When you hear the term "possession" in a legal context, you might automatically think of something like holding a stolen item or being caught with illegal drugs in your pocket. But what if you don’t actually have the item on you? Can you still be charged with...
Criminal Defense
Can the Police Take My Blood Without My Consent?
Florida Statute § 316.1932-1933 regulates when the police can require you to give a blood sample, especially if someone has been seriously injured or killed in an accident and the police think you were driving under the influence. After the accident, the police may...
“Ill, Tired, or Impaired:” Traffic Stop to Conduct a Welfare Check
Many people wrongly believe that a law enforcement officer must have probable cause to believe that a defendant has committed a traffic infraction or have a reasonable suspicion to believe that the defendant has committed a crime in order to lawfully stop a vehicle....
“Is That Sniff Up to Snuff? – That Dog Won’t Hunt.” Fifth District Court of Appeals Opinion on Ford v. Florida
In a landmark decision that is set to reshape legal standards across the state, the 5th District Court of Appeals (5th DCA) issued a significant decision in Ford v. Florida, addressing the use of dog sniffs in drug-related searches. This case sheds light on the legal...
Are Controlled Calls Legal in Florida
First, what is a controlled call? A controlled call is a phone call or text message that law enforcement uses to get incriminating evidence to use against you. In the age of social media, and with the endless laundry list of social media apps, the mediums police can...
Registering as a Sex Offender in the State of Florida
If you have been convicted of a sex offense in Florida, one of the most important steps you need to take is registering as a sex offender. Failure to register, re-register, or keep your registration up to date are all third-degree felonies that can be punishable by...
Is a drunken fight at a bar or party assault?
An assault is a threat that puts someone in fear of their safety, according to state law. Often, assault and battery incidents involve one individual attacking or intimidating someone else. Many assault-related offenses relate to domestic violence situations where...
What if police officers knock and want to come inside to talk?
Many people are unsure of what to do next during an encounter with law enforcement professionals. If a police officer knocks at someone's front door, their first instinct is likely to be as cooperative as possible. People don't want to give police officers the...
Why innocent people might face money laundering charges
Money laundering is a very serious white-collar crime. It entails intentionally manipulating financial records to make illegitimate funds gained through illegal activity appear to be lawful income. After all, the capital generated through reselling stolen goods or...
What are possible defenses against embezzlement?
Embezzlement is a form of financial fraud that involves a person wrongfully appropriating funds or property entrusted to their care but owned by someone else. Typically, this crime is associated with employees or fiduciaries who, due to their position, have access to...