What happens when a juvenile is arrested and charged with a crime? The incident can be startling both for the juvenile and for the parents. It is important for both parties to stay calm and make informed decisions. The steps taken now could affect the adolescent for...
Sarasota, Florida, Criminal Defense Blog
Sad case of mistaken identity for South Florida man
When you think of mistaken identity in a criminal context, you may think of an eyewitness who – intentionally or accidentally – misidentifies someone as the perpetrator of a crime. Or perhaps you think of a police lineup or photo array in which the cards were...
What is the difference between drug possession and trafficking?
There are many different types of drug crimes. Possession and trafficking are two of the most common offenses. Possession charges can result from a small amount, and the charges and penalties are usually less severe. Trafficking, on the other hand, involves the...
Can social media affect my criminal case?
For most of us, social media is a convenient way to stay connected to family and friends and share many important moments in our lives. However, if law enforcement investigates you or charges you with a crime, those accounts can become valuable resources for police...
What to know if you are being charged with vehicular manslaughter
Facing charges of vehicular manslaughter is no laughing matter. Protecting yourself requires knowledge. The more information you have before a judge, the more likely you will receive a favorable ruling. The moment you face such a charge, begin educating yourself about...
Can you refuse a breath test when pulled over?
Police may demand to test the blood alcohol level of any driver when they suspect impairment. In Florida, having a driver’s license equates to your implied consent to this testing. While you do have the right to refuse to test, that refusal comes with heavy...
Theft to support an addiction: possible defense options
Addiction to drugs, alcohol or gambling can change you. The drive to feed your addiction is often overwhelming. In some cases, people who have never broken the law in their lives become so desperate that they turn to shoplifting, burglary and other theft crimes to...
A criminal record can hurt your education
If you face criminal charges, a conviction could leave you with a permanent record that will impact your life in many ways. You may not realize that a criminal conviction can specifically affect your higher education goals. Misdemeanor and felony convictions stay on...
Can I refuse to take a breath test if suspected of DUI?
If police believe you are under the influence of alcohol while operating a motor vehicle, they will likely ask you to take a Breathalyzer to try to measure your blood alcohol content (BAC). Under Florida law, you don’t have to submit to a breath test, and many people...
When can taking legal drugs for medicinal purposes lead to a DUI?
When most people think about DUIs, alcohol often comes to mind, but what about the prescription drugs that you take? While taking medicine to relieve pain may seem quite different from spending a night at the bar, the effects on your driving can be similar. According...
