Category Archives: Criminal
How Florida’s Rape Shield Law Affects Sex Crimes Cases
If you were arrested for a sex crime in Florida, you probably assume you can present any and all evidence at trial to defend yourself. Much of the information you want to show in court may be intended to refute the accuser’s allegations and cast doubt upon his or her claims. For the most… Read More »
DeSantis Proposing to Expand “Stand Your Ground” in Florida
Florida’s “stand your ground” law, which serves as a self-defense claim to murder charges, has been the focus of controversy for decades. However, Gov. Ron DeSantis renewed the debate by announcing a series of proposals that would expand the statute in response to the riots, looting, and incidents of civil unrest across the US… Read More »
How Can Hearsay Affect a Florida Criminal Case?
You have probably seen how hearsay works in courtroom dramas on TV or in movies; though what you saw was a fictional account, you have a general understanding of how the rule works. Under the Florida Evidence Code, hearsay is statement or conduct by a person meant as a form of communication. A witness… Read More »
What Does “Intent” Mean in a Florida Criminal Case?
If you have been arrested for committing a crime in Florida, you probably assume that the prosecuting attorney will focus on the specific acts that constitute a violation of the law. You do not expect that your state of mind could play an important role in your case, so it may come as a… Read More »
Your Guide to Handling Encounters with Florida Police
In general, there are three types of encounters where you may need to interact with police: Officers approach you in public; They seek you out in a private place like your home or business; or, Police stop you while in a car. While you may not realize it, you do have civil rights that… Read More »
Answers to Your Questions About Florida’s Implied Consent Statute
It is well-known to most Florida motorists that the penalties for drunk driving are severe, but you may not be as familiar with a crime closely associated with state DUI laws: Violation of Florida’s implied consent statute. Often termed a scenario of “refusal to blow,” you could face serious criminal charges for not complying… Read More »
What is the Difference Between Federal and Florida Criminal Courts?
Amid the confusion and chaos that ensues when you are arrested for a crime in Florida, you may not focus on whether you will be facing the charges in state or federal court. As you worry about the potential punishment for a conviction, such as fines, imprisonment, and other penalties, you are probably not… Read More »
Three Degrees of Homicide in Florida
Murder is the most serious crime a person can commit in Florida and anywhere in the US, but many people do not realize that there are many different offenses that fall into this category depending on the underlying circumstances. The Homicide Chapter 782 of the Florida Criminal Code includes specific descriptions of the crimes,… Read More »
When Is It a Crime to Text and Drive in Florida?
More than a year after it became effective, most motorists are well-aware of the implications for violating the Florida Ban on Texting While Driving Law. To many, receiving a noncriminal traffic citation is not a big deal. You pay the ticket, accept the consequences, and do your best to avoid making the same mistake… Read More »
Myths About Pre-Arrest Investigations in Florida Criminal Cases
Even if you are not usually a suspicious person, your senses may be able to pick up on the situation when law enforcement is conducting a pre-arrest investigation of your interests. You might have noticed someone following you, someone you know eluded to police involvement, or you received threats about reporting you to officials…. Read More »