Evidentiary rulings frequently shape the trajectory of serious felony cases by influencing what jurors learn about motive, credibility, and the sequence of events. A recent decision issued by a Florida court in a murder case demonstrates how courts review such rulings in cases involving competing theories of culpability and disputes…
When a person is charged with unlawful possession of a firearm, evidentiary disputes often determine what information a jury will hear at trial. Motions in limine, requests made before trial to admit or exclude evidence, can significantly shape the outcome of the case. A recent decision from a Florida court…
When someone is convicted of a sex crime in Florida, the consequences are often devastating. But a conviction at trial does not always mark the end of the road. Defendants have the right to appeal, and appellate courts serve as a critical safeguard against trial errors, unfair evidentiary rulings, and…
Criminal defendants in federal court are protected both by the Speedy Trial Act and the Sixth Amendment right to a speedy trial. These protections require that the government bring charges and proceed to trial within specified time limits, unless continuances are properly justified and granted. When defendants believe their rights…
In the federal criminal justice system, defendants are entitled to challenge the sufficiency of the evidence against them, the legality of their indictment, and the procedural and substantive fairness of their sentence. However, these challenges must meet stringent standards, especially on appeal. A recent decision from a Florida federal court…
In federal sentencing, defendants with certain prior felony convictions face enhanced penalties under the United States Sentencing Guidelines. When a defendant qualifies as a “career offender,” the resulting guideline range can substantially increase. Whether a prior offense qualifies as a predicate “crime of violence” is a critical legal issue that…
In federal criminal sentencing, enhancements under the United States Sentencing Guidelines can significantly increase a defendant’s prison term, especially when firearms are involved in drug-related offenses. For example, courts may impose an enhancement if they find a defendant possessed a firearm “in connection with” another felony offense. As discussed in…
Federal white-collar crime cases often do not end with a conviction and prison sentence. Many defendants are subject to supervised release following incarceration, and violations of these terms can result in significant consequences, including additional imprisonment. A recent opinion issued by a Florida court in a white-collar crime case demonstrates…
Criminal defendants in Florida have the constitutional right to be apprised of the charges against them with sufficient specificity to prepare a defense. This right extends not only to the charged offense but also to any lesser-included offenses that may be presented to the jury; if such rights are violated,…
Juvenile defendants have constitutional rights that protect them from unfair prosecutions, including the right to due process and proper notice of the charges against them. When these rights are violated, it can lead to wrongful adjudications and unfair sentences. Fortunately, Florida provides recourse for juveniles who have been improperly convicted,…