Author Archives: Jay Butchko

Stages in Florida Criminal Proceedings
You may not know what to expect if you have been criminally charged, and this is very stressful. While it is not the only difficulty during criminal procedures, contacting a Fort Lauderdale criminal defense lawyer can relieve much of your stress and help you prepare for the process. Below, our experienced attorney outlines the… Read More »

Debunking Common Misconceptions About DUIs in Florida
Driving under the influence is one of the most common types of criminal charges filed in Florida. Impaired driving has been the subject of many public awareness campaigns, and even school lessons. Even still, the things many people think they know about drunk driving are incorrect. If you have been charged with drunk driving,… Read More »

Medical Conditions Police Mistake for DUI
If a police officer notices you driving in a manner that leads them to believe you are under the influence, they only need reasonable suspicion to pull you over for a suspected DUI. However, people can sometimes drive erratically even when they are not impaired. Some medical conditions can cause motorists to act in… Read More »

Diversion Programs Available in Domestic Violence Cases
Being charged with domestic violence is very stressful. You may be wondering if you will have to appear in court and if you are facing jail time. You may even wonder what happened to the relationship between you and your accuser. Fortunately, being accused of domestic violence, even formally, does not necessarily mean you… Read More »

Things to Know About Sexual Battery
Being convicted of sexual battery carries very serious consequences. These include prison sentences that can last for decades. A conviction will also leave your career, reputation, and freedom at significant risk. The first step toward protecting your future is to fully understand the charges against you, as well as the defenses available in these… Read More »

What is Stalking in Florida?
Many people think that stalking is a minor offense in Florida, but it is not. In fact, some people engage in the behavior and do not think they are doing anything wrong. They do not know any differently until they are charged with a crime. Below, our Fort Lauderdale criminal defense lawyer outlines the… Read More »

When is a DUI Escalated to a Felony from a Misdemeanor?
Facing DUI charges in Florida is very scary. The majority of DUI charges in the state are misdemeanors, particularly those for a first and second offense. However, there are certain situations that can elevate a misdemeanor DUI to a felony. If you are facing felony charges, it is imperative that you work with a… Read More »

Challenging Field Sobriety Tests During a DUI Defense
Field sobriety tests are administered by law enforcement when someone is pulled over for a suspected DUI. The police claim that these tests are used to evaluate a driver’s physical and cognitive functions to determine if they are impaired. The horizontal gaze nystagmus (HGN), the walk and turn, and one-leg stand are some of… Read More »

Mistakes to Avoid After a DUI Arrest
It is natural to feel very confused after being arrested for driving under the influence. This may be the first time you have found yourself in this situation, and you may not know what to do next. Our Fort Lauderdale DUI lawyer knows the confusion, fear, and uncertainty you are facing. While there are… Read More »

When are Juveniles Tried as Adults in Florida?
It is a sad fact that Florida leads the country for the number of juveniles sentenced to adult prisons, even though the rate has dropped by 77 percent in the last ten years. There are many ways juveniles can be tried as adults in criminal court. When this occurs, juveniles who are convicted are… Read More »