My question involves criminal law for the state of: FLORIDA
I live in Marion County Florida and was falsely accused of battery on husband. We shared homestead while going through a very difficult divorce. Husb and brother are the witnesses who state that I pushed husband.
We all had a couple of beers.
My public defender states since there are two witnesses and that there was alcohol involved, that I should make plea of guilty. Public defender states brother is going to say that he has seen me drunk several times in the past and that would be considered in court as what he says would be "Common Knowledge"???? It can not be considered as "here-say." ???
Public Defender also states that I can not bring up how he threatened me the day before, stating he was going to make sure that I would get nothing from the Divorce and also told me that it would be all over soon.
We also had a Divorce conference with Divorce Judge the day before, where I made a motion for temporary support - my husband was upset about this. I am unemployed seeking work.
I can not understand how this is "here-say" and can not be asked to husband on the stand, by public defender. I also can not understand how his brother, who he supports financially, can make a statement that is allowable, stating to jury that I have alcohol problem. (I believe that to be here-say).
Jury selection this week. Then Trial.
Also... I am wondering if any one knows how long from Jury Selection, Is the Trial set (in Marion County, FL Criminal Courts). ?
I am trying to borrow money for consultation with a private attorney.

