CLOSURE NOTICE: All Offices of the State Attorney in the First Judicial Circuit are closed January 21 and January 22. This is for the counties of Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa and Walton. Our offices will resume regular operations on Thursday, January 23rd. Please stay safe and warm in this snowy weather.

Resources

Information about your rights, victim support and the legal process.

Quick Answers

Contact Law Enforcement:

If you haven’t already, report the crime to your local law enforcement agency. They will investigate and may refer the case to the State Attorney’s Office.

Victim Assistance Program:

The State Attorney’s Office provides a Victim Assistance Program to guide you through the legal process. This includes:

  • Explaining your rights as a victim.
  • Providing updates on your case.
  • Offering emotional support and referrals for counseling or other services.

Cooperation with Prosecutors:

  • After an arrest, the State Attorney’s Office may contact you for a statement or to discuss the case.
  • Be prepared to share any evidence or information that could assist in prosecuting the case.

Victim Rights:

  • You have the right to be informed, present, and heard during court proceedings.
  • Florida’s Marsy’s Law protects your rights as a victim.

Restitution and Compensation:

  • You may be eligible for restitution (financial compensation) if the offender is convicted.
  • The State Attorney’s Office can help connect you with the Florida Crime Victims’ Compensation Program for expenses like medical bills, counseling, or lost wages.

Understand the Charges:

You will be informed of the charges against you during your first appearance hearing, typically within 24 hours of arrest.

Legal Representation:

  • If you cannot afford an attorney, the court will appoint a public defender to represent you.
  • If you hire a private attorney, they will coordinate with the State Attorney’s Office regarding your case.

Court Process:

  • Your case will proceed through pre-trial hearings, where evidence is reviewed and plea options may be discussed.
  • If no plea agreement is reached, your case may go to trial.

State Attorney’s Role:

The State Attorney’s Office is responsible for prosecuting criminal cases. Prosecutors will review evidence, interview witnesses, and decide how to proceed with your case.

Pre-Trial Release or Bond:

Depending on the nature of the charges and your criminal history, you may be released on bond or other conditions. Ensure you comply with all terms to avoid additional penalties.

Participation in Programs:

Depending on the offense and your eligibility, you may be referred to a diversion program, such as pre-trial intervention or drug court, which could lead to charges being dismissed upon successful completion.

Florida citizens have a constitutional and statutory right to access public records under Article I, Section 24 of the Florida Constitution and Chapter 119 of the Florida Statutes (the “Public Records Act”). 

Request Records

The Criminal Justice System

Learn how the criminal justice system works to hold bad actors accountable for their crimes.

Victim Assistance Program

Find assistance and self-help to guide you through each stage of the criminal justice process.

Deferred Prosecution

For persons cited for possession of alcohol by a person under the age of 21 in Okaloosa or Walton Counties.

Brochures/Forms

Links

 

Office Locations

Street Address:
190 W. Government St.
Pensacola, FL 32501

Phone:
850-595-4200

Hours:
M-F 8a-5p

Street Address:
1800 St. Marys Ave.
Pensacola, FL 32501

Phone:
(850)595-3750

Hours:
M-F 8a-5p

Street Address:
6495 Caroline Street, Suite S
Second Floor
Milton, FL 32570

Phone:
(850)981-5500

Hours:
M-F 8a-5p

Street Address:
151 Cedar Ave.
Crestview, FL 32536

Phone:
(850)689-5620

Hours:
M-F 8a-5p

Street Address:
1804 Lewis Turner Blvd. Suite 100
Ft. Walton Beach, FL 32547

Phone:
(850)651-7260

Hours:
M-F 8a-5p

Street Address:
524 East Highway 90
DeFuniak Springs, FL 32435

Phone:
(850)892-8080

Hours:
M-F 8a-5p

Gulf Coast Kid’s House
3401 N 12th Ave.
Pensacola, FL 32503
(850)595-5800
gulfcoastkidshouse.org

Santa Rosa Kid’s House
5643 Stewart St.
Milton, FL 32570
(850)983-4453
srkidshouse.org

Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center
401 McEwen Drive
Niceville, FL 32578
(850)833-9237 ext.225
eccac.org

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