Author Archives: Jay Butchko
When You Truly Acted In Self-Defense
It is fairly common for domestic violence defendants in Florida to argue that they acted in self-defense even if this is not truly the case. If you are charged with domestic violence, but you truly did act in self-defense, you may be under the impression that you will not be believed in court. If… Read More »
Federal vs State Drug Charges
As most Floridians are aware, their state has some of the toughest drug laws in the United States. However, what may escape notice is that U.S. federal drug charges can be as tough or even tougher, with stiff mandatory minimum sentences still being upheld for most drug-related crimes. If you have been charged with… Read More »
The Legal Consequences of A Domestic Violence Conviction
Florida’s definition of domestic violence is fairly broad, intending to ensure that as many of the cases which might fall under that umbrella as possible are tried as such. Domestic violence is not a single crime in Florida; rather, the presence of domestic violence is used as a sentencing enhancement in the event of… Read More »
Potential Change To Florida’s Drug Overdose Laws
In this legislative session, Florida’s houses have seen fit to enact sweeping new laws on every issue from LGBTQ+ rights to zoning. In terms of criminal justice, there have been several changes that can adversely affect the rights of defendants, particularly those who face drug charges. Florida’s drug crime laws are some of the… Read More »
Domestic Violence Charges May Impact Your Immigration Status
Domestic violence is seen as a serious crime in Florida, and a conviction will result in serious penalties. However, for people who are not citizens of the United States, it is crucial to understand that a conviction for this type of crime can have consequences even beyond jail time – namely, that you will… Read More »
2 People Charged After Attempted Sale Of Cocaine In North Miami Beach
In early June 2023, North Miami Beach police (NMBPD) arrested a Bahamian national and a resident of New Jersey after they were stopped “attempting a drug transaction.” The transaction allegedly involved over 100 kilograms of cocaine, transported in bales. The two individuals will likely face felony charges of trafficking in cocaine, which can carry… Read More »
Can Teenagers Face Domestic Violence Charges?
At least in theory, anyone is capable of committing domestic violence. However, the average person tends to think only of adults when discussing these topics. In reality, teenagers can be respondents in domestic violence cases as well, though the cases are usually prosecuted in a different manner. If you or your child have been… Read More »
Man Charged With Drug Offenses After Stopping To Charge His Phone
In June 2023, a man was arrested after breaking into a Hernando County home, ostensibly to charge his phone. He claimed he had thought the house belonged to his girlfriend, but did not know the address. While being searched, police found both heroin and methamphetamine on the man’s person and in his backpack. The… Read More »
Does Stalking Count As Domestic Violence?
Domestic violence is an ‘umbrella’ of sorts in Florida, encompassing any crime that causes physical injury or death to a “family or household member” of the alleged perpetrator. Stalking is a crime that is normally charged as a first-degree misdemeanor, but aggravating factors can bump it up to a third-degree felony, and can place… Read More »
Is The Evidence In Your Drug Case Admissible?
If you are caught with drugs in your possession or control, it may be in your best interests to simply plead guilty and accept your sentence. However, there are some cases in which you may be able to show that your rights were violated, or that the evidence against you was obtained improperly. If… Read More »