Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Domestic Violence & Firearms
One of the most hotly contested issues surrounding crimes of domestic violence is the fact that by both Florida and federal law, anyone with a domestic violence injunction (DVI) is required to surrender all their firearms and ammunition to law enforcement. The Second Amendment to the U.S. Constitution guarantees the right to keep and… Read More »
Mandatory Minimum Sentences For Drug Offenses Remain In Florida
Florida lawmakers take drug crimes quite seriously, seeing them as crimes against society due to the state’s high rates of addiction. Because of this, and as a leftover from the state’s days of high drug crime rates, lawmakers have consistently voted to retain mandatory minimum sentences for several drug crimes, despite data existing that… Read More »
The Role Of The Victim In Florida Domestic Violence Cases
If you have been charged with a domestic violence offense in Florida, you may think that having a discussion with your alleged victim may get them to “drop the charges.” The reality is that once charges have been issued in a domestic violence matter, the outcome is almost entirely out of the victim’s hands…. Read More »
Is Vaping Legal In Florida?
As of this writing, cannabis is legal to use in Florida only in a medical context, and only with the appropriate permissions and paperwork from your doctor. However, this does not stop many Floridians from seeking out other ways to partake, and one of them that has become popular over time is vaping. While… Read More »
Credibility In Domestic Violence Cases
It is very common in Florida domestic violence cases for there to be credibility issues with one or both of the alleged participants. Even if you have acted in ways you should not have, it is important to try and preserve your credibility at trial, for a negative credibility finding can adversely affect the… Read More »
Will I Be Charged With A Felony Or A Misdemeanor?
If you have been arrested for a drug offense, one of the most important questions on your mind will almost certainly be the severity of any potential charges you will face. Florida has extremely strict drug laws, due to the state’s history as a trafficking hot spot, and while it is true that most… Read More »
Does Domestic Violence Have To Be Physical?
When discussing domestic violence, it is crucial to remember that there are multiple different types – physical, emotional, verbal, and financial are among the most commonly seen. However, most crimes of domestic violence are physical in nature. If you have been abused by a partner or other loved one, but not in a physical… Read More »
Explaining Florida Fentanyl Charges
In recent years, the synthetic opiate fentanyl has become a more popular drug among dealers and traffickers, due to its potency (as much as 50 times stronger than heroin, according to the Centers for Disease Control [CDC]). There are many misconceptions surrounding fentanyl’s uses and properties, but regardless of misinformation and propaganda, it is… Read More »
Domestic Violence & Due Process
Domestic violence is a serious crime that leaves its mark on victims. However, those charged with committing such offenses are still entitled to due process and a fair trial. If you have been charged with a crime of domestic violence, know that you have rights that cannot be taken away, and you have the… Read More »
Drug Possession vs Drug Trafficking Charges In Florida
Florida is notorious for having some of the strictest drug laws in the United States. This is true for a variety of reasons, but most notably due to its history – it was a cartel playground for many years, and even after that activity was brought down, its legacy of drug addiction and abuse… Read More »