Domestic assault charges are both sensitive and serious charges which is why it is important to understand the legal resources available to parties involved in a domestic violence situation. Recently, a Hillsborough County Sheriff's Deputy was arrested and relieved of...
When Your Life Is On The Line
Criminal Defense
Former law enforcement officer, son, facing battery allegation
Florida authorities in a city near Tampa arrested a former sheriff's deputy and his son on charges related to what the police described as a case of road rage. In addition to battery charges, police have filed other charges against the duo, including a criminal...
Overview of collateral consequences to convictions
People who live in the Tampa area probably do not need to be told that getting convicted of a crime, even a misdemeanor, can carry with it serious consequences like jail time, fines and strict terms of probation. Additionally, there are court costs and other fees...
Did you stand your ground then land in jail?
What do you do if you are in a public place, or even in your own backyard for that matter, and a situation arises where another person threatens to harm you? Do you turn around and walk away? What if you firmly believe that turning your back on the angry person will...
What constitutes computer crime?
In the last three or four decades, computer technology has exploded. Many Florida residents join the millions of others across the country, and the globe, who have an online life, and you may be one of them. Individuals aren't the only ones who have joined the digital...
How is assault and battery handled by the courts in Florida?
It is important to acknowledge that there is a distinction between the terms assault and battery and the two are handled as separate offenses in the courts in Florida. Assault requires the threat and fear of an imminent force and harm on a victim, while battery is...
Can a plea negotiation keep me from going to jail?
When a Florida resident is arrested for committing a crime, they will generally be arraigned in court. During their arraignment, the court will inquire as to what plea the individual will offer and although there can be alternate pleas offered individuals generally...
Enhanced protections for “stand your ground”
Not every state permits the use of deadly force as a means of self- defense. Florida residents are fortunate to have a statute permitting you to "stand your ground." Since the law is relatively new, it is still evolving, and lawmakers are presently considering a bill...
Is there a criminal defense to an assault charge?
A number of defenses exist that may mitigate or overcome an assault or battery charge. However, the availability of each defense will turn on whether the facts of the case support its assertion. If a Florida resident fails to prove a defense and support it with...
How to handle a plea bargain
You may be familiar with the phrase "copping a plea," which is commonly uttered in crime and courtroom movies and TV shows. Copping a plea refers to pleading guilty and accepting penalties for criminal charges in exchange for not going to trial. Negotiating this...
