Clearwater Criminal Defense Law Blog

When someone hears the word “injunction,” they may think of a restraining order. In Florida, an injunction for protection is the legal term often used for what many people commonly call a restraining order. It is a court order that directs a person to stop certain behavior, avoid contact with another person, or stay away from certain places. Although injunction cases are civil proceedings, they can carry serious consequences. A person who is seeking protection may need the court’s help quickly. A person who has been served with an injunction may face restrictions that affect their home,...

When a child is accused of a crime, parents often have immediate questions about what happens next and what rights their child still has. In Florida, juvenile cases are handled differently from adult criminal cases, but that does not mean minors lose basic constitutional protections. In many important ways, juveniles still have strong legal rights that must be respected throughout the delinquency process. For families facing this situation, understanding those rights can make a major difference. A knowledgeable Tampa, Florida criminal defense attorney can help protect a child’s future by...

If you are facing criminal charges in Tampa, Florida, you may have heard the term double jeopardy and wondered how it could affect your case. Many people assume it simply means the government cannot try a person twice for the same situation. While that is partly true, the law is more nuanced than most people realize. For anyone accused of a crime, understanding double jeopardy is important because it can impact how charges are filed, whether multiple punishments are allowed, and when the government may or may not be able to continue prosecuting a case. At Brunvand, Wise & Farinella Law...

When you are facing criminal charges in Tampa, it is natural to look for ways to protect yourself, control the process, and save money. One question many people ask early on is whether they should represent themselves instead of hiring a lawyer. While Florida law allows you to appear in court on your own behalf, that does not mean it is the right choice. For most people, representing yourself in a criminal case is a serious risk. Even charges that seem minor at first can lead to lasting consequences, including jail time, probation, fines, a permanent criminal record, and damage to your job...