Most people assume the time to hire a criminal defense attorney is after an arrest. In white-collar investigations, that assumption can cost a defendant their best opportunity to shape the outcome of the case. Within the South Florida financial corridors, white-collar...
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Schwartzreich & Associates, P.A., Legal Blog
What is a sentencing scoresheet in a Florida felony case?
The sentence imposed after a criminal conviction can be substantially different from one case to the next. Florida state statutes provide guidelines regarding the minimum and maximum sentences possible for different offenses. Some of the sentencing process is also...
Trenton’s Law significantly changes DUI and BUI penalties
Florida is a state that’s known for outdoor activities and tourism. This means that many people in the state travel in vehicles and get on the water in boats. What some people may not realize is that Florida law takes a tough stance on driving a boat or vehicle while...
Asset forfeiture creates a ‘two-front war’ for drug defendants
People facing drug charges are often primarily concerned about possible criminal penalties in the event of a conviction. They don’t want to go to jail or live with a criminal record. They retain a criminal defense lawyer to evaluate the state's case, suppress evidence...
Jailed without charges: Florida’s new speedy trial rules
If you are arrested in Florida, one of the first questions you may have is how long the state can hold you without formally charging you. Under Florida’s updated speedy trial rules that took effect in mid-2025, the answer to this concern can be complicated—and, in...
Understanding Florida’s Stand Your Ground law
Faced with a sudden threat, fear can take control faster than reason. In a dangerous moment, you do not have time to debate the best response — you act to protect yourself or someone you love. Florida’s Stand Your Ground law recognizes that reality. A recent case in...
What are common strategies used in appeal cases?
Filing an appeal after the conclusion of a criminal court case isn’t like getting a second trial. Instead, an appeal is a chance to have certain legal issues addressed even though the case has concluded. Not every criminal case will have an element to appeal, so it’s...
Florida has strict mandatory minimum sentences for drug charges
Florida has very strict laws regarding drugs, and it has some of the strictest mandatory minimum sentences for drug convictions. A mandatory minimum sentence means that the court can’t go below the set standard, so that reduces the opportunity for discretion in these...
Florida’s Stand Your Ground law expanded to include animals
Florida's "Stand Your Ground" law, enacted in 2005, allows individuals to use force, including deadly force, to defend themselves without the duty to retreat if they believe they are in imminent danger of death or serious harm. This law applies to situations where a...
What do I need to know about DUI manslaughter charges in Florida?
Imagine driving home after an evening out when suddenly, a tragic accident occurs, and even though you believe you were not impaired, you find yourself facing allegations of DUI manslaughter. In Florida, the consequences of such charges are severe and life-altering....