The state of Florida takes domestic violence cases seriously, with convictions resulting in significant penalties including but not limited to prison/jail time, court fees, fines, probation, and more. One potential avenue to explore as a defense is ‘self-defense’. At Germain Legal, we can help determine if this is a viable defense to present and how…
The criminal justice system can be an unforgiving system that holds offenders accountable (sometimes to an extreme). When it comes to crimes involving drugs, there may be an opportunity for rehabilitation from addiction, a clinical illness, rather than simply punishing that individual with fines and prison time. In Florida, the state has ‘drug courts’ designated…
COVID-19 has had a lasting and broad impact on virtually every aspect of life in Florida. From daily living, to social outings, business and even court systems. As of June 4th 2021, Chief Justice Charles Canady issued the AOSC20-17: COVID-19 Health and Safety Protocols and Emergency Operational Measures for Florida Appellate and Trial Courts. This…
Domestic violence is a big issue across Brevard County, including Cocoa, Cocoa Beach, Cape Canaveral, Melbourne, Merritt Island, Rockledge and surrounding areas. With COVID-19 some victims were stuck with their abusers, while others were the target of false or exaggerated claims. Regardless of the situation, hostility around children is never ok and abusive relationships often…
It’s no big surprise that Florida’s youth, much like that around the nation, is prone to experimenting with recreational and illicit drugs. Sometimes this lands minors across Brevard Country in trouble with the law. Below we’ll cover a few of the most common questions you need answered if your minor has been charged with a…
Believed to have been first used in 1939 by sociologist Edwin Sutherland, the term ‘white collar crime’ has since become synonymous with a broad range of fraud committed by corporations, government representatives, executives and business professionals. However, these crimes are not isolated to those in professional or corporate roles, or to the affluent and educated….
Porn charges alleging the involvement or abuse of a child are serious and can have a lasting impact on the accused. Charges often carry significant prison sentences, steep fines, and a lifelong listing on the sex offender’s list. Yet many of those accused are simply in the wrong place at the wrong time, or have…
With the increased use of K-9 units in searches, many Florida residents have questions regarding their rights when it comes to ‘nosy’ police dogs during searches and seizures. Under the 4th Amendment, US citizens have rights regarding protection from ‘unreasonable search and seizure’. It could be argued that a drug detection dog or K-9 unit…
We all know that driving a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol can result in a DUI. But what about when navigating Florida’s waterways? Turns out, the state has strict rules regarding the use of alcohol and other substances while operating a boat on open water. With summer in full swing, boat…
Those facing a felony charge, or who have already been convicted, usually have concerns about the long-term impact this may have on their lives. From employment background checks, to getting a loan, a felony on your record can have longstanding negative consequences. But how long does a felony stay on your record in Florida? There…
CHARGES: DUI SECOND OFFENSE
DETAILS: The client was charged with a second DUI. The state offered jail, and my client opted to exercise her Constitutional right to a jury trial.
DATE: November 2013
OUTCOME: Jury returned a verdict of “Not Guilty” at trial.
CHARGES: AGGRAVATED BATTERY ON A PREGNANT PERSON
DETAILS: The client was arrested after his best friend’s fiancé accused him of striking her. He was charged with a third degree felony punishable by up to five years in prison.
DATE: October 2013
OUTCOME: Jury returned a verdict of “Not Guilty” at trial.
CHARGES: AGGRAVATED BATTERY ON A PREGNANT PERSON
DETAILS: The client was arrested after his best friend’s fiancé accused him of striking her. He was charged with a third degree felony punishable by up to five years in prison.
DATE: October 2013
OUTCOME: Jury returned a verdict of “Not Guilty” at trial.
