Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Probable Cause & Drug-Sniffing Dogs
If you are ever stopped by law enforcement on suspicion of possessing illegal drugs, it can be a scary experience even if you have nothing to hide. Because of this, it is all too easy for many to remain unaware of their rights in such a situation, especially when all the stops are pulled… Read More »
Do You Have A Domestic Violence Injunction Against You?
Domestic violence is seen as a very serious offense in Florida, and if someone has been the victim of a domestic violence incident, the legal system is set up to protect them in the shape of an injunction – also known as a restraining order. Long-term injunctions are only granted after hearings, where both… Read More »
Domestic Violence Charges & Florida’s “Stand Your Ground” Law
Florida is one of the states that has what is known as a “Stand Your Ground” law, which is intended to clarify the situations in which a person can use force in self-defense. However, there are still questions surrounding its use in specific situations, particularly in cases where domestic violence is a factor. If… Read More »
44 Pounds Of Fentanyl & Cocaine Found In Boynton Beach Bust
In early December 2023, an 18-month long investigation by the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office (PBCSO) and the Boynton Beach Police Department (BBPD) led to the arrests of 16 people, all allegedly complicit in the trafficking of fentanyl and cocaine into Florida. With the evidence gathered, 20 firearms and 8 vehicles were seized, along… Read More »
Is Character Evidence Admissible In Domestic Violence Cases?
Domestic violence is considered a serious crime in Florida, as it should be. While defendants accused of domestic violence offenses have the same rights as anyone else, there are some slight variations that can be an unpleasant surprise to someone who is unaware. One of the main ways domestic violence cases differ from other… Read More »
Uncharged Conduct In Federal Drug Cases
When a person is convicted of a federal drug offense in Florida, they must be sentenced, and Florida generally prosecutes drug offenses aggressively. As a result, any factor in sentencing that can be entertained lawfully usually is. The issue of uncharged conduct – that is, conduct that might be criminal, but was not charged… Read More »
Holiday Spike In Domestic Violence Smaller Than Average
The holiday season is meant to be a happy time, but unfortunately, it winds up tragic for some families. Rates of domestic violence tend to spike during the December holidays, for a variety of reasons; however, as of this writing, 2023’s holidays appear to have passed more smoothly. Florida prosecutes these offenses aggressively, though,… Read More »
Federal Sentencing Statistics Show Florida Tough On Drug Crime
Drug offenses are prosecuted at both the state and federal level, with the proper place for an individual case usually decided by the amount in question. Florida’s drug laws are seen as draconian, and it is somewhat common for individuals charged with drug offenses to think that a federal sentence will be less harsh…. Read More »
Do Other Types Of Abuse Count As Domestic Violence?
More and more, society is moving away from a definition of domestic violence that includes only physical abuse. Doctors and scientists are gradually beginning to realize that intimate partner violence is primarily about control, and control can be exerted in multiple different ways, from emotional to financial. However, many state legislatures are proving slow… Read More »
Attacking The Evidence In Your Florida Drug Case
When a person is charged with a drug offense in Florida, it can have serious, long-term consequences, particularly if they are convicted. However, everyone is entitled to their day in court, and to raise appropriate defenses if they apply. One of the best ways to create reasonable doubt in your case is to question… Read More »