Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Allegations Of Domestic Violence Must Be “Timely”
As with most other offenses, crimes of domestic violence must be brought before the legal system within a certain time period, usually codified in a statute of limitations. However, even within the statute of limitations, courts may sometimes rule that domestic violence allegations are “untimely.” If you have been charged with a domestic violence… Read More »
Driving On Drugs Is A Crime
Cannabis is a drug that has a dedicated base of users, with many claiming it is safer than drinking alcohol. While the proverbial jury may still be out on that score, it is important for drug users in general to understand that driving a car while under the influence of drugs, cannabis included, is… Read More »
The Process Of A Domestic Violence Charge
Being arrested, particularly for an offense you did not commit, can be a truly traumatizing experience. Florida law enforcement will often arrest one participant in a domestic dispute, and if it turns out to be you, it can be frightening to be unsure of what might lie ahead. This is particularly true if you… Read More »
What Are Florida Inchoate Offenses?
Because Florida takes drug offenses very seriously, you may have either been charged with, or have heard of someone else charged with, conspiracy to buy, sell, or traffic drugs. Conspiracy is one of three offenses recognized in Florida as what are called ‘inchoate’ offenses; that is, actions that are criminal even if they fail… Read More »
Common Florida Domestic Violence Defenses
If you have been accused of a crime of domestic violence, it is crucial to take the charges seriously. Florida does not have a specific singular crime of domestic violence; rather, a person is charged with the underlying offense. Regardless, it is crucial to have an attorney on your side to help defend you,… Read More »
Can Law Enforcement Take My Property After A Drug Arrest?
In late August 2025, a press conference in Polk County to discuss the aftermath of a drug bust included Sheriff Grady Judd donning a large gold chain and bracelet, ostensibly to make a point about the dangers of selling or trafficking drugs. The sheriff tried to draw a line between the “drip” and the… Read More »
Florida’s Domestic Violence Cases Set Precedents
The way that the average person defines domestic violence, also called intimate partner violence (IPV), differs significantly from most legal definitions of the term. Florida’s is broad, including any criminal offense “resulting in physical injury or death” to one or more of a specific class of victims. This definition has been built on the… Read More »
Key Defenses To Drug Possession Charges In Florida
Florida’s attitude toward drug-related offenses is harsh, arguably among the harshest in the country. Even a charge of simple possession, with no intent to traffic or sell a controlled substance, can still result in a felony charge in some cases. That said, there are several defenses available to someone in this position, and the… Read More »
Domestic Violence Pretrial Diversion Programs
Because Florida’s definition of domestic violence is a broad one, a crime of domestic violence may carry almost any sentence, from a misdemeanor to a capital felony. If you have been charged with this type of offense, it is important to take it seriously – but it is important to be aware that if… Read More »
New Cannabis Law May Cause Unexpected Harm To Disabled Defendants
One of the last bills signed during the 2025 legislative session was a measure known as SB 2514. Among other measures, this bill, which became law on July 1, 2025, adds a serious, long-term consequence to being convicted of a Florida drug crime. Under this bill, people who are convicted of certain drug offenses… Read More »