You could be gushing about a top developer's next video game release or the upcoming smartphone model to hit the shelves later this year. Whatever it may be, it’s exciting to speculate about the next big product. While there’s nothing wrong with speculating about...
Criminal Defense
When is shoplifting a misdemeanor or a felony?
Shoplifting may appear to be a minor crime; “How can a single stolen item hurt a business?” some might ask. However, shoplifting is a theft crime that’s punishable by law. In Florida, shoplifting classifies as retail theft. And depending on specific circumstances,...
How a tailgate party can lead to an arrest if you’re not careful
Tailgate parties are no longer just for football season. That’s certainly true in Florida where you can party with friends outside before a sporting event or concert all year long. If tailgating is allowed in the parking lot or wherever you and your friends have...
How can a substance abuse issue affect Florida criminal charges?
Substance abuse issues can begin manifesting in a myriad of ways. Some people start having a beer when they get home from work every night and then find that they can't stop after a few beers several years later. Others may have medical issues that lead to...
When Florida police violate someone’s rights during a search
Many people don't fully understand their rights when they are dealing with the police. Illegal searches are one of the more common civil rights violations that occur during police encounters. They can have a profound impact on the outcome of a defendant’s criminal...
The importance of criminal defense
A story always has two sides. Criminal defense is important because people are not actually criminals until the prosecutor can prove the action itself was a crime. But the prosecutor may only see one side of a story. The accused may have been acting out of...
What rights do you have during law enforcement questioning?
Dealing with police officers or investigators is scary for the average person, whether guilty or innocent. Law enforcement officers can use your fear and anxiety against you during questioning about criminal activity. Your participation in interviews or even seemingly...
Do you have to let law enforcement search your home?
The job of law enforcement is to enforce the law and protect the general public. Most people view police officers as figures of authority and treat them accordingly. The police do have certain powers, but they are not unlimited. If law enforcement turns up at your...
Do people confess to crimes they didn’t commit?
If a person is facing criminal charges then it means that law enforcement and the prosecution have evidence against them. One of, if not the most compelling piece of evidence is a confession. This consists of the accused accepting liability for the criminal offense. ...
Defining probable cause in criminal cases
It is the job of law enforcement both to solve crimes and prevent them from occurring. Importantly, they cannot do this in an arbitrary or prejudicial manner. Typically, for a search or an arrest to proceed, there must be a presence of probable cause -- or the...