Category Archives: Florida’s Proposed Laws
Will Accused Claim Rights Under Florida’s “Stand Your Ground” Defense?
Though his attorney says it is too early to determine a proper strategy for defending his client in a recent shooting case, the circumstances indicate that Florida’s “Stand Your Ground” defense may be a solid option. The Sun Sentinel reported on the matter in an August 13, 2018 article, in which the defendant was… Read More »
How Do Florida Criminal Charges Affect Immigration Proceedings?
If you are an immigrant working through the naturalization process in the US lawfully, you are probably aware of the severe implications if you are arrested for a crime. Even if you are legally present in the country, you may be denied citizenship. Undocumented individuals may be subject to removal, i.e., deportation. If you… Read More »
Recent US Supreme Court Ruling Expands Your Rights In A Florida Criminal Case
Though you may have heard the news or read the story at ABC Local 10 News, it is important to fully understand the implications of a recent opinion from the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS). In short, the court’s decision expands your constitutional right to privacy if you are charged with a… Read More »
Governor Scott Signs Bill On Adult Civil Citation Program In Florida
In the wake of the Parkland, FL shootings, Governor Rick Scott signed highly publicized bills on gun control and making threats to kill a Second Degree felony; one that did not get much attention in the news is a measure that authorizes the adult civil citation program. Tallahassee’s WCTV Eyewitness News reported on March… Read More »
Florida Lawmakers Pass Some Gun Control Measures, Reject Others After Parkland Shooting
In the wake of the shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, Florida lawmakers made headlines across the US by passing certain measures related to gun control. The Tampa Bay Times reported on March 5, 2018 that the bills include a ban on bump stocks, a voluntary program to arm some… Read More »
Florida Lawmakers To Consider Harsher Enforcement For Texting And Driving
Florida could soon join many other states in the US if lawmakers passed a bill that includes harsher penalties and stricter enforcement methods for motorists who text while driving. ABC News WFTV Channel 9 reported on the measure, which has cleared two Senate committees and is moving forward to the full legislature in the… Read More »
Restoration Of Voting Rights After Felony Conviction In Florida
A controversial area of Florida law is once again in the spotlight, as proponents of a bill that restores felon voting rights made it through the last hurdle necessary to address the issue via a constitutional amendment. The Orlando Sentinel reported that Floridians for Fair Democracy gathered the number of signatures necessary to place… Read More »
What Does The Future Hold For Mandatory Minimum Sentencing In Florida?
Controversy has surrounded Florida’s criminal justice system for a few years, especially the mandatory minimum sentencing structure that does not allow a judge to use discretion when issuing penalties. There are only a few exceptions to mandatory minimums for designated crimes, such as the downward departure process that is extremely complex. Changes may be… Read More »
Fugitives with Active Arrest Warrants Not Welcome in Florida Shelters
A Florida sheriff created a firestorm on social media when he tweeted on September 6, 2017 that fugitives would be arrested on site if they attempted to find a safe harbor from Hurricane Irma at one of the area’s designated shelters. According to the Miami Herald, the sheriff promised that anyone with an active… Read More »
Florida Legislature Considering Two Bills for Teen Criminal Offenders
Most legislators and law enforcement officials would agree that Florida should dedicate more effort to assist juveniles who commit crimes. At times, it makes sense from a policy standpoint to help them avoid a permanent criminal record and move on to a brighter future. However, there is some difference of opinion over how the… Read More »