Category Archives: Criminal
How Threatening to Ruin Someone’s Career Can Lead to Felony Charges in Florida
Some people think that a white collar criminal charge does not carry the same weight as an accusation involving a violent offense. But that is not how criminal law works in Florida. Indeed, many non-violent offenses carry the potential for long prison sentences. For example, extortion is a felony of the second degree in… Read More »
The Child Hearsay Rule in Florida
As a general rule, hearsay evidence is not admissible in a Florida criminal trial. Hearsay is basically second-hand information. For example, a person is allowed to testify as to what they personally observed or witnessed. But they usually cannot testify as to what someone else told them happened. Here is a simple example. A… Read More »
How Do Juror Challenges Work in Florida Criminal Cases?
Every person charged with a crime in Florida has the right to a jury trial. This right is always at the defendant’s discretion. If you are facing a criminal charge, you can elect to have the judge decide your guilt or innocence without a jury. But the prosecution cannot force you to do so…. Read More »
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 »
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 »
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 »
A Comprehensive Guide to Florida’s Anti Street Racing Law (Criminal Charges)
In recent years, street racing has been reported as a rising phenomenon in Florida. Indeed, there have been several highly publicized incidents in the Orlando area. You may be wondering: Is street racing a criminal offense? The answer is “yes”—not only does Florida have a specific street racing statute, but a driver could face… Read More »
