What Are the Defenses for Marijuana Charges in Florida?

drug concept theme with a marijuana leaf and a wooden gavel isolated on wood background with copy space

Florida drug attorneys recognize that marijuana cases have become more complicated since hemp was legalized in the state. Since hemp and marijuana look and smell the same, the traditional odor argument no longer automatically justifies a vehicle search. Marijuana cases are handled differently across Florida, with judges in Miami-Dade and Pinellas County sometimes reaching opposite…

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What Are the Penalties for Drug Possession in Florida?

Drugs and substances prohibited, dollar, book, Judge gavel and handcuffs - arrest criminals

Florida drug possession attorneys see daily how aggressively the state prosecutes drug offenses. Last year alone, prosecutors filed over 100,000 possession charges, leading to felony convictions for people caught with substances as commonplace as prescription medications without valid prescriptions. In some counties, a single marijuana joint can still bring criminal charges despite changing attitudes statewide.…

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How Do License Suspensions Work After a DUI in Florida?

License Suspension is written on a paper.

If you have been arrested for DUI, it’s important to contact a Florida DUI lawyer right away. A DUI arrest starts a 10-day period for you to challenge the automatic administrative suspension of your driver’s license. When the officer took your license at the traffic stop, an automatic administrative suspension went into effect before you…

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Can a Drug Charge Be Dropped in Florida?

Prescription pills spilled on cash highlighting drug charge consequences in Florida

In Florida, common drug charges include possession, possession with intent to sell, trafficking, manufacturing, and prescription fraud. Possession is the most frequent charge and can involve small amounts of illegal substances. More serious offenses like trafficking carry mandatory prison sentences, especially when large quantities of drugs are involved. Sometimes, a drug charge can be dropped…

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Can You Expunge Your Criminal Record in Florida?

Paper form with “Do you have a criminal record?” and the “Yes” box checked.

You can expunge a criminal record in Florida only if you meet specific legal requirements. Florida law allows expungement for certain arrests or charges that did not result in a conviction. If you were found not guilty, your charges were dismissed, or the court withheld adjudication, and you meet other conditions, you may be eligible…

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How Are Juvenile Crimes Handled in Florida?

Court gavel next to a notebook titled Juvenile Law, representing Florida’s juvenile justice system.

In Florida, juvenile crimes are handled through a separate legal system focused more on rehabilitation than punishment. When a minor is accused of a crime, the case is typically handled in juvenile court, which follows different procedures from adult court. The goal is to correct behavior, provide support, and prevent future offenses. However, severe or…

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How Do I Establish Paternity in Florida?

Person holding magnifying glass between mother, father, and child figures, symbolizing paternity determination in Florida

In Florida, there are several ways to establish paternity when the parents are not married. One of the simplest is signing a Voluntary Acknowledgment of Paternity, which both parents can complete at the hospital or later through the Florida Department of Health. Paternity can also be established through a court order, often involving genetic testing…

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What Are Your Rights During a Police Search in Florida?

Law enforcement officer pulling over a car at dusk in Florida.

During a police search in Florida, you have the right to be treated with respect and to know why the search is happening. You also have the right to remain silent and to refuse consent if the police do not have a warrant or probable cause. If you are charged after a search, a criminal…

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What Should Be Included in a Business Contract in Florida?

Close-up of a silver pen resting on a printed business contract.

A well-prepared business contract in Florida should include the names of the parties, clear terms and conditions, payment schedules, deadlines, and dispute resolution clauses. These details reduce uncertainty and make the agreement enforceable under Florida law. Despite careful drafting, disputes can still sometimes arise between the parties. Common causes include missed payments, failure to deliver…

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