Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Understanding Plea Bargains
It is incredibly stressful to be charged with a crime, however, you may take some comfort in knowing that only about 10% of cases actually go to trial. This means that you have a 90% chance of receiving a plea bargain that allows you to settle your matter without leaving it up to the… Read More »
Can I Stop Making Alimony Payments If I Lose My Job?
No one is excited to have to make alimony or spousal support payments, and some people may even joke that they hope to lose their job so that they no longer have to make them. However, fortunately or unfortunately, losing your job does not get you off the hook for making spousal support payments…. Read More »
Will I Be Arrested For A Bench Warrant?
If you have learned that there has been a bench warrant issued for you, you may be feeling highly stressed and concerned. The good news is that just by being aware of this warrant’s existence you are already ahead of the game and have the opportunity to avoid spending any time behind bars. Many… Read More »
Do I Need A Prenuptial Agreement?
We get it, prenuptial agreements have kind of a bad rap. However, they also serve a lot of very important functions. While they do ask you and your fiancé to consider how you would like your assets treated in the event of a divorce, they also clarify roles and expectations for the marriage, and… Read More »
Why To Consider Mediation For A Divorce
Did you know that you don’t actually have to go to court in order to get a divorce? Most people mistakenly believe that divorce has to be a long, arduous, and expensive legal process. And it certainly can be. However, that does not always have to be the case. In fact, you really can… Read More »
Watch Out For Summertime DUIs
For many people, summer is one of the best times of the year. Most people find a little more time to relax and socialize over the summer while they enjoy the warmer weather. However, summer also comes with some added risks, one of which is drunk driving. Summer is one of the most dangerous… Read More »
Can The Police Order You Out Of Your Car During A Traffic Stop?
It is not uncommon for a traffic stop to turn into an investigation of some other potential crime, such as drunk driving or drug possession. But the police cannot prolong a traffic stop based on mere suspicion of other criminal activity. Indeed, the United States Supreme Court has made it clear that a police… Read More »
How “Lesser Included” Offenses Can Affect A Florida Drug Case
In many criminal cases, a defendant may be convicted of a “lesser included” offense. For example, if a person is charged with possession of drugs with intent to distribute, a lesser included offense would be simple possession. If the jury is instructed on the lesser offense, it could elect to convict the defendant of… Read More »
What Are The Differences Between Federal And State Criminal Trials In Florida?
Most criminal cases are tried at the state level. This means if you are charged with a crime, your case will most likely be heard in a Florida state court. But there are certain criminal cases that must be tried in federal court instead. So what are the differences? Who Has Jurisdiction? Any court… Read More »
How Failing To Stop And Render Aid Following A Car Accident Can Lead To Felony Charges
It is common practice following a minor auto accident to stop and exchange license and registration information with the other driver. Indeed, this is more than a mere courtesy. Florida law requires a driver involved in a crash to take such actions when there is personal injury or property damage arising from an accident…. Read More »
