Some crimes require criminal intent. In the courts, people refer to that intention to break the law as mens rea. For certain offenses, like violent crimes, prosecutors may have to establish mens rea to secure a conviction. Someone's criminal intent could be the...
If you are charged with criminal trespassing in Florida, you can face significant fines, jail time, and probation. Also, as a crime, it will appear on any background check you submit for a job, housing or anything else, which may keep you from receiving it. Because...
There are more limitations and rules that apply to prescription medication than many people realize. It is not legal for someone to possess or take a prescription drug any way they choose. Florida law also refers to prescription medications as controlled substances...
If you were asked to draw a criminal, what would you draw? Probably you would sketch someone pointing a gun at another person or climbing in through the window of a house to steal something. You probably would not draw someone sitting at a desk using a computer. Yet...
Drug possession charges in Florida can lead to jail time and big fines, in addition to lasting limitations on your future opportunities. The amount of drugs allegedly in your possession and the classification of the drug will influence what penalties you face. There...
Many people do their best to comply with police requests during traffic stops. They believe that cooperating with law enforcement officers will result in a more favorable outcome. In many cases, the opposite is actually true. Obviously, disrespecting or threatening...
If you have faced charges or a conviction in the past, you may think that the crimes committed will follow you forever. They certainly can be problematic, because these records, no matter how old, can impact your ability to get a job, go to school with student aid or...
Unfortunately, the state of Florida remains steadfast in its stance against using and possessing cannabis in any form. The only possible exception is if a licensed physician recommends that you use marijuana for medical reasons. Until the state catches up with other...
Florida shoplifting offenses often involving juveniles and impulsive crimes. When a teenager steals a small item they want but can't or don't wish to pay for, they stick it in their pocket, inside their purse or up their shirt before exiting the store as quickly as...
The Bill of Rights extends many protections to those accused of criminal offenses. Each amendment extends certain rights that neither state nor federal laws can limit. The Fourth Amendment protects you against police misconduct that leads to unreasonable searches....