Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Defending Students Charged with Drug Crimes at Orlando Colleges and Universities
Being charged with a drug crime is always a serious matter. For students attending colleges and universities in Orlando, the consequences can be uniquely severe, affecting not just their legal record but their academic future as well. Drug offenses carry not only potential criminal penalties but also disciplinary actions from educational institutions that can… Read More »
DUI Arrest in Orlando: What Happens After You’re Pulled Over?
Being pulled over for suspicion of driving under the influence (DUI) in Orlando can be an intimidating and stressful experience. Understanding precisely what to expect during this process can help you remain calm, protect your rights, and improve your chances of a favorable outcome. Below, we break down step-by-step what occurs from the moment… Read More »
Aggravated DUI Charges in Orlando: Understanding Enhanced Penalties
When DUI charges escalate to aggravated DUI, the potential penalties significantly increase, leading to severe and lasting consequences. Understanding the factors that elevate a standard DUI charge to an aggravated DUI, the enhanced penalties, and possible defense strategies is crucial for anyone facing these serious accusations. Consulting an experienced Orlando DUI lawyer can provide… Read More »
The Consequences of Armed Fentanyl Trafficking in Florida
Given fentanyl’s extreme potency, law enforcement agencies pursue fentanyl traffickers aggressively. Even a small amount of fentanyl can result in dozens of overdoses, making this drug one of the most dangerous on the street. Because of this, Florida and federal laws impose harsh penalties on anyone found guilty of trafficking fentanyl. The consequences get… Read More »
Challenging Chain of Custody in Florida Meth Trafficking Cases
Being charged with methamphetamine (meth) trafficking in Florida can be a scary experience because, often, such charges carry mandatory minimum prison sentences and substantial fines. However, there are several ways to defend yourself if you are being charged with meth trafficking. One of the most effective defense strategies in such cases is challenging the… Read More »
The Harsh Consequences of Dark Web Fentanyl and Meth Distribution
Selling fentanyl or methamphetamine on the dark web might seem anonymous. You might think that you cannot get caught if you run such an online drug trafficking operation. This is farthest from the truth. In the United States of America, authorities are working hard to take down drug trafficking networks, including online ones. What… Read More »
Can Texts and Social Media Be Used in a Cocaine Trafficking Case in Florida?
Cocaine trafficking is a serious offense in Florida. If you are accused of this crime, the prosecution is going to collect any evidence it can to build a case against you. In this century, that may include text messages from your phone and posts from your social media accounts. However, in Florida, for such… Read More »
Tampa Man Sentenced to Life in Prison for Fentanyl Distribution Resulting in Two Deaths
In a recent case, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida sentenced a defendant, who for purposes of this article, we will refer to as M.L.M., to life imprisonment. You may wonder, what was his offense? Two counts of distributing fentanyl and causing the death of two people, and one count… Read More »
Common Ways People Get Charged With Cocaine Trafficking in Florida
Florida is one of the states in the nation with the harshest drug trafficking laws, especially when it comes to cocaine. It is a common misconception that one must be involved in large-scale dealings to face cocaine trafficking charges. In Florida, this is farthest from the truth. While engaging in large-scale cocaine dealings is… Read More »
How Previous Felony Convictions Can Affect Your Methamphetamine Trafficking Case in Florida
In Florida, drug trafficking charges carry harsh penalties. If you are convicted of trafficking methamphetamine, one of the most dangerous and destructive street drugs, you could face prison time and huge fines. Having a prior felony conviction can make matters worse for you. In Florida, prior felony convictions play a significant role in drug… Read More »