Category: Criminal Defense

Common Crimes, Penalties, and Defenses in Florida

by Jonathan Blecher | July 5, 2023 | Criminal Defense

Drug Possession and Drug Trafficking Drug-related offenses are common in Florida. This state is on international drug smuggling routes, has a lively party scene, and no lack of celebrities and athletes. It makes sense that Florida has a significant amount of drug activity. Cocaine, Marijuana, Heroin, Fentanyl, Ecstasy, and prescription medications are frequently involved in […]

10 ESSENTIAL TIPS FOR CHOOSING THE RIGHT CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY

by Jonathan Blecher | June 22, 2023 | Criminal Defense

For example, The National College for DUI Defense has members who devote no less than 75% of their practices to the defense of DUI/DWI cases and attend meetings and seminars focusing on legal and scientific issues. With NORML (National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws), lawyers can participate in their “Legal Defense Team” and […]

Understanding Your Rights: A Guide to Criminal Defense Strategies

by Jonathan Blecher | June 22, 2023 | Criminal Defense

Dealing with criminal charges can be incredibly stressful. Don’t lose sight of the fact that you still need to explore all your options to defend the charge against you and protect your rights. Here are some frequently used criminal defense strategies:  Additionally, the defendant may be incompetent to stand trial, which is different from insanity […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

When can police search your car during a traffic stop?

by Jonathan Blecher | March 2, 2023 | Criminal Defense

You were pulled over by a police officer because they said you ran through a stop sign or maybe because your windows are tinted too darkly. As he was talking to you, he started perusing the interior of your car. The next thing you know, he found a gun under the back seat that’s not […]

How does bail jumping hurt your criminal case?

by Jonathan Blecher | February 16, 2023 | Bail, Criminal Defense

If you are arrested and charged with certain criminal offenses like driving under influence (DUI), Florida courts might release you on bail while your case goes through the trial process. Before you are released on bail, however, the court will set the terms of your bond. You might have to deposit a monetary bond with […]