On behalf of Mike G Law posted in Uncategorized on Thursday, July 2, 2020
Being forced to register as a sex offender can make almost everything in your life more difficult. It can impact where you can live, who will rent or sell to you, whether you can get a loan and your chances of securing a job. The restrictions placed on those who have to register vary by county and municipality and essentially enhance the term of punishment handed down after a conviction. A mistake can lead to lifelong punishment that isn’t necessarily in line with the initial act. Want to learn how to get off the sex offender registry? Here’s what you need to know about getting off the list in Florida. What is the Sex Offender Registry? The Florida Sex Offender... Read More »
On behalf of Mike G Law posted in Uncategorized on Thursday, June 18, 2020
A criminal record can be like a weight hanging around your neck. It inhibits your ability to get a better job or house, and even if you’re able to find employment, it may not be in your chosen field. Imagine, then, what having your record “erased” could be like? While there’s no easy way to clear your record, Florida law does allow for some individuals who have been charged or convicted of particular offenses to have their records sealed or expunged. What is Sealing? When a record is sealed, it is no longer available to the public. This does not mean that it ceases to exist, however. Law enforcement and some government agencies will still be able to access your... Read More »
On behalf of Mike G Law posted in Court Hearings on Thursday, June 4, 2020
Divorces can bring out the worst in people. They can lead to people who once declared their love for each other publicly fighting, hiding assets, making threats—and perhaps worst of all—attempting to turn their children against each other. This latter offense is especially troubling because it can have a lifelong impact on everyone involved. It breaks down trust and instills fear and lies. Unfortunately, it’s not just divorces that can feature lies. Adults with bad intentions can train children to tell lies in a variety of situations and for a variety of reasons. In addition, sometimes children say things that they don’t understand but which they think adults want to hear. It can get pretty murky, especially when the things... Read More »
On behalf of Mike G Law posted in Criminal Defense on Thursday, May 21, 2020
There are two main ways an individual can be charged with a gun crime in Florida: Improperly purchasing, possessing, or using a gun (weapons offenses) Using a gun during the commission of another offense (weapon enhancements) In this article, we’ll cover the different firearm crimes you can be charged with in Florida, what the punishments for those crimes may be, the 10-20-Life law, and what you can do if you’re charged with a gun crime. Improperly Purchasing, Possessing, or Using a Gun When it comes to gun crimes in Florida, there are five offenses that are the most common. Carrying a Concealed Firearm Without a License In order to own and carry a gun, you must go through the proper... Read More »
On behalf of Mike G Law posted in Civil Rights on Wednesday, May 6, 2020
A lot has changed over the past several weeks. However, even during times of distress, it’s important to ensure that those in power adhere to the rule of law. A pandemic is not carte blanche to override established legal or operating procedures. The previously enacted curfew in Hillsborough County is one such governmental overreach—and it was lawyers and regular citizens that raced to the front line to ensure that our liberties were protected. Hillsborough County Overnight Curfew In response to hearing that groups were still gathering despite statewide safer at home orders, the Emergency Policy Group voted 5 to 3 to establish a mandatory county-wide curfew as opposed to adopting its own stay at home order. This curfew went into... Read More »
On behalf of Mike G Law posted in Court Hearings on Thursday, April 30, 2020
As the nation works toward reopening the economy over the coming months, the Florida court system is also trying to determine how to move forward while simultaneously protecting the individuals who work in the justice system and those who are entering the system. For now, the criminal process remains different than before the pandemic hit our shores, and what it may look like in the coming months remains uncertain. At the same time, it is important that those who are charged with a crime are granted swift justice. In fact, it’s enshrined in the constitution. The Florida court system is aware of this and has enacted policies to help ensure that the court can remain in session while still keeping... Read More »
In many ways, Florida seems like a refuge for gun enthusiasts. With a strong Stand Your Ground law, an open carry law on the books, a healthy hunting grounds, Florida has a healthy relationship with firearms. However, the state also takes the unlawful possession or use of firearms very seriously. If you are charged with a criminal offense and are believed to have had a firearm in your possession or to have used a firearm in the commission of the offense, the severity of your charges may be increased, leading to a lengthier sentence if you are found guilty. In this article, we’ll discuss how firearms affect your sentencing and the best way to protect yourself should this situation ever... Read More »
On behalf of Mike G Law posted in Criminal Defense on Thursday, April 9, 2020
If you’re charged with embezzlement in Florida, it’s crucial that you take it seriously. Part of that means understanding what you’re charged with and what your next steps should be. What is Embezzlement? Embezzlement occurs when an individual entrusted with money or property because of their position (employment) or relationships takes ownership of or “borrows” that money or property without permission of the owner. A few key elements to an embezzlement charge include the way something is stolen, even if it stays visible or in the presence of the owner. If someone has a claim to the money, for example, and someone is using it, the owner might not know if any is missing if they’re not keeping track. In... Read More »
Most states have laws to ward off citizens from hiring prostitutes, a profession which is illegal in all 50 states. Basically, by punishing the Johns that solicit sexual services, the state aims to somehow curb that industry (whether that’s working is another story). Regardless of whether you think escort services should be legal or not, understanding solicitation laws in Florida can help keep you out of jail. In this article, we’ll cover the actual meaning of solicitation in Florida, what it entails and what can happen if you’re charged with solicitation. For the most up-to-date legal advice, however, you should contact Mike G Law. What is Considered Solicitation in Florida? In the state of Florida, solicitation is fairly clear and... Read More »
Being charged with rape can ruin your life. Even if you’re found not guilty, people may treat you differently. Case in point: Kobe Bryant. Talk of his untimely death in a helicopter accident inevitably led to a rehashing of rape charges stemming from a 2003 allegation. The case was dropped because the alleged victim refused to testify. He was never tried for sexual assault (though he did settle a civil lawsuit with the alleged victim), however, he was quickly labeled a rapist. Even after his death, there are plenty of articles about the alleged crime despite the case being dropped. And that’s a man with millions in the bank. How can a regular Joe fight rape charges? Rape, or sexual... Read More »
