Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Federal vs. State Criminal Charges: Key Differences Every Defendant Should Understand
One of the most important and misunderstood issues in criminal cases is who is bringing the charges. You can be charged under either state or federal law, depending on the crime you’re accused of committing. Both state and federal charges come with serious consequences. They also operate under very different rules. Understanding these differences… Read More »
The Impact of Body-Worn Camera Footage in Florida Criminal Cases
Body-worn cameras (or bodycams) are now a basic element of law enforcement in Florida. Police departments use them during traffic stops and arrests. Prosecutors use them to build cases against defendants. They provide “objective” evidence concerning what happened. While this evidence can be powerful, it doesn’t always tell the whole story. Understanding how bodycam… Read More »
When Your Social Media Posts Can Trigger a Police Investigation
In today’s world, social media has become a constant part of our daily lives. We share photos, opinions, frustrations, jokes, and other memories with friends and family. But those posts are not always as private as we think. In Florida, law enforcement agencies routinely monitor and review social media accounts during criminal investigations. In… Read More »
Probation Violation in Florida: What Every Defendant Needs to Know
For many people, probation offers a second chance. Instead of serving a jail or prison sentence, you’re allowed to remain in the community under certain conditions. But probation in Florida comes with strict rules–and even a small misstep can be treated as a violation. When that happens, the consequences can be serious and swift…. Read More »
Florida’s Seizure & Forfeiture Laws: What Happens to Your Property When You Are Charged
When someone is charged with a crime in Florida, the legal consequences are often the first concern. But what many folks don’t realize is that criminal charges can also put their money, vehicle, home, or other property at risk. Under Florida and federal law, the government may seize and seek forfeiture of property it… Read More »
Felony Drug Trafficking Charges in Florida: How Counts Are Defined and What It Means for Your Case
Drug charges in Florida range widely in severity, but drug trafficking is among the most serious. Many folks assume that trafficking means selling drugs on a large scale, but under Florida law, you can be charged with trafficking based solely on the weight of a substance–even if there is no evidence of sale, intent… Read More »
When and How the State of Florida Can Use Your Social Media Against You
Today, it’s not unusual to find folks who have social media accounts. Nearly everyone leaves a trail of digital breadcrumbs for law enforcement. This information can tell a much different story than we might realize. Law enforcement is well aware of this. In Florida (and across the country), prosecutors are increasingly relying on social… Read More »
Effective Use of Expert Witnesses During a Criminal Prosecution
When it comes to modern criminal trials, forensic science often carries an aura of certainty. Jurors have grown up watching television crime dramas. They tend to believe that DNA is irrefutable, fingerprints are unassailable, and ballistics always tell the truth. But in real life, the issues are rarely that simple. Many “scientific” methods that… Read More »
When an Arrest Turns Into a Civil Rights Claim: Understanding Section 1983 Claims in Florida
Most folks think that once criminal charges have been dropped, dismissed, or resolved, the story is over. But in some cases, what happens during your arrest can violate your constitutional rights. When police officers, jail officials, or government agencies overstep their boundaries, victims can have recourse under 42 U.S.C. § 1983. This federal law… Read More »
When a Florida Conviction Isn’t the End: Understanding Post-Conviction Relief and Appeals
Getting convicted of a crime is one of the most stressful experiences a person can face. Many folks walk away from the courtroom believing that the judgment is final and that they’re out of options. But in Florida, a conviction does not always represent the end of the process. Depending on the circumstances, appeals… Read More »
