Criminal Defense

  • Reclassification of Criminal Penalties
    Reclassification of Criminal Penalties

    Florida recently enacted Senate Bill 1036, which was signed into law by the Governor and took effect on October 1, 2024. This legislation introduces the reclassification of criminal penalties for specific offenses, leading to harsher potential punishments. The law primarily targets crimes committed following unlawful reentry into the United States...

  • FL Presentence Investigation Report: Definitions & Process

    Overall, federal crimes in Florida are more complex and challenging than state charges. For instance, offenders found guilty of a federal charge must undergo a presentence investigation in Florida (PSI). This process is a required step that must be completed before sentencing.  The presentence investigation is a standard procedure in...

  • Hit and Run St. Petersburg: Florida Laws & Penalties
    Hit and Run St. Petersburg: Florida Laws & Penalties

    Under Florida law, if you were in a car accident that caused property damage or injuries to other people, it is illegal to flee from the scene of the accident. If you fail to stop, provide your information, and render aid, you could face a charge for hit and run...

  • First Time Offenders in Florida: Definitions & Acts
    First Time Offenders in Florida: Definitions & Acts

    In some cases, first-time offenders in Florida may receive the court’s mercy. This could mean that, instead of facing imprisonment, first-time offenders may be suitable for rehabilitation or, if the prosecutor agrees, charges may be dropped altogether.  However, this option is only available for certain crimes. In the following sections,...

  • How Long Can You Be Held in Jail Without Seeing a Judge?

    One of the first things people who have been arrested want to know is how long they can be held in jail without seeing a judge. Florida law provides that arrestees must have their first appearance, also referred to as an “advisory,” with a judge within 24 hours following their...

  • U.S. Supreme Court Refuses to Hear Florida Appeal on Death Penalty Case

    On May 22, the Supreme Court of United States (SCOTUS) refused Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi’s petition for a writ of certiorari in Florida v. Hurst. The SCOTUS refusal left intact a Florida Supreme Court ruling in the case that made it unconstitutional for a judge to impose the death...