Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Dispelling Myths About Domestic Violence & Divorce
By far, the most domestic violence claims arise out of incidents that occur between spouses – the American Association for Marriage & Family Therapy estimates that as many as 20 percent of marriages will experience some form of intimate partner violence (IPV). That said, there are still several myths surrounding domestic violence cases that… Read More »
Defending Against Florida Drug Possession Charges
Florida is a state that takes drug crimes extremely seriously, due to its past as a cartel mecca – which means that if you are charged with drug possession, it is crucial you take it seriously. Even being caught with a relatively small amount of drugs can lead to time behind bars, and a… Read More »
How Does Florida Prosecute Domestic Violence?
Unlike some other U.S. states, Florida does not have a single criminal offense called ‘domestic violence’ on its books. Rather, domestic violence is seen as an umbrella under which individual offenses can acquire a ‘domestic’ character. If you have been charged with a criminal offense that may rise to the level of domestic violence,… Read More »
Explaining Florida Drug Free Zones
Drug free zones were created in Florida with the intention of curbing illegal activity in potentially important locations, such as schools, government buildings, assisted living facilities, and places of worship (among others). If someone is caught selling or otherwise distributing illegal drugs, they will face a more serious punishment (if convicted) than they would… Read More »
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 »