Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Understanding the Differences Between Murder and Manslaughter in Florida
One of the more complex aspects of Florida criminal law is the distinction between murder and manslaughter. Many people mistakenly believe that if someone is killed due to the actions of another individual, that is murder. However, that is not accurate. If you took the life of another person, you could face one of… Read More »
Understanding Florida Prostitution Law
It is estimated that between 1-2 million people engage in prostitution in the United States, according to Nobullying.com. Prostitution is becoming more common due to the proliferation of web sites offering escort services (e.g., Craigslist, CityVibe, etc.). But if you meet someone on Tinder and engage in sexual activity, does that constitute prostitution? If… Read More »
What You Need to Know About Electronic Monitoring
If you are convicted of a crime, it is quite common for a court to sentence you to “community control” as part of the sentence. You may be asking yourself, “is community control different from probation?” The answer is yes. Community control is a more restrictive form of supervision where you effectively cannot leave… Read More »
Five Common Criminal Defense Questions Answered
If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges, whether they’re related to a DUI, assault and battery, or drug crime, you probably have a multitude of questions about what to do next. This is perfectly understandable. Below are answers to five common questions asked concerning the defense of an individual confronting criminal… Read More »
Understanding the Differences Between a DUI and BUI in Florida
If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges for “boating under the influence” (a.k.a. BUI), you need to speak to an experienced criminal defense attorney right away. BUI charges carry significant penalties that may derail your future and could even result in jail time. You may even be subjected to both state… Read More »
How a DUI Can Turn into a Felony Charge
In the most typical case someone charged with driving under the influence (DUI) is charged with a misdemeanor in the state of Florida. This means that the toughest jail term you may face is up to 12 months in a county jail (along with a monetary fine of up to $1,000). However, there are… Read More »
What To Do If You are Accused of Violating Your Probation
Florida Courts are empowered to order a defendant to serve probation when they are convicted of a crime. Basically, probation enables a defendant to continue to live at liberty within their community rather than being incarcerated in prison. Probation comes in multiple forms and features numerous court-established requirements that the defendant must adhere to…. Read More »
Do I Have to Consent to a Search of My Vehicle?
You are driving along Magnolia Avenue in Orlando when you see those red and blue sirens start to flash. A police officer is pulling you over. Are you required to consent to a search of your vehicle? This is a frequently asked question and an important one. In general, police need to obtain a… Read More »
Prescription Drug Charges – Understanding Your Rights
When you hear the term, “drug charges”, you may envision a dealer distributing illegal narcotics like marijuana, crystal meth, heroin, cocaine or crack. However, many people are subjected to criminal charges for allegedly possessing and distributing prescription drugs. Florida is well versed in prescription drug issues given the fact that pain clinics in the… Read More »
Three Important Assault and Battery Defenses You Need to Be Aware of
If you are facing criminal charges for assault and battery, you need to retain the services of an experienced Winter Park criminal defense attorney. An assault and/or battery conviction can have life-altering consequences. For example, aggravated assault is third degree felony that may result in a five-year prison sentence, in addition to a monetary… Read More »
