Articles Posted in Criminal Defense

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Federal law enforcement agencies often conduct searches based on complex, ongoing criminal investigations. When those investigations involve serious allegations like stalking, attempted murder, or drug and firearm offenses, the legal justifications for search warrants are often contested in court. A recent Florida decision demonstrates how federal courts evaluate motions to suppress evidence, particularly when the probable cause supporting a warrant is challenged. If you are charged with a federal offense, it is important to understand what evidence the prosecution may use against you, and you should talk to a St. Petersburg criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.

Case Setting

It is reported that federal law enforcement began investigating a series of incidents between 2019 and 2023, allegedly targeting two victims. The incidents included attempted poisoning, two vehicle arsons, a hit-and-run, and the mailing of a threatening letter. It is alleged that these acts were part of an orchestrated effort by one victim’s estranged spouse to harass and intimidate her. In connection with the investigation, four individuals were charged for their alleged participation in this long-running plot.

It is alleged that on June 23, 2024, one of the victims was confronted in her driveway by an unidentified man who pointed a silver pistol at someone emerging from her home before fleeing in a black SUV. Surveillance footage allegedly captured a white Tesla—registered to the defendant, driving in proximity to the SUV both before and after the incident. It is reported that the investigation linked the defendant to the white Tesla, which had also been observed parked next to another vehicle registered to him at his residence. Based on these observations and other circumstantial evidence, federal agents obtained a search warrant for the defendant’s home and person on June 24, 2024. Continue reading →

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The Florida courts and legislature treat juvenile offenders differently than adults who commit crimes. For example, if a juvenile offender receives a sentence of over twenty years in prison, they are entitled to judicial review. The right to judicial review was the subject of a recent Florida opinion delivered in a grand theft auto case, and the trial court’s failure to elucidate that right in the sentencing order constituted grounds for remand. If you are a minor charged with a crime, it is smart to speak to a St. Petersburg juvenile crime defense attorney to discuss your rights.

Facts and Procedure of the Case

It is reported that the defendant was charged with multiple crimes arising out of the theft of a vehicle and the burglary of a dwelling. He entered an open guilty plea, after which he was convicted of the charged offenses. He received a prison sentence of 35 years, followed by 16 years of probation. He then appealed.

The Right to Judicial Review in Juvenile Cases

The defendant raised multiple grounds on appeal. The court rejected each of his arguments in turn but remanded the matter for two specific purposes. First, the court noted that the trial court must enter a written order that allows for the judicial review of the defendant’s sentence after twenty years, as required by the Florida Statutes. Although the topic of judicial review was discussed during the sentencing hearing, the court failed to provide a written order to that effect. Therefore, the court held that it was necessary for the trial court to rectify this omission by issuing a written order. Continue reading →

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Pursuant to federal law, people convicted of certain offenses may be deemed career offenders and may face enhanced penalties if they are subsequently convicted of other offenses. One example of an offense that permits a career offender enhancement is a crime of violence. It is not always clear what falls under the umbrella of violent crime, however. In a recent case, a Florida court evaluated whether a Montana conviction for assaulting a police officer constituted a violent crime, ultimately ruling that it did. If you are charged with a violent offense, it is prudent to confer with a St. Petersburg violent crime defense attorney who can help you formulate a compelling defense.

The Facts of the Case

It is alleged that the defendant was charged with an assault offense and unlawful possession of a weapon arising out of an incident that occurred when he was in a federal correctional institution. He pled guilty to the assault charge in exchange for the dismissal of the second offense. The defendant’s presentence investigation report included, in pertinent part, his Montana conviction for assaulting a police officer.

Reportedly, the sentencing court ultimately deemed the defendant a career offender under federal law, in part due to his Montana conviction being deemed a crime of violence. The defendant objected to the classification of the Montana assault as a crime of violence. The court overruled his objection and sentenced him to 96 months in prison. The defendant then appealed. Continue reading →

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Generally, people who are considered career criminals face greater penalties than those with no criminal history. As such, if a person who has multiple prior convictions is found guilty of another offense, they may be subject to sentencing enhancements. While generally, crimes are discrete acts, a person can be charged with numerous offenses for one criminal enterprise. Crimes committed from a single criminal episode do not trigger the Armed Career Criminal Act (the Act) for sentencing purposes, though, as recently explained by the United States Supreme Court in a case in which the defendant had ten prior robbery convictions stemming from a single incident. If you are charged with robbery or any other violent crime, it is prudent to meet with a St. Petersburg violent crime defense attorney to assess your options.

Background of the Case

It is alleged that the defendant broke into a storage facility in 1997 and stole from ten separate units. He was subsequently charged with and convicted of ten counts of burglary. In 2014, a police officer entered the defendant’s home and observed the defendant with a rifle in his possession. He was then charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm in violation of federal law. The defendant was found guilty and determined to be an armed career criminal under the Act, due to his ten prior robbery convictions. He was sentenced to 15 years in prison, after which he appealed. The appellate court affirmed his sentence, and he filed a writ of certiorari.

Criminal Convictions in the Context of the Career Criminal Act

The issue the Supreme Court addressed was whether crimes that are committed sequentially as part of a single event occur on different occasions for purposes of imposing a sentence enhancement under the Act. The Court ruled that they did not, and reversed the lower court ruling. Continue reading →

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If you have been arrested, you have the right to remain silent. You also have the right to an attorney. If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed for you. You must exercise these rights as soon as possible. Do not answer any questions or make any statements until you have spoken with an attorney.

A criminal attorney is a lawyer who specializes in defending people who have been accused of committing crimes. Criminal attorneys work to protect their clients’ rights, and they may also investigate the case to look for possible defenses. In some cases, a criminal attorney may negotiate with prosecutors to get charges reduced or dismissed. If you have been accused of a crime, it is important to seek legal help as soon as possible so that your rights can be protected. A criminal attorney can explain the charges against you and help you understand your options. If you face serious charges, it’s imperative that you hire an experienced criminal defense lawyer.

You should keep in mind a few things when choosing a criminal defense lawyer. You want to choose a lawyer who has experience handling cases like yours. Criminal defense lawyers typically specialize in either felonies or misdemeanors. If you have been charged with a felony, you will want to hire a lawyer who has experience handling those types of cases. You also want to choose a lawyer who has a good reputation. Ask around or look online for reviews of potential criminal lawyers. It is important to choose a criminal lawyer who you feel comfortable communicating with. This is someone you will be sharing sensitive information with, so it is important that you feel like you can trust them.

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If you are looking for an experienced and reliable criminal defense attorney in St. Petersburg, FL, you have come to the right law firm. Hanlon Law has over 20 years of experience representing St. Petersburg clients in various criminal cases. We are dedicated to providing our clients with reliable legal representation every step of the way. We understand that this is a difficult time for you, and we will do everything we can to help you get through this ordeal as smooth as possible.

What to do if you are arrested in St. Petersburg, FL

If you are arrested in St. Petersburg, FL, the first thing you should do is contact a criminal defense attorney who can help protect your rights and ensure that you have a fair trial. Our criminal defense attorneys are experienced in handling all aspects of a criminal case, from pre-trial to appeal. They will work with you to develop a legal strategy tailored to your specific situation and needs. It is always best to have an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side who can give you the individualized attention and care that your case deserves.

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Like most people, you probably don’t know what to do if you are arrested. You may feel confused and scared, not knowing where to turn for help. That is why it is important to have a St. Petersburg criminal lawyer on your side. A criminal lawyer will be able to guide you through the process and protect your rights. In this blog post, we will discuss some things that a St. Petersburg criminal lawyer can do for you.

What to do if you are pulled over by the police?

If you are pulled over by the police, the best thing to do is stay calm and be polite. Keep your hands where the officer can see them, and don’t make any sudden movements. If you are asked to step out of the car, do so slowly and carefully. Don’t say anything that could be used against you later on. Remember, anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law. It’s also important to know your rights. You have the right to remain silent, and you have the right to an attorney. If you are arrested, exercise those rights immediately. Don’t try to talk your way out of it or argue with the officers. The sooner you ask for a lawyer, the better.

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It is important to have an experienced criminal defense attorney in St. Petersburg, FL, on your side when you are arrested. The decisions made during the early stages of your case can have a significant impact on the outcome. You need someone who understands Florida law and knows how to defend your legal rights.

What to look for when choosing a criminal defense attorney in St. Petersburg, FL

When choosing a criminal defense attorney in St. Petersburg, FL, you want to look for someone with experience handling the type of case you have. You also want to find an attorney familiar with the local Florida court system and who has a good reputation. Additionally, you should ensure that your attorney is licensed to practice law in Florida and is in good standing with the state bar association. Finally, you will want to schedule a consultation with the attorney to discuss your case and get a feel for their personality and how they would handle your case. Criminal cases can be stressful, so it’s important that you choose a criminal defense attorney who you are comfortable with and who you feel confident will get the best results for you.

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When you need a criminal attorney in St. Petersburg, FL, it is essential to do your research and find the right criminal attorney that meets your needs. Not all attorneys are created equal, and you want to make sure that you have a criminal attorney who is knowledgeable about Florida law and has experience handling your type of criminal case. Will Hanlon of Hanlon Law has represented defendants in state and federal courts for over two decades and has the legal knowledge and the courtroom skills to aggressively defend the rights of people who have been accused of a wide range of offenses under Florida and federal laws.

What to look for when choosing a criminal attorney

When you are charged with a crime, it is important to have an experienced and knowledgeable criminal defense attorney on your side. But how do you choose the right one? Here are some things to look for:

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If you have been arrested or charged with a crime, it is important to hire an experienced criminal defense lawyer in St. Petersburg, FL, right away. Criminal charges can result in severe penalties, including jail time and fines. A skilled criminal defense attorney can help protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome for your case.

If you’re ever arrested, it’s important to have a criminal defense lawyer to protect your rights.

Police are trained to get information from you, and they may use force or threats to get you to talk. If you’re ever arrested, it’s important to have a criminal defense lawyer to protect your rights. A lawyer can help you understand the charges against you and your options for defending yourself. They can also negotiate with the prosecutor on your behalf and ensure that you’re treated fairly by the justice system. Do not risk your future! Always hire a criminal defense lawyer if you have been arrested or charged with a crime.

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