Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Penalties for Shoplifting in Florida
In Florida, shoplifting is one of the most common criminal offenses. There may be different motivations for someone committing these crimes, including organized retail theft, adolescent rebellion, and desperation, to name just a few. In Florida, retail theft crimes, commonly known as shoplifting, are charged as either petit theft or grand theft, depending on… Read More »
Assault vs. Aggravated Assault in Florida
Assault and aggravated assault charges are very common in Florida. Both involve one person threatening someone else. There are many key differences between these two charges, though. An assault charge can be upgraded to aggravated assault when there are certain circumstances involved in the case, such as if a weapon was used during the… Read More »
Jason Blank Comments on the Florida Supreme Court Reworking the Speedy Trial and Formal Charges Timelines
March 14, 2025 By Mark D. Killian www.floridabar.org The Florida Supreme Court has revised the state’s criminal procedure rules, amending the speedy trial procedures and timeline for filing formal charges. The new rules, which take effect July 1, extend the recapture period, set a new starting point for speedy trial deadlines — beginning when… Read More »
Defenses to Drug Trafficking Charges in Florida
Many of the illegal drugs sold and used in Florida are imported from other countries or states. In Florida, drug trafficking is considered a very serious crime and lawmakers have prioritized criminalizing the problem. Drug trafficking charges are felonies that can result in decades of prison time and up to $1 million in fines…. Read More »
Steps to Take if Charged with a White Collar Crime
Many people believe that because white collar crimes are typically non-violent, they are also not very serious. This is not true. Charges like mail fraud, money laundering, and embezzlement are very serious and are often prosecuted at the federal level, although we do see them prosecuted in state court as well. After being charged… Read More »
The Legal Grounds for Obtaining a Domestic Violence Injunction in Florida
Domestic violence injunctions, often called restraining orders in other states, can have a significant impact on the life of both the petitioner and the respondent. An injunction is a civil court order requiring an individual to stay away from the person seeking protection. It can prevent contact in any form, including phone calls, text… Read More »
FACDL President Jason Blank Highlights Annual Sips & Suit Event
Floridabar.org Mar 05, 2025 The Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (FACDL) recently hosted “Sips & Suits” events across the state, bringing together criminal defense lawyers for some networking while giving back to their communities. These events aimed to replenish Public Defenders’ trial clothes closets by collecting professional attire for their clients in need… Read More »
Can a Victim Choose To Drop Domestic Violence Charges in Florida?
A common question we get in Domestic Violence cases is whether the victim can drop the charges once they have been filed. Many people assume that the victim should have control of the case and can, therefore, drop the charges if they see fit. However, the reality is once the domestic violence charges are… Read More »
“To speak, or not to speak? That is the question!” What You Need To Know Before Taking the Stand in Your Criminal Case
If you are facing criminal charges in Florida, and your case is headed to trial, you may consider testifying in your defense. The thought of wanting to clear your name and tell your side of the story can be tempting. But before you decide to take the witness stand, you must understand the potential… Read More »
6 Reasons Why You Need Legal Counsel When Facing a Criminal Investigation in Florida
Being under criminal investigation can be overwhelming, especially if you believe you’ve done nothing wrong. Many people assume that hiring a lawyer at this stage is unnecessary, but that is far from the truth. You need to hire a criminal defense lawyer immediately after you learn that you are under a criminal investigation to… Read More »