Tampa, Florida Criminal Defense & Family Law Blog

When a drug arrest is made in Florida, some might believe that it was for the sale, distribution or trafficking of drugs. However, many people who are arrested simply face drug possession charges. In these cases, when a person faces drug charges, it is important to understand how to lodge a defense for an acquittal or seek an outcome that does not involve incarceration. Having legal help can be key to this goal.

A man who was once on a television reality show was arrested amidst drug possession allegations. The former cast member of "Deadliest Catch" had a warrant for his arrest when law enforcement found him and discovered a white powder in his possession, which was determined to be heroin.

When a person is charged with an OUI, they likely have questions about the charges. They may be wondering what circumstances led up to the charges. They may not be aware that their blood alcohol concentration could have influenced the criminal charge. So, how is BAC measured and what does it mean?

The BAC limit is 0.08 percent for all drivers in Florida who are of legal drinking age. There is a zero-tolerance policy for underage drivers, which means that their BAC cannot exceed 0.02 percent. A person's BAC can be measured with a breathalyzer or a blood test. This can happen after the person is pulled over, or after they are apprehended and taken to the police station. It's possible that a person's BAC could be a key piece of evidence when they are charged with OUI.

The daily grind of life is not easy. Between work, family responsibilities, self-care and everything else a person is expected to do, it can be overwhelming. Add legal trouble to the list and the pressure can be staggering. Being accused of a drug crime, like intent to distribute, should immediately be a concern for the accused and their family. The potential consequences of such a charge is enough to make anyone sit up and pay attention.

Being accused of any crime is not something to take lightly. However, if a person is charged with intent to distribute any type of drug, it means that the prosecution believes they have enough evidence to prosecute for charges related to drug distribution. The charges and potential consequences for dealing drugs are generally more severe than those involving using drugs or having drugs in one's possession.

For those accused of DUI or OWI, their first thought may be to wonder about the potential consequences if they are convicted. There has been a tightening of the laws surrounding DWI and OWI in recent decades and, if you or a loved one have been accused of such a crime, you should be aware of the laws and processes surrounding the accusation. It's possible that a person would need to install an ignition interlock device in their vehicle if they are convicted.

Ignition interlock devices will not allow a car to start if the driver has been drinking. They require the driver to blow into a breathalyzer before the vehicle will start and are often installed as a precautionary measure for those who have been convicted of DUI or OWI. The installation of an IID may be only one consequence placed upon a person convicted of OWI or DUI.