Author Archives: Jay Butchko
What is an Illegal Search and Seizure?
Facing criminal charges in Florida is stressful and intimidating. With the help of an attorney, you have the right to challenge certain evidence presented against you. If you can show that law enforcement obtained evidence through an unlawful search and seizure, it gives you an even better chance of defending your case. Below, one… Read More »
Is Consent a Defense to Charges of Statutory Rape?
If you are facing charges of statutory rape, it is critical that you speak with a Fort Lauderdale sex offenses lawyer as soon as possible. Consent is not a legitimate defense to these charges. Depending on the circumstances surrounding your case, you may face very harsh penalties, including up to life in prison, if… Read More »
Can You Refuse Field Sobriety Tests in Florida?
If a police officer suspects that you are driving while drunk, they will pull you over to investigate further. Many things can happen during a DUI stop, including field sobriety tests. The police officer may ask you to take a field sobriety test to check your balance, coordination, and ability to follow instructions. You… Read More »
Can You Carry a Concealed Weapon in Florida?
It was in 2023 that the Florida legislature passed a law allowing certain people the right to carry a concealed weapon. Still, it is important to know that not everyone qualifies for this relatively new privilege. If you have a felony conviction on your criminal record, it is critical to understand the process of… Read More »
How to Remove a No-Contact Order After a Domestic Dispute
If a domestic dispute has led to an arrest, the courts in Florida will often issue a no-contact order as a condition of your release. While the order is in place, you are prohibited from contacting the individual it is meant to protect. It is not uncommon for the protected person named in an… Read More »
What is Considered Drug Paraphernalia in Florida?
The drug laws in Florida are not only very strict, but they are also very broad. Even the most seemingly innocent items can result in charges of drug paraphernalia possession. These charges may not seem as serious as possession of a controlled substance, but the penalties are still very harsh if you are convicted…. Read More »
What are Weapon Enhancements in Florida?
In Florida, weapon enhancements have a significant impact on sentencing in criminal procedures. It typically means that you will face a harsher sentence than you would if there was not a weapons enhancement in your case. Still, you have the right to fight back against any charges against you, including a weapons enhancement. In… Read More »
How to Avoid Common Mistakes After Being Charged with an Offense
After being charged with a crime, every decision you make and any action you take matters a great deal. This is particularly true early on in your case. Still, people too often unknowingly take certain actions that are harmful to their case and leave them with limited options. Our Fort Lauderdale criminal defense lawyers… Read More »
Founding Partner and Past FACDL President Jason Blank Quoted in Article About the Section of the Florida Law Prohibiting Adults Under Age 21 from Carrying a Concealed Firearm Being Unconstitutional
By Rafael Olmeda South Florida Sun Sentinel 10/25/2025 Effectively dismissing a case against a Fort Lauderdale resident who turns 20 in December, Broward Circuit Judge Frank Ledee said the restriction is inconsistent with the Second Amendment of the Constitution, which guarantees the right of the people to keep and bear arms, and with other… Read More »
Important Things to Know About Ignition Interlock Devices After a DUI Conviction
A conviction for driving under the influence (DUI) carries many harsh penalties. These include high fines, possible jail time, probation, and more. Certain individuals are also required to install an interlock ignition device in their vehicle to ensure that they do not commit the offense in the future. While these devices may seem like… Read More »