Author: Jonathan Blecher

WHAT ARE THE EXCEPTIONS TO FLORIDA’S “OPEN CONTAINER” LAWS?

by Jonathan Blecher | April 26, 2023 | Criminal Defense

When it comes to laws regarding alcohol and driving, most Floridians have a clear understanding of what is deemed illegal – driving under the influence of alcohol. But what about unclear notions like driving with an alcoholic beverage in your car? Can this land you in trouble? Florida, like the other states, has laws that […]

IS HONKING YOUR CAR HORN PROTECTED BY THE FIRST AMENDMENT?

The answer to this question is not entirely clear, as there is no Supreme Court ruling on the matter. However, there have been a number of cases in lower courts that have addressed the issue, and the results have been mixed. In some cases, courts have held that honking a car horn can be considered […]

WHAT COULD FLORIDA HB115 MEAN FOR CRIMINAL DEFENDANTS?

by Jonathan Blecher | April 20, 2023 | Criminal Defense

In theory, the criminal justice system exists to protect the public. State statutes establish standards of behavior and prohibit certain actions, including most forms of interpersonal violence and the possession of many mind-altering substances. Even driving after a few too many beers can be enough of a reason for someone to spend weeks or longer […]

DUI AND YOUR MENTAL HEALTH

by Jonathan Blecher | April 18, 2023 | Firm News

A DUI conviction can have a significant impact on your mental health. The stress of dealing with the legal consequences, the financial burden, and the social stigma can all lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and shame. If you are struggling with your mental health after a DUI arrest, it is important to seek help. […]

FACTORS TO CONSIDER BEFORE TESTIFYING IN YOUR CRIMINAL CASE

by Jonathan Blecher | April 10, 2023 | Criminal Defense

If you are charged with a crime in Florida, you have several rights at your disposal. One of these is the right to adequate representation guaranteed by the Sixth Amendment. You also have a right against self-incrimination, guaranteed by the Fifth Amendment. This means that neither the police or prosecutors can compel you to say anything during interrogation or […]

IS “OPEN CARRY” NOW LEGAL IN FLORIDA?

by Jonathan Blecher | April 2, 2023 | Firm News

The Florida Legislature recently passed a new law regarding concealed weapons, which has stirred up some controversy and debate. Governor DeSantis is expected to sign the bill into law very soon. SB 150/HB 543, expand the rights of gun owners in the state and allows them to carry concealed weapons without a permit in certain […]

POTENTIAL PENALTIES FOR A SECOND DUI CONVICTION IN FLORIDA

by Jonathan Blecher | March 30, 2023 | Criminal Defense

A DUI conviction can have significant consequences, including losing driving privileges, fines and possible jail time. The penalties can be even more severe for those charged with a second DUI offense. FLORIDA PENALTIES FOR A SECOND DUI (WITHIN FIVE YEARS) A second DUI offense in Florida is a misdemeanor. The penalties for a second DUI conviction […]

WHO IS THE BEST DUI LAWYER IN MIAMI, FLORIDA (ACCORDING TO BARD)

by Jonathan Blecher | March 27, 2023 | Firm News

Google recently launched it’s own experimental version of an Artificial Intelligence program for the public to compete with others already in the mainstream, such as ChatGPT, and to position themselves for a solid place in the future of AI. Google’s version is called Bard. A bard is a professional story teller, poet, music composer and oral historian. They’ve given […]

WHAT ARE THE CONSEQUENCES FOR LEAVING A COURT-ORDERED DRUG & ALCOHOL TREATMENT CENTER?

by Jonathan Blecher | March 22, 2023 | Firm News

Leaving a drug and alcohol treatment center when court-ordered can have serious consequences, as the court has ordered the treatment as a part of a legal sentence, condition of pre-trial release or condition of probation or parole. The specific consequences can vary depending on the terms of the court order and the jurisdiction in which […]

WHEN CAN POLICE SEARCH YOUR PROPERTY?

by Jonathan Blecher | March 22, 2023 | Firm News, Uncategorized

We’ve all seen it on crime shows. An officer goes to search someone’s home or vehicle, the suspects scoffs and says, “You can’t do that!” and then the officer  proudly flashes a warrant and proceeds with the search. Or, the officer wants to carry out a search, the suspect smugly says “Got a warrant?” and […]