Author Archives: Jay Butchko
How to Fight a Restraining Order in Fort Lauderdale
In Florida, victims of domestic violence may be able to obtain an injunction, more commonly referred to as a restraining order, to protect them from their abuser. Restraining orders include specific terms that you must comply with if one is obtained against you. This includes avoiding contact with the alleged victim, even if this… Read More »
Do You Have Rights When Arrested in Florida?
When you have been charged with a crime, you may think that you do not have any rights at all, even if you know you did nothing wrong. Fortunately, that is not true. The law in Florida, and throughout the country, is designed to ensure that individuals accused of a crime are protected and… Read More »
What is the Stand Your Ground Law in Florida?
The ‘stand your ground’ law in Florida has been very controversial over the years, particularly since it was revised in 2005. The law allows Floridians to use deadly or non-deadly force without fear of prosecution. If you live in the state or you are planning to visit, it is important that you understand the… Read More »
What Constitutes Domestic Violence in Florida?
If you or someone you love has been arrested for or charged with domestic violence, you are likely feeling stressed and overwhelmed. However, facing domestic violence charges does not necessarily mean it will end in a conviction. Florida’s domestic violence laws address different types of violence occurring between members of the same family or… Read More »
Can a DUI Be Expunged in Florida?
Convictions for driving under the influence (DUI) are treated very seriously in Florida. Under the law, a conviction for a DUI cannot be sealed or expunged. This means that if you are convicted of a DUI, it will remain on your criminal record permanently. Why are DUI Convictions Ineligible for Expungement? The strict DUI… Read More »
Common Weapons Laws in Florida
In Florida there are very strict laws regarding weapons and violating these laws can result in harsh penalties. If you are thinking about using or purchasing a weapon, it is critical that you understand the state’s weapons laws so you do not face any legal problems. If you have already been charged with a… Read More »
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 »