Frequently Asked Questions
Click on the links to the left to go directly to those sections. If you have additional questions or need assistance please call the FACDL office at 1-800-369-9503 or email us at facdlinfo@facdl.org.
Advertise in the Florida Defender
Where can I find information about advertising in your quarterly publication, The Florida Defender?
A link to the Advertise In The Florida Defender section can be found on the Home Page.
Affiliate Chapters
Where can I find information about FACDLs Affiliate (local) Chapters?
A link to the FACDL Affiliate Chapter section can be found on the Home Page.
I am a member of an FACDL Affiliate (local) Chapter, does that automatically make me a member of FACDL Statewide?
No, you must apply for membership in FACDL Statewide separately. The only exception is the Palm Beach Chapter which has a co-membership requirement.
I am a member of FACDL Statewide, does that automatically make me a member of the local FACDL Affiliate Chapter?
No, you must apply for membership in your local chapter separately.
How much are membership dues for FACDL Affiliate (local) Chapters?
Dues structures for FACDL Affiliate (local) chapters vary by chapter. Please contact you local chapter directly. A listing of all 25 chapters can be found in the Affiliate Chapter section.
Amicus Assistance
Where can I find information about the FACDL Amicus Committee?
FACDL Amicus Committee guidelines and committee chair contact information is available on the Members Only page.
Association News
Where can I find the latest news about FACDL?
The FACDL News section is located on the Home Page.
Case Law
Where can I find information about the latest Case Law?
Case Law Updates can be found on the Members Only page. Case Law from 1999 to the present is available there.
Can I purchase Case Law information?
Yes, the Florida Case Law on CD (2007 Edition) is available for purchase on the bottom of the Seminars & CLEs page.
CLE Credits
Where can I find information about CLE credits for a seminar I attended or seminar materials I purchased?
Credit and posting information is available on the first few pages of the course workbook you received at the live seminar presentation or that was mailed to you if you ordered seminar materials.
How do I post my CLE credits with The Florida Bar?
CLE credits can be posted on The Florida Bar website, www.flabar.org. Please contact them directly for more information, (850) 561-5600.
How long are CLE credits valid?
CLE credits are valid for 18 months after the date of the live presentation.
Contact FACDL
How do I contact the FACDL office?
You may contact the FACDL office by:
Phone: 1-800-369-9503
Email: facdlinfo@facdl.org
Fax: (850) 385-6715
Mail: P.O. Box 1528, Tallahassee, FL 32302
Or click here to access our contact form.
Disaster Preparedness
Where can I find information about the FACDL Disaster Preparedness Plan?
Information about FACDLs Disaster Preparedness Plan can be found on the Home Page.
Exhibit at Seminars
Can my company exhibit at FACDL seminars?
Yes, companies may exhibit at most seminars. Please visit the Exhibit at an FACDL Seminar page to view fee information or to complete a form and make payment for upcoming seminars.
Expert Witnesses
Does FACDL maintain an Expert Witness list?
Yes, the Expert Witness List can be found on the Members Only page.
How can an expert witness add his/her name to the list?
To be added to the expert witness list, please call the FACDL office at 1-800-369-9503, email us at facdlinfo@facdl.org, or use our Contact Us Form.
Florida Defender Magazine
How often is the Florida Defender Magazine published?
The Florida Defender magazine is published quarterly.
I am not a member of FACDL, can I purchase a subscription to the Florida Defender magazine?
No, subscriptions to the magazine are a member benefit.
I am a Judge in a Florida court, can I purchase a subscription to the Florida Defender?
Complimentary Florida Defender magazine subscriptions are available to judges. Please contact the FACDL office at 1-800-369-9503, facdlinfo@facdl.org or through our Contact Us Form.
Are Florida Defender magazine articles available on the website?
Yes, all substantive articles from 1989 to the present are available on the Members Only page. They are searchable by issue, topic and author.
Listserves (DefenderNet & DefenderNet Federal)
What are the FACDL Listserves?
The listserves are incredible networking tools. Members can post questions to each other by simply sending an email to the listserve email address. All members subscribed to the listserve will receive the email and may respond to it. FACDL currently has two listserves; DefenderNet for general topics and DefenderNet Federal for federal topics.
How do I subscribe to the FACDL Listserves?
Log on to the Members Only section and click on the link to either DefenderNet or DefenderNet Federal. Please read the protocol carefully and continue on to the subscription page. Complete the section titled “Subscribing to DefenderNet (or DefenderNet Federal) and click the “subscribe” button. You will receive a confirmation email after your subscription has been approved.
How do I post a question on the FACDL Listserves?
After you have subscribed to the listserve (See “How do I subscribe to the FACDL Listserves?” above) you will receive an email verifying your subscription. That email will contain the email address to which you should post your question. When you send an email to the list, you will also receive it as confirmation that it has been sent.
How do I unsubscribe from the FACDL Listserves?
To unsubscribe from the listserves log on to the Members Only page and click on the link for the specific listserve from which you wish to unsubscribe. Click on the link after the protocol information to go on to the listserve page. Find the section titled “Defendernet-list (or Defendernetfederal) Subscribers” and enter your email address in the second box provided and click the “Unsubscribe or edit options” button. On the next page, click the “Unsubscribe” button. You will receive a confirmation email.
Can I stop my listserve subscription, then restart it if I'm going to be out of the office for an extended period of time?
Yes, log on to the Members Only page and click on the link for the specific listserve you wish to stop or re-start. Click on the link after the protocol information to go on to the listserve page. Find the section titled “Defendernet-list (or Defendernetfederal) Subscribers” and enter your email address in the second box provided and click the "Unsubscribe or edit options” button. On the next page find the section titled “Your Defendernet-list (or Defendernetfederal) Subscription Options”. In the first section, “Mail Delivery”, click on the circle in front of “Disable” and scroll down to the bottom of the page and click on the “Submit” button.
To restart your subscription follow the instructions above but, this time, click on the circle in front of "Enable”, then on the “Submit” button.
How do I access the listserve archives?
To access the listserve archives you will need your listserve password (this is different from your Members Only password).
If you have your listserve password:
Log on to the Members Only page and click on the link for the specific listserve. Click on the link after the protocol information to go on to the listserve page. Find the section titled “About Defendernet-list (or Defendernetfederal)”. Click on the link for the “Defendernet-list (or Defendernetfederal) Archives” and enter your email address and password. Archives are searchable in various ways.
If you do not have your listserve password:
See the “What is my listserve password?” below, then following the instructions above for “If you have your listserve password.”
What is my listserve password?
Your listserve password is one that you chose when you subscribed to the listserve or one that was generated by the listserve if you were subscribed by the FACDL office. To retrieve your password, log on to the Members Only page and click on the link for the specific listserve. Click on the link after the protocol information to go on to the listserve page. Find the section titled “Defendernet-list (or Defendernetfederal) Subscribers” and enter your email address in the second box provided and click the “Unsubscribe or edit options” button. On the next page find the section titled “Your Defendernet-list (or Defendernetfederal) Password”. Click on the “Email my password to me” button. You will receive your password immediately.
Member News
Where can I find recent news items about FACDL members?
A link to the Members In The News section is located on the Home Page.
How can I submit a news item about myself or another FACDL member?
To submit news items please email them to martha@facdl.org.
Membership Application
Who is eligible to apply for FACDL Membership?
Criminal Defense lawyers and Public Defenders who are members in good standing with The Florida Bar are eligible for membership. Also, law students and others who are not attorneys but whose duties contribute to the defense of criminal cases (Affiliate Members) are eligible. Membership applications are available here.
What are the benefits of FACDL Membership?
Your FACDL membership benefits include:
Subscription to our quarterly publication, The Florida Defender
Access to affordable, state-of-the-art seminars
Networking opportunities
Leadership opportunities
A strong effective voice in Tallahassee
Strike Force and Amicus Assistance
Membership Certificate
Annual Meeting of membership
FACDL Website:
DefenderNet and DefenderNet Federal Listserves
On-line membership renewal
On-line seminar registration
Seminar Materials
Expert Witness List
Motions Bank
On-line Membership Directory
Speakers Bureau
Mentor Program
Affiliate Chapter Listing
FACDL fashions & more
How do I apply for membership?
Membership applications are available on the Member Center page. You may access on-line and printable applications there.
What is a sponsor?
A sponsor is the person who will endorse the applicant. The sponsor must be a private attorney or public defender who is an active member of FACDL Statewide.
Do I have to list a sponsor on my membership application?
Yes, all applicants must list a sponsor on their application.
I do not have a sponsor. Can FACDL help me find one?
Yes, please call FACDL Headquarters at 1-800-369-9503 if you require assistance finding a sponsor.
How much are my membership dues?
Membership dues are based on year of admission to The Florida Bar and vary depending on the type of membership. View dues structure here.
How long is my membership active?
The FACDL membership year is January 1 thru December 31. Dues invoices for the next year are mailed in December.
How are membership dues payable?
Check, credit card and electronic check payments are accepted. Credit card and electronic check payments are accepted on-line thru PayPal. Credit card payments are also accepted by mail or fax but are not accepted by phone.
Will I receive confirmation of my membership application?
Yes, you will receive a letter confirming your application along with additional information about FACDL and/or upcoming events.
Membership Renewal
How do I renew my membership?
Membership renewal notices are mailed each December for the next calendar year. You may also renew your membership on the Member Center page.
How long is my membership active?
The FACDL membership year is January 1 thru December 31. Dues invoices for the next year are mailed in December.
I was a member of FACDL two years ago, but not last year, can I still renew my membership?
Yes, if you have been a member of FACDL within the last three years, you can renew your membership. If your last membership year was more than three years ago you must re-apply for membership.
I am currently a regular member but wish to become a Life Member. what do I need to do?
If you have not yet paid your regular membership dues for the calendar year please complete the Life Member application found on the Member Center page. If you have paid your regular membership dues for the calendar year please contact FACDL Headquarters at 1-800-369-9503.
Mentors
Does FACDL have a mentor program?
Yes, a list of Mentors can be found on the Mentor Program page.
I would like to be a mentor. How do I get my name listed?
To list your name as a mentor please visit the Mentor Program page to complete a Volunteer Form or click here to go directly to the form.
Mission Statement
Where can I read the FACDL Mission Statement?
The FACDL Mission Statement can be found in the front of the paper Membership Directory, in the On-line Membership Directory, on the Member Center page, on the Members Only page, or by clicking here.
Motions Bank
Does FACDL maintain a Motions Bank?
Yes, the Motions Bank is located on the Members Only page.
Can I contribute a motion to the bank?
Yes, please email word or pdf files of motions to martha@facdl.org.
PAC FAIRLAWS
Where can I find information about FACDLs Political Action Committee (PAC), FAIRLAWS?
FAIRLAWS information may be found on the Member's Only page.
Passwords
What are my username and password for the Members Only section of the website?
Your Members Only username and password are assigned by our database when you apply for membership. A membership card will be mailed to you with this informatin or you may contact the FACDL office at 1-800-369-9503, facdlinfo@facdl.org or through our Forgot Your Password? form on the Members Only page.
What is my DefenderNet (or DefenderNet Federal) Listserve (and Archive) password?
Your listserve password is one that you chose when you subscribed to the listserve or one that was generated by the listserve if you were subscribed by the FACDL office. To retrieve your password, log on to the Members Only page and click on the link for the specific listserve. Click on the link after the protocol information to go on to the listserve page. Find the section titled “Defendernet-list (or Defendernetfederal) Subscribers” and enter your email address in the second box provided and click the “Unsubscribe or edit options” button. On the next page find the section titled “Your Defendernet-list (or Defendernetfederal) Password”. Click on the “Email my password to me” button. You will receive your password immediately.
Seminar Materials
I can not attend an upcoming seminar. Can I purchase the seminar materials?
Yes, seminar material purchase information is available on the Seminars & CLEs. page. CLE credit is awarded to those who purchase the complete seminar (audio and course workbook). CLE credit is not awarded to those who purchase only the course workbook. Materials will be mailed approximately 4-6 weeks after the live presentation.
I was unable to attend a recent seminar. Can I purchase the seminar materials?
Yes, materials from most seminars are available for purchase on the Seminars & CLEs. page. They are available for purchase up to one year after the date of the live presentation. Seminars are valid for 18 months after the date of the live presentation. CLE credit is awarded to those who purchase the complete seminar (audio and course workbook). CLE credit is not awarded to those who purchase only the course workbook. Materials will be mailed approximately 4-6 weeks after the live presentation.
I registered for a seminar but can not attend. Can I receive the seminar materials instead?
Yes, please call FACDL Headquarters at 1-800-369-9503 to switch your seminar registration to seminar materials. Materials will be mailed approximately 4-6 weeks after the live presentation.
Where can I find information about CLE credits for a seminar I attended or seminar materials I purchased?
Credit and posting information is available on the first few pages of the course workbook you received at the live seminar presentation or that was mailed to you if you ordered seminar materials.
How do I post my CLE credits with The Florida Bar?
CLE credits can be posted on The Florida Bar website, www.flabar.org. Please contact them directly for more information, (850) 561-5600.
How long are CLE credits from seminar materials valid?
CLE credits from seminar materials are valid for 18 months after the date of the live presentation.
Seminars
Who may attend FACDL seminars?
FACDL members and non-members who are criminal defense lawyers as well as judges may attend any seminar. State Attorneys may attend the Criminal Law Certification Review seminar.
How many seminars does FACDL hold throughout the year?
There are 4-6 seminars each year including Death Is Different (Death Penalty), Criminal Law Certification Review (review course for attorneys taking the exam or requiring certification credits), Annual Meeting Seminar (many different topics), Showcase on Sentencing (Federal and State sentencing), Blood, Breath & Tears (DUI).
How do I register for an FACDL seminar?
On-line registration and printable registration forms are available on the Seminars & CLEs. page. Hotel information, maps and brochures are also available there.
What is the seminar registration fee?
Seminar registration fees vary by seminar. Please refer to the specific seminar on the Seminars & CLEs. page for fee information. Hotel information, maps and brochures are also available there.
How is seminar registration payable?
Check, credit card and electronic check payments are accepted. Credit card and electronic check payments are accepted on-line. Credit card payments are also accepted by mail or fax but are not accepted by phone. Check, credit card and cash are acceptable forms of payment for registrations made in person the day of the seminar.
What is the deadline for seminar registration?
Seminar pre-registration is usually available until two days prior to the seminar to allow for preparation and travel. If you are unable to register by that day, you may register in person the day of the seminar. Credit cards, checks and cash are accepted during on-site registration.
Will I receive confirmation of my seminar registration?
Yes, confirmation letters are mailed approximately two weeks before a seminar.
How do I cancel a seminar registration?
Written cancellations must be received by the cancellation deadline (check individual seminar information for cancellation dates) in order to receive a refund. There is a $25 administrative fee for all cancellations.
I registered for a seminar but can not attend. Can I receive the seminar materials instead?
Yes, please call FACDL Headquarters at 1-800-369-9503 to switch your seminar registration to seminar materials. Materials will be mailed approximately 4-6 weeks after the live presentation.
I can not attend an upcoming seminar. Can I purchase the seminar materials?
Yes, seminar material information is available on the Seminars & CLEs. page. CLE credit is awarded to those who purchase the complete seminar (audio and course workbook). CLE credit is not awarded to those who purchase only the course workbook.
I was unable to attend a recent seminar. Can I purchase the seminar materials?
Yes, materials from most seminars are available for purchase on the Seminars & CLEs. page. They are available for purchase up to one year after the date of the live presentation. Seminars are valid for 18 months after the date of the live presentation. CLE credit is awarded to those who purchase the complete seminar (audio and course workbook). CLE credit is not awarded to those who purchase only the course workbook.
Where can I find information about CLE credits for a seminar I attended or seminar materials I purchased?
Credit and posting information is available on the first few pages of the course workbook you received at the live seminar presentation or that was mailed to you if you ordered seminar materials.
How do I post my CLE credits with The Florida Bar?
CLE credits can be posted on The Florida Bar website, www.flabar.org. Please contact them directly for more information, (850) 561-5600.
How long are CLE credits valid?
CLE credits are valid for 18 months after the date of the live presentation.
Speakers Bureau
I need a speaker for an upcoming seminar. Does FACDL maintain a Speakers Bureau?
Yes, a listing of speakers is available on the Speakers Bureau page.
How do I recommend a speaker for the Speakers Bureau list?
A speaker recommendation form is available on the Speakers Bureau page or click here to go directly to the form.
Strike Force
Where can I find information about the FACDL Strike Force?
Information about the FACDL Strike Force and contact information for the Strike Force Committee Chair may be found on the Members Only page.
Website
What information is available on the FACDL website?
The Home Page is your jumping off point. There you will find…
Calendar of Events
Links to membership application and renewal
FACDL Mission Statement
Affiliate Chapter, Mentor Program, Member News, and Speakers Bureau pages
Information about exhibiting at a seminar and advertising with FACDL
FACDL news and Disaster Preparedness Plan
You will also find links to…
Member Center – read what membership in FACDL means to you, apply for membership, renew your membership, read the FACDL Mission Statement, read a list of committees and their members, see a listing of FACDL members in alphabetical order and by city.
Seminars & CLEs – get information about, and register for, upcoming seminars, get information about, and purchase, materials from previously held seminars and additional materials.
Members Only – access the many great benefits of membership, including two listserves, motions bank, magazine articles and more.
Board of Directors – get to know your board members, committee members and member services staff. See their photos and read their bios on this page.
FACDL Gear – Purchase great t-shirts, polos, and caps.
FAQ – You’re reading it right now, our Frequently Asked Questions page has all the information you’ll need to navigate the website and answer your questions.
Contact Us – email us your questions, change of address, etc.
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