Discovery in Florida is considered both a process of learning about the evidence in a case, as well as an actual collection of documents, reports, and media that the Defendant is entitled to review before a trial. Discovery is extremely important and is at the heart of any sense of fairness in the Florida criminal justice system.

After the filing of criminal charges, the Defendant may elect to participate in the process known as discovery, which will obligate the prosecution as well as the defense to follow rules controlling the production of documents and evidence. Normally the State must produce their initial discovery exhibit within 15 days of the filing of charges, however production of discovery is also considered an ongoing process, especially with regards to depositions and additional analysis and reports, which generally are not produced earl yin the case.

Discovery is the primary place where your attorney will be able to gather information to determine not only the strengths and weaknesses of the State’s case against you, but it contains information that is crucial for determining if there has been any illegality in your case, for example evidence of violation of the 4th amendment which could provide a basis for a motion to suppress evidence and possibly dismissal of your case.