Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Facing A Stalking Accusation
In recent years, stalking accusations and domestic violence charges are being taken more seriously. Unfortunately, there were cases in years past when victims were not listened to or were accused of exaggerating their situation. Today, the claims are investigated thoroughly and convicted individuals face incarceration and other consequences. If you have been accused of… Read More »
More Fentanyl Cases Are Being Prosecuted
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid. It has a high potency and is highly addictive. Developed as a medication for pain relief, the drug’s intensity is 100x that of morphine, itself an addictive substance. While fentanyl can be used medically in healthcare environments to help cancer patients cope with pain, it has also become a… Read More »
Florida Arson Charges And Your Defense
If you are suspected of setting fire on a piece of property with the intent to do damage or destroy, you could be facing arson charges. Intentional destruction has consequences, even if an individual believes they are justified in doing so. When you or someone you love is under investigation for an arson incident… Read More »
7 Reasons To Hire A Lawyer After A DUI Arrest
In the Tampa Bay Area and around the country, driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) is dangerous for the driver themselves, their passengers, and others using roads and highways. Because of this, law enforcement takes drunk driving seriously and harsh criminal consequences are possible, from fines and probation to jail… Read More »
What Is A Florida Pretrial Motion?
If you are facing criminal charges in Florida, your lawyer may talk about pretrial motions. Essentially, this is a legal document filed by one of the parties involved in a Florida criminal or criminal case. Motions can be used in an array of ways, including to challenge evidence or demand that specific arguments or… Read More »
What Is A Collateral Consequence?
Criminal convictions or pleading guilty to a crime, following a state of Florida or federal charge, can result in jail time, fines, and other forms of criminal restitution. Additionally, collateral consequences are possible. If you are unfamiliar with the phrase collateral consequence, it means another form of disqualification or penalty. Depending on the kind… Read More »
Benefits Of An Initial Consultation
Whether you are being investigated in connection with a criminal offense or you have already been charged with a crime, you are likely experiencing a lot of stress. It is common for individuals in these situations to be unsure where to turn, particularly if they do not already have a working relationship with an… Read More »
Steps You Can Take To Strengthen A DUI Defense
When you are pulled over for drunk driving or charged for driving under the influence (DUI), it can be incredibly stressful. After all, your future freedom could be hanging in the balance. But it is important to realize that not every drunk driving case is the same. There are a range of factors that… Read More »
First Degree And Second Degree Petty Theft
Petty theft is a criminal act. If you were to take the property of another person or party without consent, you could be facing a petty theft charge. And there are different levels of petty theft as well. If the value of the goods stolen was more than $100 and up to $300 in… Read More »
What Is A Downward Departure?
Offenders who are given a downward departure are receiving a sentence that is lower than the expected consequences. It is only possible in certain situations and not all offenders are eligible for a Florida downward departure, but it is important you understand all of the different scenarios that could apply to your case, so… Read More »