The use of banned performance-enhancing drugs – otherwise known as doping or juicing – is a hot topic in professional sports. Recent news events in South Florida have highlighted the potential consequences of using and selling banned substances such as anabolic steroids and other popular drugs. On related topic, if your looking for legal help for accident or injury related …
What to Expect While on Probation in Florida
An individual who is placed on probation will be expected to abide by certain rules and conditions for the duration of the probationary period. Some rules of probation are established through Florida criminal laws, while the court dictates others. An Overview of the Expectations of Probation Those who are on probation can expect to perform certain duties on a regularly …
How to Appeal Convictions: Time Limits and Conditions of Appeals
Defendants found guilty and convicted of a crime may seek an appeal of the conviction or the sentence. This is applicable when a defendant or defense counsel believes an error was made during the trial. Florida laws state that while defendants have the right to appeal, the process must adhere to certain terms and conditions. The appeal must be made …
Probation vs. Parole: Understanding the Differences Under Florida Law
While both probation and parole are related to the conviction of a crime, they are two distinct entities under Florida criminal law. Probation is a form of punishment that does not involve incarceration but is enacted by the state for a designated period of time. Parole applies to an early release from incarceration under a specific set of circumstances. Violations …
Using Drugs During Probation is Considered a Violation: Penalties and Defense
A person who is on probation is expected to follow certain terms established by the state and, in some cases, the county. Standard terms of probation include abstaining from drugs and alcohol, and specifically illegal controlled substances. Those who test positive for the use of a controlled substance during probation commit a technical violation and are subject to additional penalties …
Penalties for Resisting Arrest with Violence Include Imprisonment and Fines
A person accused of using violence to resist an officer will be charged with a third-degree felony in Florida. This is true if the officer was attempting to make an arrest or if the suspect’s actions hindered any other duties the officer was carrying out. Penalties for resisting an arrest with violence can include monetary fines and jail time. Additionally, …
Penalties for Resisting Arrest Without Violence Can Include Jail Time and Fines
Resisting an officer – or resisting arrest – is a crime in Florida. This is true even in cases where the accused acts without violence and causes no injuries. It is considered an act of “obstruction” and is charged as a first-degree misdemeanor. The penalties for conviction can include jail time and monetary fines. How Florida Criminal Laws Define Resisting …
Child Abuse in Florida: Types of Actions that Warrant Charges
There were over 50,000 victims of child abuse and neglect in Florida in 2010, according to “Child Maltreatment 2010” from the Children’s Bureau, a group under the larger umbrella groups of Administration for Children and Families and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Each case is different, but they generally fall under one of three categories of abuse …
Pleading Insanity to a Charge
When a person is charged with a crime, he or she can plead not guilty and then it will be up to the prosecutor to prove otherwise. The prosecutor must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant did commit the crime. However, some people will admit they committed the crime, but plead insanity. A criminal defense lawyer may help …
Pleading Self-Defense to a Charge
Some crimes are committed through self-defense. Self-defense laws are broad in Florida. Learn more about pleading self-defense when accused of a crime in Miami.