Author Archives: Jay Butchko
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 »
How Do I Defend Against Domestic Violence Charges?
Being charged with domestic violence in Florida can change a person’s life, even if they are not convicted. If you are in this situation, it is understandable that you may be nervous or even panicked. However, Florida does recognize defenses to domestic violence, and with sufficient evidence, it can be enough to get you… Read More »
Constructive Possession Can Lead To Florida Drug Charges
In order to be convicted of drug possession in Florida, a state’s attorney must establish three criteria: that a defendant had control over the drugs, knew of their illicit nature, and knew where they were located. Most of the time, this is established if a person is found to have actual, physical possession of… Read More »
How Much Jail Time Will I Get If Convicted Of Domestic Violence?
Domestic violence is a serious offense that can result in significant consequences. However, Florida law on the subject is confusing; the way the relevant statute is worded, it may appear as though no jail time is required upon conviction. In reality, almost everyone convicted of a crime of domestic violence will serve time behind… Read More »
Lee County Couple Charged With Child Neglect After Child Overdoses
In late October 2023, a Lee County couple was charged with child neglect and possession of cocaine after first responders found their 14-month old child unresponsive after overdosing. As of this writing, the child is in stable condition, but the couple confessed to knowing that their child had ingested “several pills described as oxycodone”… Read More »
Why Can’t My Alleged Victim Drop Domestic Violence Charges?
Domestic violence cases often get started when a well-meaning neighbor or family member calls police over an argument that may not warrant a law enforcement presence. If this has happened to you, and you have been charged with domestic violence in Florida, it is understandable to be concerned. It may occur to you to… Read More »
Drug Trafficking vs “Intent To Sell”
Because of the state’s past history with illegal drugs, crimes involving sale or trafficking are taken incredibly seriously. That said, it is important to draw a distinction between the two. Florida law differentiates between the offenses, particularly in the matter of intent – but being charged with either can be a life changing event…. Read More »