Everyone has the right to protect themselves. If you ever find yourself in danger, and your fight or flight instincts tell you to fight, you can do so to defend yourself. But what happens when defending yourself ends in fatally harming another person? You can potentially face a murder charge if you accidentally kill someone in self-defense, but fortunately, there… The post Can you face a murder charge for defending yourself? first appeared on Escobar, Michaels & Associates ..read more

Facing charges of sexual assault or sexual battery can be overwhelming and confusing, especially when you are not sure what the differences between the two are. These terms often get used interchangeably, but they refer to different crimes with distinct legal implications. Key differences and penalties Sexual assault is a broad term that includes various non-consensual sexual activities. It can… The post Sexual battery vs sexual assault: are they the same? first appeared on Escobar, Michaels & Associates ..read more

Facing accusations of possessing child pornography can be a terrifying experience with a devastating aftermath. Florida takes these sorts of charges extremely seriously. Furthermore, the personal consequences outside of the courtroom can be life-altering. If you are dealing with such allegations, it is crucial to understand what you might be up against. Possessing child porn is a serious crime The… The post What can happen to you if the police find child pornography on your device? first appeared on Escobar, Michaels & Associates ..read more

Fentanyl has become a game-changer in the drug scene, packing a punch that can lead to serious health risks and harsh legal consequences. Facing a drug charge involving this substance can be overwhelming and scary because it often comes with steep penalties that can change lives forever. For those affected by this issue, understanding why it is so dangerous and… The post Beyond addiction: The crucial impacts of fentanyl use first appeared on Escobar, Michaels & Associates ..read more

Embezzlement is a specific type of theft that involves misusing or stealing funds or property entrusted to someone. Unlike other forms of theft, embezzlement typically involves a breach of trust. For example, a financial advisor might take funds from a client’s account for personal use. The key element here is the trust placed in the individual to manage or safeguard the assets in question. Protecting oneself when facing embezzlement accusations Facing embezzlement charges can be overwhelming, but taking immediate and informed actions can significantly impact the outcome. In this critical situ ..read more

In Florida, the legality surrounding cannabis remains complex and fraught. State legislators have legalized the use of marijuana to support the treatment of certain medical conditions. However, the unlawful possession of cannabis still comes with significant penalties. Facing drug charges in the state can have life-altering consequences. Understanding these repercussions is crucial for making more informed decisions. The consequences of illegal possession Florida takes a strict stance on cannabis possession, with penalties that escalate significantly based on the amount. On the lower end, it i ..read more

Navigating a driving under the influence (DUI) charge can be a complex and daunting process, with potential long-term consequences that can significantly impact a driver’s life. One aspect that can greatly influence the outcome of their case is timing. From the moment of arrest to the final court appearance, prompt action may make a big difference. If you are dealing with a DUI charge, which key stages where timing is of the essence should you consider and prioritize? Requesting a review hearing Florida law mandates that drivers arrested for DUI have only 10 days to request a formal or informa ..read more

Florida has very strict rules when it comes to controlled substances. Merely possessing an illegal drug such as cocaine, ecstasy or heroin – even if you don’t intend to distribute it to others – may lead to felony charges. However, the state can also come down hard on those who possess the reagents necessary to produce these controlled substances. It’s illegal to possess these so-called drug precursors in Florida, and the penalties can be worse than those for simple possession of drugs. What are drug precursors? Drug precursors are chemical compounds commonly used in the manufacture of control ..read more

A false sexual abuse accusation is a serious matter and can affect all aspects of your life. It is natural to feel overwhelmed once you face these allegations, but remember that you have rights and may take legal steps to counter or question these claims. Crucial steps to take after the accusations The emotional toll and potential damage to your reputation can feel paralyzing. However, you can proactively protect yourself and clear your name. Gather evidence and document everything: Get evidence that can potentially disapprove the accusations. This may include witness statements from people wh ..read more

People generally have the right to act in self-defense when they are at risk of imminent criminal activity. Those who fear for their safety due to the conduct or threats of another party can potentially engage in acts of physical violence with the intention of protecting themselves. In Florida, as elsewhere in the United States, state law protects the right to self-defense. People can potentially even use lethal force in scenarios where the threat is significant enough to warrant aggressive defense attempts. Those arrested based on accusations of violent conduct sometimes respond to the charge ..read more