Author Archives: Jay Butchko
White Collar Theft Crimes in Florida: Embezzlement, Fraud, and Financial Misappropriation
White collar theft crimes, encompassing embezzlement, fraud, and financial misappropriation, involve non-violent financial offenses that typically occur in professional or business environments. While these offenses lack the overt violence seen in traditional theft crimes, Florida law treats them with severe gravity due to their potential to cause substantial economic damage. Understanding the specific legal… Read More »
Retail Theft in Florida: When Shoplifting Becomes a Serious Felony
In Florida, what many individuals might dismiss as minor shoplifting can quickly escalate into serious felony charges, carrying severe legal repercussions. Under Florida Statute §812.015, retail theft, commonly referred to as shoplifting, involves knowingly taking or carrying away merchandise, property, or money from a merchant with the intent to deprive them of possession, use,… Read More »
When Can a Juvenile Be Charged as an Adult?
One dangerous misconception young people often have is that they cannot be charged as adults if they are under 18. In Florida, this belief is far from reality. As a parent, the thought of your child facing the legal system can be overwhelming. If you are wondering when a juvenile can be charged as… Read More »
Can You Refuse a Breathalyzer Test in Florida?
If you have been pulled over under suspicion of driving under the influence (DUI) in Florida, you may be facing the daunting question, “Should I submit to a breathalyzer test?” While your instincts might urge you to refuse, the decision isn’t as simple as a straightforward “yes” or “no.” Here is what you need… Read More »
The Harsh Reality of Fentanyl Trafficking in Florida
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for medical purposes such as pain relief and anesthesia. It is highly potent, up to 100 times stronger than morphine. However, while it was initially purposed for legitimate medical uses, fentanyl is currently illicitly distributed in our communities, often in fentanyl-laced… Read More »
The Legal Consequences of Racketeering in Florida
Racketeering in Florida involves committing, attempting, or conspiring to commit crimes defined under state laws and the federal Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO). These crimes include bribery, money laundering, drug trafficking, extortion, human trafficking, and more. If you’ve been charged with racketeering, you may hear terms like organized crime, mobs, RICO, or… Read More »
What Happens When Juveniles Are Involved in Drug Trafficking?
Many minors and their parents are often shocked by how easily a teenager can end up in jail or serve long prison sentences for drug offenses. Trafficking of even the tiniest amount of drugs is a felony, and many drug convictions carry mandatory minimum sentences. Florida law treats drug offenses severely, even for minors…. Read More »
Being a Doctor Doesn’t Shield You From Drug Trafficking Laws
When we think of drug trafficking, what mostly comes to mind are images of cartels or street dealers. However, under Florida law, even licensed doctors can face serious drug trafficking charges. Medicine is a highly respected and rewarding career, but it comes with strict regulations. Physicians operate under intense scrutiny primarily because of increased… Read More »
What You Should (And Shouldn’t) Do if You’re Arrested for Drug Possession
Getting arrested for drug possession can be an overwhelming and stressful experience. In such critical moments, what you do (and don’t do) can make a huge difference in your case. Whether your arrest case involves cocaine or methamphetamine, or you have been found in possession of prescription drugs, knowing how to handle the arrest… Read More »
Florida Drug Cases: When Inventory Searches Violate Your Rights
If you’re facing drug trafficking charges in Florida, the circumstances surrounding your arrest may matter more than you might think. Law enforcement officers must follow strict legal guidelines when searching and seizing evidence. Still, sometimes, officers push the limits, especially during traffic stops and vehicle impoundments. Many people assume that if drugs are found… Read More »
