In Florida, shoplifting is a common crime. While it might seem to be a minor offense, shoplifting can still result in harsh penalties. The penalties people might face for shoplifting convictions will depend on the value of the items that were stolen and their criminal...
Criminal Defense
Employee theft and other crimes
Under Florida statutes, the act of employee theft is a third-degree felony that carries up to five years in prison and up to $5,000 in fines. Employee theft occurs in a multitude of ways, including embezzlement or sharing confidential information. Studies have found...
Embezzlement or employee theft?
The only true difference between embezzlement and theft in Florida is duty. This is because if someone embezzles something, he or she has been entrusted with responsibilities and has abused his or her power. By contrast, an employee has committed theft if he or she...
Difference between class and individual evidence
Prosecutors who bring criminal charges against an individual must provide evidence that links the individual to a criminal offense in order to obtain a conviction. Evidence presented by the prosecution or defense in a criminal prosecution in Florida can be classified...
Should a defendant take the stand during a criminal trial?
One of the key decisions a defendant makes in regard to a Florida criminal trial is whether or not to take the stand to testify on their own behalf. There are a number of important factors to consider when it comes to the issue of a criminal defendant testifying in a...
Criminal defense and the unreliability of eyewitness testimony
Television dramas and motion pictures are populated with scenes involving dramatic eyewitness testimony presented from the stand a courtroom. Time and again in fictional crime dramas, an eyewitness makes the case. The stark reality is that in criminal defense and...
Can money laundering be accidental?
Many Florida residents are unclear on what actions can lead to money laundering charges. They may also be unsure of the possible consequences they face if convicted. One reason for this is that money laundering is often associated with large criminal organizations...
Am I allowed to refuse a field sobriety test?
An important part of life is rewarding yourself. With that in mind, you might have recently spent time unwinding with a few alcoholic beverages. In an impaired state of mind, you risk driving under the influence. Doing this can result in you getting pulled over by a...
What is “failure to appear” in court?
Persons assigned a court date for criminal proceedings in Florida must appear as mandated. Failure to appear in court might lead to severe repercussions, and the court would doubtfully accept weak arguments for failing to show up. Additionally, failing to appeal in...
Is a test for marijuana impairment on the horizon?
Medical marijuana is legally available in Florida and other locations in the Sunshine State. Recreational marijuana is not. There has been a consistent increase in the sale of medicinal marijuana in the state. The growing use of the drug raises questions regarding...
