Author Archives: Jay Butchko

Florida Law Prohibits Open Containers In Cars
There are open container laws in many, but not all, U.S. states. An open container law is a rule that prohibits people in motor vehicles from having open containers of alcohol. In Florida, these rules are true for moving cars and cars that are parked. The language of the laws and their penalties vary… Read More »

What If I Fail A Florida Sobriety Test?
Failing a sobriety test can lead to criminal penalties and suspension of your driver’s license. Losing a license can be a significant loss if you rely on your car to work and manage your personal life. How long the suspension will last will depend on the situation. If you have past DUIs that will… Read More »

Police Brutality And Misconduct In FL
When misconduct is carried out by Florida police officers, it could be a form of police brutality. Holding liable parties accountable is essential as brutality and misconduct by law enforcement is a violation of a person’s civil rights. Securing public safety is the job of police officers, they have a responsibility to do this… Read More »

Consequences For A First Offense DUI In Florida
Drunk driving carries penalties in Florida and around the country. This is a reality even if you have never been pulled over and charged with a driving under the influence (DUI) charge before. First offenses can lead to suspended licenses, fines, jail time, and more. Consequences can be enhanced for first offenders who have… Read More »

Does A Florida Arrest Affect My Credit Score?
Nobody wants to be arrested, and there are many reasons why. For example, if you are convicted of driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol in Florida, you could be facing large fines, loss of reputation, and jail time. If that weren’t enough, the process can also have a negative impact on… Read More »

What Is A Florida ALR Hearing?
After a DUI charge, you have the right to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing according to Florida law. This right is in place because a DUI conviction can carry serious consequences in the state of Florida. It is common for individuals to face large fines and lose their driver’s license. An ALR… Read More »

What Should I Know About Florida Drug Charges?
Florida has a long history of dealing with drugs, from the “Cocaine Cowboys” of the 1970s and 1980s to the “pill mills” of the 1990s and 2000s. Because of this, today’s prosecutors pursue drug charges very aggressively. If you have been arrested and found to be in possession of drugs, you can face significant… Read More »

Facing Domestic Battery Charges In Florida
Florida’s definition of domestic violence is very broad, encompassing any “criminal offense which results in physical injury or death” to a family or household member, perpetrated by another family or household member. However, the most common charge that falls under domestic violence is known as domestic battery. If you have been charged, it is… Read More »

“Stand Your Ground” Law In Florida Violent Crime Cases
Florida’s “Stand Your Ground” law was implemented with the aim of giving victims of crime more tools with which to fight back. Its broad application has been linked to many cases where suspicions of disproportionate force have colored the outcome – but if you ever find yourself in a potentially dangerous situation, it is… Read More »

Will My License Be Suspended After A Florida DUI?
Yes, driver’s license suspension is one of the many penalties that are possible following a DUI arrest in the state of Florida. If you live in or around the Tampa Bay Area, you likely use your car to commute to and from work or connect with friends and family members for outings and events…. Read More »