Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Possession of a Firearm as a Felon in Florida: Will I Face State or Federal Charges?
If you face charges for allegedly possessing a firearm in Florida, you may be somewhat confused about what happens next. Both federal law and state law prohibit possession of a firearm as a felon, so which jurisdiction applies? Is it possible to face charges under both federal and state courts? These are questions you… Read More »
Arson Charges in Fort Myers: How Do I Prove It Was an Accident?
Arson can lead to serious charges in Florida, even if no one was hurt and the structure contained no people. As a result, you should carefully consider your defense strategy if you face arson charges in Fort Myers. For many defendants, effective strategizing begins when they consult with experienced defense attorneys. You Could Still… Read More »
Florida Residents Face Federal Charges for Making Threats on Social Media
In the modern era, one of the most common federal charges Florida residents face is making interstate threats. It is exceedingly easy to commit this offense when posting on social media, often without even realizing what you’re doing. Because social media connects the entire nation and involves electronic signals transmitted across the entire planet,… Read More »
Grand Theft Auto vs. Carjacking in Florida
If you face charges after stealing someone’s vehicle in Florida, you could potentially face two different charges: Grand theft or carjacking. Both are serious offenses, but they involve different elements. You might have heard the term “grand theft auto” in reference to vehicle theft. Which charge is more serious? How do you know which… Read More »
Florida’s New Domestic Violence Laws: How Do They Affect My Case?
In March of 2026, Florida introduced a number of new domestic violence bills that could change the way the Sunshine State prosecutes certain defendants. If you face domestic violence charges in Fort Myers, this is something you should be aware of. To establish a more concrete understanding of your potential consequences, consider speaking with… Read More »
A Police Officer Arrested Me For Possession of Prescription Medication: What Can I Do?
In March of 2026, AOL reported that a Florida man was suing a sheriff’s office after being arrested for possessing prescription drugs. It eventually became clear that these pills were for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), but for some reason, the arresting officer believed that they were opioids. If you have experienced something similar, you… Read More »
When Does DUI in Fort Myers Lead to “Culpable Negligence” Charges?
If you face DUI charges in Fort Myers, the authorities may have also charged you with various additional offenses. One example is “culpable negligence,” and while this is a relatively common charge, it may also be confusing for the average motorist. What exactly is culpable negligence, and how can you defend yourself against this… Read More »
Are Smoke Grenade Launchers Legal in Florida?
Grenade launchers occupy a “gray area” in terms of legality, and you may be able to own one if you load the device with smoke grenades rather than explosive grenades. However, the specific bore of the grenade launcher might also affect legality. If you face criminal charges for possession of a grenade launcher, consider… Read More »
Accused of Violating a Cyberstalking Injunction in Fort Myers Because Someone Impersonated Me Online: What Are My Next Steps?
Cyberstalking injunctions have become quite common in Florida as online communications increase. If your ex has obtained a stalking injunction against you, it probably prevents you from contacting them online. What happens if someone tries to impersonate you online and contacts your ex? Could you really face criminal consequences? How do you prove that… Read More »
Can a Child Face Sexual Battery Charges in Fort Myers?
Many people (including parents) assume that children cannot face legal consequences for engaging in sexual activities with each other. While so-called Romeo and Juliet laws may protect certain children from criminal charges, it is still possible for a relatively young child to face serious juvenile offenses for these kinds of offenses. If your child… Read More »