Monthly Archives: October 2023
How Threatening a Witness Can Land You in Serious Trouble in Florida
If you are facing criminal charges in Florida, one of the worst things you can do is attempt to intimidate or threaten a potential witness in your case. Witness tampering is itself a serious felony under both federal and Florida state law. And even if you are not the direct target of a criminal… Read More »
How Fleeing the Scene of a Traffic Accident Can Get You 30 Years in Prison
Some people panic when they are involved in a traffic accident and flee the scene. Oftentimes, the driver fears they may be cited by the police for an infraction such as DUI or driving with a suspended license. Or perhaps they did not realize someone might have been seriously injured in the collision and… Read More »
The Victim’s Right to a Speedy Trial in Florida: Understanding Statute 960.0015
While much is said about a defendant’s right to a speedy trial, it’s crucial to understand that victims also have rights, including the right to a timely resolution of the case. In Florida, Statute 960.0015 addresses this issue, giving the state attorney the power to demand a speedy trial under specific conditions. The Orlando… Read More »
The Defendant’s Right to a Speedy Trial in Florida
One of the most important rights afforded to defendants is the right to a speedy trial. The Orlando Criminal Defense Lawyers at Joshi Law Firm, PA, are knowledgeable and experienced with this crucial aspect of the criminal justice system in Florida. Time Limits for Speedy Trials in Florida In Florida, the law sets specific… Read More »
Do Florida Police Officers Need Consent to Administer Field Sobriety Tests?
When a Florida police officer suspects a person of driving under the influence (DUI), the officer may administer one or more “field sobriety exercises” or FSEs. For example, an officer might ask the driver to touch their finger to their nose or walk heel-to-toe for a specified distance. In theory, an FSE can help… Read More »
Culpable Negligence and Aggravated Manslaughter in Florida
In Florida, an unlawful killing that does not rise to the level of murder is considered manslaughter. This does not mean a manslaughter charge is something to be taken less seriously. To the contrary, in many cases a manslaughter charge–especially if it is considered “aggravated” manslaughter–is a felony of the first degree under Florida… Read More »
Frequently Asked Questions About “No Contest” Pleas in Florida Criminal Cases
When you are arraigned on a criminal charge in Florida, the judge will ask you to enter a plea. In most cases, the defendant enters a plea of “guilty” or “not guilty.” But there is a third option known as a plea of nolo contendere or “no contest.” Essentially, a plea of nolo contendere… Read More »
What Is the “Search Incident to Arrest” Exception?
The basic rule under the Fourth Amendment to the United States Constitution is that a police officer cannot conduct a search of your property without first obtaining a warrant. As with most general rules, of course, there are a litany of exceptions. For instance, the Supreme Court has long held that an officer may… Read More »
Charged With Improperly Exhibiting a Firearm in Florida? What You Need to Know
The Second Amendment to the U.S. Constitution protects your right to keep and bear arms. Of course, it is not an unadulterated right. There are a number of different state and federal laws that affect gun rights. In Florida, the exhibit/display—including a firearm—is a criminal offense. Here, our Orlando gun & weapon criminal defense… Read More »
Criminal Defense in Florida: Excluding Illegally Obtained Evidence
A police officer does not have to search your person, your vehicle, or your property. To conduct a lawful search, law enforcement officers need probable cause—which often requires a judicial warrant. You may want to ask: What happens if I am the subject of an illegal search in Florida? The short answer is that… Read More »
