How Being Under the Influence of Drugs May Impact Charges for Violent Crimes

A person who commits a violent crime while under the influence of drugs – or any controlled substance – may be subject to a variety of criminal charges and penalties depending on the nature of the alleged acts. Florida laws governing assault, theft, controlled substances, the use of firearms, and many other laws may factor into the prosecution. Intoxication may …

Denial and Revocation of Bonds in Florida

In the state of Florida, denial of jail bail bond is not uncommon. Any individual facing charges that involve a dangerous crime, life felony or capital felony will be unable to seek bail. This is designed to protect the community and public at large from potentially dangerous or threatening criminals. Additionally, anyone who fails to register as a sex offender, …

Marijuana Cultivation in Florida: Factors that Impact the Severity of Charges

Drug crimes – including cultivating or growing marijuana – violate Florida’s state laws as well as federal laws. A felony conviction on charges of cultivating cannabis/marijuana can result in serious penalties such as jail time and fines. The state has established minimum sentencing guidelines in drug crimes. Some factors will impact – and in some cases heighten – drug charges. …

Rules, Impact and Consequences of Restraining Orders

Restraining orders in Florida can be issued under a number of circumstances, including following violent actions. Victims of crimes or those who feel threatened may obtain one. The presence of a current or previous restraining order may even appear on your criminal history, and violation of the order can result in criminal charges. Who can obtain restraining orders in Florida? …

Probation in Florida: Learn the Rules of Probation, Learn Your Rights

Probation in Florida is a punishment that may help an offender to avoid jail time or to serve less time, when used in conjunction with it. The punishment aspect of this penalty is the adherence to certain terms and sometimes a probation officer’s supervision. It’s also a way to monitor the actions of someone on probation in South Florida. So …

Misdemeanor vs. Felony Shoplifting in Florida: Learn Your Rights

Shoplifting in Florida penalties depend on whether the person was a first-time offender or a repeat offender. It is also based on the amount of merchandise taken and if there were other factors involved in the Miami Beach crime, such as the use of a weapon or violence. Especially if weapons or violence were part of the charge, theft attorneys …

Indecent Exposure: What It Is and How It’s Punished

Charged with indecent exposure? You could face steep penalties, including jail time and fines. Related sex crimes may carry steeper penalties and require registration as a sexual offender. What is considered indecent exposure? Most people think of the term “flashing,” which describes someone exposing his or her private parts for his or her own sexual gratification and/or to elicit a …

Florida Statutory Rape Laws

Unlike rape, which is always considered to be non consensual intercourse, statutory rape is a charge that can stem from non consensual or consensual intercourse with a minor. In other words, it doesn’t matter if the minor has given permission; it is against the law to have intercourse with someone under the age of 18. Exceptions to Age of Consent …

Child Pornography Charges: Laws, Penalties & What to Expect

A child pornography charge can result in punishment that significantly alters an individual’s life. Even an accusation can have long-lasting implications on the individual’s reputation, so if you stand accused, familiarize yourself with applicable laws and what to expect during the investigation and legal process. What constitutes child pornography in Florida? According to Florida Statute §847.001(3), child pornography is “any …

License Suspension Hearings: Challenging Your Suspension after a DUI

In the state of Florida, a first offense for DUI will mean an automatic six-month (or longer) suspension of your driver’s license as detailed in Florida Statute §322.2615. From the time your license is suspended, you have exactly 10 days to request a license suspension hearing to fight the suspension. DUI-Related Driver’s License Suspensions in Florida In Florida, if you …