Category Archives: Criminal Defense
Are More Domestic Violence Crimes Committed During Summer?
It is considered a bit of an urban legend that crime rates rise during the summer, particularly more ‘intimate’ crimes like domestic violence. This rise can be attributed to shorter tempers, more time at home, and a host of other reasons that can lead to discord – however, some researchers and law enforcement professionals… Read More »
“Black Swan” Murder Trial Explores Self-Defense Against Domestic Violence
The so-called “Black Swan” murder trial involves a couple from Manatee County. In 2020, the woman shot her husband to death, alleging that she did so in self-defense and that she feared for her life after her husband’s behavior became erratic and threatening. As of this writing, the case is in the hands of… Read More »
Can I Persuade My Alleged Victim To Drop Domestic Violence Charges?
If you have been charged with a crime that falls under the umbrella of domestic violence, it is crucial that you take such a charge seriously. It is understandable, particularly if this is your first run-in with the law, to be uncomfortable or even frightened at finding yourself in this kind of situation –… Read More »
Kidnapping, False Imprisonment, and Domestic Violence In Florida
Most people imagine crimes of domestic violence as physical altercations, sometimes involving firearms or not. However, at least in Florida, there are several different criminal offenses that can fall under the umbrella of domestic violence. Two of them include kidnapping and false imprisonment – offenses that are not necessarily seen as violent, but can… Read More »
Defenses To Florida Domestic Violence
Being convicted of a crime of domestic violence can lead to a long jail term and large fines in Florida, but despite such serious consequences, far too many cases of domestic violence in the state are brought on somewhat shaky ground. It is not unheard of, for example, for law enforcement to charge a… Read More »
Can I Fight A Florida Domestic Violence Injunction?
If you have been involved in a domestic dispute in Florida, your alleged victim may feel it appropriate to obtain a restraining order (known in Florida as a domestic violence injunction, or DVI) against you. While a temporary or ex parte order can be obtained without your knowledge or consent, a permanent order cannot… Read More »
Domestic Violence Is Not A Single Crime In Florida
A common misconception around domestic violence law in Florida is that one can be charged with domestic violence as its own offense. In reality, the way Florida law is structured means that a person who has (allegedly) committed a crime of domestic violence is charged with the underlying offense; the presence of domestic violence… Read More »
Is ‘Drug Court’ An Option For Me?
For a variety of reasons, Florida’s drug laws are among the harshest in the United States. If a person is arrested and charged with a drug-related crime in the state, the odds are high that they will face a strict penalty. However, there are options for nonviolent defendants, particularly those who have never been… Read More »
“No Contest” Pleas In Domestic Violence Cases
When a person is charged with a crime of domestic violence, they will be asked how they wish to plead. What many do not realize is that while not every plea is appropriate for every case, there are more plea options besides guilty and not guilty. One of the options available in many cases… Read More »
“Gabby Petito Act” Took Effect July 1
In 2021, the 22-year old Gabrielle “Gabby” Petito was tragically killed by her then-fiancé during a cross-country van trip the two were taking. Before her death, the two were spotted arguing by police in Utah. After her body was found, her parents filed a civil lawsuit against the police department, alleging that they negligently… Read More »