Police officers help enforce the law by investigating crimes, intervening in criminal activity as it occurs and taking people into state custody as necessary. The Fourth Amendment to the Constitution, however, protects people from unlawful searches and seizures, and...
Individuals involved in the distribution or trafficking of drugs are at risk of criminal prosecution. Florida statutes impose very serious penalties for the trafficking of controlled substances and prohibited drugs. Occasionally, those involved in unregulated drug...
Shoplifting, also known as retail fraud or retail theft, is one of the most common theft offenses regularly prosecuted in the U.S. Many retail establishments have loss prevention specialists monitoring shoppers. They may also have security guards and managers on...
The holiday season in Clearwater and throughout Florida offers many reasons to celebrate. Between neighborhood parties, family gatherings and work events, the social calendar stays full. Oftentimes, alcohol is part of these festivities. The Florida Highway Patrol and...
Facing assault charges can be overwhelming, especially if you acted to protect yourself. In Florida, self-defense laws allow you to use reasonable force in certain situations. Understanding how this defense works can make a big difference in your case. When...
Many people think the person who reports domestic violence can drop the charges. In Florida, that’s not how it works. Once police make an arrest, the case belongs to the state, not the individual who made the report. Prosecutors—not the person involved—decide whether...
Yes, you can be charged with a DUI in Florida even if you’re under 21. The state treats any blood alcohol level of 0.02 percent or higher as a violation, meaning it only takes a small amount to trigger serious penalties. Here’s how the process and penalties work and...
Burglary charges in Florida can lead to serious consequences, and understanding when police can arrest you helps you know your rights. In Florida, burglary involves entering or remaining in a structure, dwelling, or vehicle with the intent to commit a crime inside....
Entrapment often comes up in crime shows, but in Florida, it stands as a real defense used in courtrooms. The idea behind it stays straightforward: law enforcement cannot pressure or trick someone into committing a crime they would not have chosen on their own. What...
When someone faces criminal charges, the court often looks beyond the current case. Judges may review past behavior, including prior misdemeanors, to decide on sentencing. Even if the previous offenses were considered minor, they can still shape how a judge views the...