Information for Current Clients

If The Rodriguez Law Office already represents you, this page collects the practical information clients ask about most: how to reach us, how to prepare for court, and how to protect your case while it is pending. When in doubt, call (863) 774-4556 — a receptionist answers 24/7 and Attorney Rodriguez, Board Certified in Criminal Trial Law by The Florida Bar, handles your case personally.

Legally reviewed by Tonmiel Rodriguez, Board Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer — last reviewed June 2026.

How do I reach my attorney?

• Phone: (863) 774-4556 — receptionist available 24/7; urgent matters (new arrest, violation allegation, missed court date) say so up front.
• Message: use the contact form for non-urgent updates and documents.
• Office: 690 E Davidson St, Bartow, FL 33830 — Mon–Fri: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM, By Appointment Only; Sat & Sun: Closed.

How should I prepare for a court date?

• Confirm the time and location with us the week before. Most Polk County cases are heard at the Polk County Courthouse, 255 N. Broadway Ave., Bartow; some county-court matters are heard at the Northeast Polk Government Center in Lake Alfred or the Lakeland branch courthouse.
• Arrive at least 30 minutes early. Courthouse security screening takes time, and judges notice lateness. Bring a photo ID.
• Dress as if for a job interview. Collared shirt or blouse, long pants or equivalent; no shorts, tank tops, hats, or clothing with slogans.
• Phones off inside the courtroom. Do not bring weapons, even with a permit — they are not allowed in the courthouse.
• Do not speak about your case in hallways, elevators, or the gallery. Anyone nearby may be a witness, juror, or prosecutor.
• Know where your hearing fits. Our guide to the Florida criminal process explains each stage from first appearance to trial, and our what-to-expect guide covers the early stages of a case.

How do I protect my case while it is pending?

• Follow every release condition exactly — curfews, check-ins, alcohol or drug conditions, and especially no-contact orders. A no-contact order stays in force until a judge changes it, even if the other person reaches out to you first. Responding can mean a new charge and revoked bond.
• Stay off social media about anything case-related. Posts, photos, and messages are routinely used as evidence. Do not delete existing posts either — that can be worse; just stop posting and tell us about anything that worries you.
• Do not discuss the case with anyone but us — not cellmates, not on recorded jail calls, not with the alleged victim, not with co-defendants.
• If police or investigators contact you, be polite, give your name, and say your lawyer will respond. Then call us immediately.
• Tell us about changes fast: new address or phone, new arrest or ticket anywhere, problems with probation or pretrial services, or a missed appointment. Early notice gives us options; surprises in court do not.

What documents and information help my defense?

Start gathering anything relevant and bring it to your next appointment: names and contact information for possible witnesses, photos or videos, text and call records, receipts, medical records, employment letters, and certificates from any classes or treatment you have started. If you are unsure whether something matters, bring it anyway — let us decide. Answers to other common questions are on our FAQ page.

Hablamos Español — consultations and all communication with our office are available in Spanish.