Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Challenging Drug Weight Calculation in Florida Meth Trafficking Cases
When faced with methamphetamine trafficking charges in Florida, the stakes can be incredibly high. These charges carry severe penalties, including mandatory minimum sentences and fines. One critical factor in determining the penalties for a meth trafficking charge in Florida is the weight of the drugs involved. Drug weight calculations in meth trafficking cases can… Read More »
The Dangers of False Positives in Florida Cocaine Trafficking Cases
Imagine you are going about your day when you get pulled over by the police. Moments later, you are arrested, and within no time, you are facing decades in prison. Now imagine this happens not because you broke the law, but because of a faulty roadside drug test that indicated the presence of 161… Read More »
When Can Self-Defense Claims Fail in a Florida Manslaughter Case?
Florida law has always provided residents the right to defend themselves and others against imminent harm. This is known as self-defense. In 2005, the state’s “Stand Your Ground” law expanded those protections, allowing people to use force, including deadly force, without being legally obligated to retreat if they are justified to do so. If… Read More »
Can Homicide Charges Be Reduced in Florida?
Homicide is one of the most serious crimes you can be charged with in Florida. Whether you are facing murder or manslaughter, the penalties can be severe, including decades in prison or even life imprisonment without parole. However, if you are facing homicide charges, it is crucial to understand that there may be ways… Read More »
Not Just the Kingpins: How Street-Level Fentanyl Dealers Are Facing Harsh Consequences
When people think about drug trafficking charges, they often think about cartel leaders and major traffickers. However, in Florida, these are not the only targets in drug trafficking cases. Law enforcement officers go after everyone and anyone involved in the drug distribution chain, even in the “smallest” way, including mid-level distributors and street-level dealers…. Read More »
Can You Beat a Cocaine Trafficking Charge if the Search Was Illegal?
A cocaine trafficking charge can turn your life upside down. In Florida, the offense of cocaine trafficking is taken very seriously. This crime carries minimum mandatory prison sentences and hefty fines. Depending on the quantity of drugs involved, a conviction could even result in life in prison without parole. But what if the evidence… Read More »
What Happens if You’re Caught With 200 Grams or More of Meth in Florida?
Meth or Methamphetamine is considered a Schedule II controlled substance. Schedule II drugs are considered to have a high potential for abuse. In Florida, possessing 14 grams or more of this substance can result in a first-degree felony charge for trafficking. The offense of meth trafficking carries harsh penalties. The consequences can be far… Read More »
The Harsh Consequences of Trafficking Fentanyl, Meth, and Cocaine All at Once
Drug charges have significant consequences that can impact an individual long-term in almost all aspects of their life. Drug trafficking charges are among the most serious. In Florida, trafficking drugs like fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine can trigger severe penalties. When drug trafficking charges involve multiple substances, the stakes get even higher. If a person… Read More »
How To Beat Felony Drug Charges in Florida
Being charged with a felony drug offense in Florida can be life-changing. Florida enforces some of the strictest drug laws in the country, and a conviction could mean lengthy prison time, hefty fines, and a criminal record that follows you for life. However, facing a felony drug charge doesn’t automatically mean you’ll be convicted… Read More »
Being Nervous During a Traffic Stop Doesn’t Give Police a Reason To Detain You
If you are driving with a broken tag or brake light, you may be stopped by police officers for this. Getting pulled over by the police can be nerve-wracking, even if it’s just for something minor. The officer may approach you, ask why you were stopped, and ask for your license registration and insurance… Read More »