Did the police have reasonable suspicion to pull you over and test you for driving under the influence? If not, that violates your rights vested in the constitution. The Fourth Amendment protects you from unlawful search and seizure, which could heavily weigh in on...
In Florida, there are laws that dictate how you can or cannot use weapons. Discharging a firearm could end up leading to criminal charges, but only in some cases. Any person who discharges a firearm in the street, on a public road or on a highway, for example, could...
In a criminal case, the mishandling of evidence may result in the case ending in the defendant’s favor. Evidence is the core of any case, so when that evidence goes missing or is mishandled in another way, it’s reasonable to point that out as a part of your defense....
If you are facing criminal charges of any kind, the evidence before court plays a significant role in determining the final verdict since it helps the prosecution prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. When the evidence against you is overwhelming, you may think...
You may be stunned and angry after being charged with a child sex crime. Your mind may also be working overtime, trying to pinpoint when this may have happened—but you come up blank. As a police officer begins questioning you, you remember something—but you never...
When the Florida legislature’s new session begins in January, lawmakers may take up two bills (one in the House and one in the Senate) that would expand the state’s DUI laws to include impairment by prescription and over-the-counter medications as well as so-called...
There are numerous circumstances that might lead to a driving under the influence (DUI) offense in Florida. For example, if someone causes a crash, police officers will scrutinize them carefully for signs of chemical impairment. Drivers can also get arrested during a...
The proverbial “cop knock” is distinctive because it’s loud and sharp -- and designed to get your attention. When you hear that noise and look out your door to find the police standing there, what do you do? First, you take a deep breath and calm your nerves. The odds...
If the police charge you with a crime, they need evidence to back up their claims. That could be verbal evidence given by an eyewitness, or physical evidence, such as a gun used to shoot someone. Finding a way to challenge the validity of that evidence may be crucial...
The criminal justice system in America has many moving parts. Often, this can lead to confusion over the specifics of criminal offenses. A prime example of this lies with the distinction between drug distribution and trafficking. Understanding the difference between...