day or the next day.  The next day she called me back and gave me all the information and emailed the forms that I needed to send to the Florida  DMV.  She was Professional and personable. She also did not charge for her services. I would highly reccomend the Law Office should you the services of a criminal attorney.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   G Seymour 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. James takes the time to help in any situation.  He is a great defense lawyer and I have recommended him to others and will continue to do so.  I appreciate the time he takes to help in my family’s matter and I truly appreciate him.  Thanks James and thanks Anna for assisting as well.   Thanks, Gina
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Elizabeth Urrea 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Having James and Anna work on my case was truly Such a blessing. With barely any time to hire an attorney, they They were quick to pick up my case and attend court for me the next day. Anna James’ Assistant was so kind and so communicative the entire process. James is very professional and also down to earth, Funny, kind of guy he makes it really easy to work with And be open with him. After he spoke with the prosecutor, my case was Very easily resolved And charges dropped, Something I could have only hoped for, but James made possible. I am forever grateful for these people and couldn’t recommend more!!