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 federal cases. However, many people are...
If you get arrested while on probation in Florida, the court will likely revoke your probation and you might end up back in jail. What Can I Expect If I Am Arrested While on Probation? When you get arrested while on probation, your probation officer will file an affidavit with the...
With the recent legalization of medical marijuana and the ongoing process of decriminalization of recreational marijuana in Florida, many people are curious about what is and is not legal. State laws for marijuana are in reform, so it is important for Floridians to stay privy to new legislation to stay out...
If you have been arrested for domestic violence (DV), you need to know what happens next. You will need to appear before a judge before posting bond and ready yourself to go through the criminal court proceedings. Below, we provide a broad overview of what happens after you have been...
The difference between murder and manslaughter is simpler than it seems. Manslaughter refers to the act of taking someone’s life unjustly, but without forethought. Manslaughter may be voluntary or involuntary, but it lacks premeditation. Murder, on the other hand, is the act of taking someone’s life intentionally after having planned...
Pointing a gun at someone is a felony crime in Florida, punishable by imprisonment and fines. If you are undocumented or on a visitor visa and you are convicted, you can also be deported. And it makes no difference whether the gun you pointed was loaded. It is aggravated assault...
While Florida Statutes do not differentiate between involuntary and voluntary manslaughter, the circumstances of the case can certainly influence the judge’s decision and sentencing. Even though they might seem to be similar concepts, there are some key differences between voluntary and involuntary manslaughter. In Florida, the difference between voluntary and...
Yes, drug trafficking is a federal offense, punishable by fines and time in a federal prison. However, most drug cases are tried on a state level and local law enforcement agencies are typically the ones that make drug arrests. Whether the drug trafficking case will travel through the federal or...
A judge drafts an administrative order to ensure proper administration of the court's affairs. In 2016, the Sixth Judicial Court (Pinellas County) issued 85 administrative orders. One of these orders dealt with the handling of criminal case files. In April 2016, Chief Judge Anthony Rondolino signed Administrative Order Number 2016-019...
When you are charged with a crime, your prior criminal record comes into play and may affect the outcome your case. If the federal court deems you a “career offender,” the penalties you face in your current case could be much higher. Below, we explain who the government considers career...