Category Archives: Criminal
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 »
What Happens After a Criminal Conviction in Florida? Understanding the Appeals Process
If you’ve been convicted of a crime in Florida, it can feel like the end of the road. The judge’s sentence can leave you facing prison time, steep fines, probation, and have lasting consequences on your career and reputation. But in many cases, a conviction is not the end of the road. Florida law… Read More »
Probation Violations in Florida: Risks, Defenses, and How to Protect Your Rights
The courts view probation as a second chance. It’s an opportunity to avoid prison while serving a sentence in the community. But probation also comes with strict conditions, and even minor missteps can put your freedom at risk. In Florida, a probation violation is taken very seriously and can result in harsh penalties, including… Read More »
Federal Versus State Criminal Charges: What’s the Difference and Why It Matters
Have you been arrested or charged with a crime in Florida? If so, one of the first questions you may have to answer is whether your case will be prosecuted in state court or federal court. While both systems enforce criminal laws, there are important differences in procedures, penalties, and resources. Understanding the differences… Read More »
White Collar Crimes in Florida: Charges, Investigation, and Defense Strategies
White-collar crime is a general term that refers to non-violent offenses usually committed for financial gain. In Florida, these cases can involve complex financial transactions, paper trails, and lengthy investigations by either the state or federal authorities. While these crimes are non-violent, the consequences can be serious. Often, they include prison time, steep fines,… Read More »
