Confronting a stranger who has invaded another's personal space may become deadly. If one person feels threatened, Florida's Stand Your Ground law may act as a defense against the action. What exactly does this law mean, and when is it appropriate to use it? Learn...
Violent Crimes
Need-to-know information about bar fights and criminal charges
Locals and visitors alike enjoy the bustling nightlife in Sarasota. However, a crowded and alcohol-fueled atmosphere can spark disagreements that quickly turn into a fierce melee. If a patron finds themself amid an altercation, the consequences can result in more than...
Can you claim self-defense against domestic abuse charges?
If you face charges for violence against another person, you may feel overwhelmed by the system. Fighting back against someone who wants to cause you harm is all you can do, yet you may find that you still face charges. The other person can claim that you assaulted...
Dealing with false domestic violence accusations
If a family or household member has accused you of domestic violence, you likely have a considerable amount of anxiety and uncertainty. These charges surface for a host of reasons, and many innocent people have found themselves in this position. It is vital to try to...
Study cites errors, disagreements over bloodstain analysis
Crime scenes often contain bloodstains, and bloodstain analysts offer their interpretations as “scientific” evidence in criminal cases. However, a new report published in the August 2021 edition of Forensic Science International says bloodstain pattern analysis (BPA)...
Courts allowing ‘junk science’ as evidence, study concludes
Scientists say judges across the United States fail to keep unreliable psychological and IQ tests from being used as evidence, resulting in junk science in courtrooms. The research says such tests can influence juries and judges whether it’s used in bail hearings or...
Standing your ground when an intruder enters your home
You want your home to be a comfortable, safe place. Unfortunately, the threat of an intruder is always present. But if you have firearms, you might feel equipped to protect yourself and those around you.Hopefully, you will never feel the need to fire your weapon at...
Are there external factors that lead to acts of violence?
Like most people, you are probably familiar with some criminal laws within the United States. But if you find yourself in a position where you face accusations of committing a violent crime, you might have questions about what led to your situation, when your legal...
Why is the “Stand Your Ground” law so controversial?
An argument at a gas station escalated, and in a matter of moments a shove to the ground lead to a bullet in the chest. Sound like an overreaction? Well, that’s what Florida law aims to find out.In late August, Michael Drejka was none too pleased with Markeis...
Florida Uber driver killed a man but may not face charges
Last month, Uber driver Robert Westlake was driving down a dark, empty roadway in Polk County. Suddenly, an aggressive driver in a pick-up truck appeared in his rearview mirror. The driver tailgated Westlake for a minute, then swerved in front of the Uber and slammed...