Arson is a serious criminal offense that can cause irreversible harm to people, property and communities. Whether it involves setting fire to a building, a vehicle or a vacant lot, arson is investigated and prosecuted with close attention to the circumstances and...
Criminal Defense
How the Controlled Substances Act affects drug possession cases
If you are arrested for drug possession, there are a few factors that can ultimately affect how you are charged and what penalties you face -- as well as the direction of your defense. One of the most crucial factors is the severity of the drugs in your possession...
Are police officers allowed to enter your house?
Do not assume that you must allow police officers into your home. As an American citizen, you do have a right to privacy in your own house. You can decide who is allowed to enter your property. That said, it is important to be aware of the different ways that the...
Can improper police procedure dismiss a DUI case?
A DUI arrest is not always a straightforward process. Police officers are expected to follow specific procedures, and deviations from these protocols can have significant legal ramifications. Could one of these errors invalidate your arrest and lead to a dismissal?...
4 ways to strengthen an assault defense strategy
Individuals facing assault charges must understand the laws surrounding these charges. The courts can impose severe penalties on those found guilty, including imprisonment, fines, probation and a permanent record. If you are a defendant, what steps can you take to...
Does attempting to carjack a vehicle still result in a felony?
Carjacking is directly taking a vehicle from another person. While it might seem like regular auto theft, it's not the same. It's distinct in a way that involves force, violence or threats against the person in the vehicle. Those facing carjacking offenses can see...
Maximizing juvenile diversion programs in Florida
Juvenile diversion programs in Florida offer a good alternative to regular court cases for minors facing criminal charges. These programs focus on rehabilitating minors, lowering repeat offenses and giving young offenders tools to make better choices. Maximizing these...
What happens when you face a wobbler offense?
In most cases, the distinction between a misdemeanor and a felony is clear. Misdemeanors are generally less severe offenses, while felonies typically include serious crimes like murder and assault. However, most people do not know about the special class of crimes...
Fuel theft in Florida: Penalties and legal consequences
It might sound like a little mischief, but fuel theft—also known as gas theft or gas drive-offs—is a criminal offense in Florida. When someone fills up their vehicle at a gas station and leaves without paying, they are committing a crime under Florida law. The state...
What are the consequences of hate crimes?
Hate crimes are criminal acts driven by prejudice against a person’s race, religion, gender, or other protected characteristics. If an individual faces allegations of committing a hate crime, understanding the serious consequences and the legal options available is...