Medical use of marijuana became legal in Florida in 2016 for patients with specific conditions. However, despite its conditional legality, there are still strict regulations governing its use and distribution, even if only for medical use, and misuse or abuse of medical marijuana can lead to serious legal consequences.
If you have been charged with medical marijuana misuse, seek out expert representation from a top drug defense attorney in Tampa with The Rickman Law Firm for your protection.
Florida’s medical marijuana laws are specifically designed to make sure that patients using cannabis are doing so under appropriate medical supervision. To legally use medical marijuana, individuals must have:
Medical marijuana use becomes a crime in Florida when it is not used according to the legal regulations, and there are several scenarios that can lead to criminal charges:
In Florida, patients with a medical marijuana card are only allowed to possess a specific amount of cannabis. Typically, a patient may possess up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana in a 35-day period. Possessing any more than this amount, unless it is legally prescribed by a doctor, is considered illegal.
While medical marijuana is legal for patients with a valid card, using it is still prohibited in public places. This includes areas such as schools, parks, and government buildings. Individuals who use medical marijuana should do so on their own private property to avoid any incriminating usage.
As the top drug defense lawyers in Tampa, the team at The Rickman Law Firm has seen the common misconception that a DUI charge is only for alcohol use before driving. However, driving under the influence of any controlled substance, including marijuana, is illegal in Florida. Even if the marijuana was prescribed for medical use, patients must avoid operating a vehicle if they are impaired, or they may otherwise get a DUI.
Selling or distributing medical marijuana is strictly regulated. Even if an individual has a medical marijuana card, it is illegal to sell or give away cannabis to others, and it can result in trafficking or distribution charges, which are very serious criminal offenses in Florida.
Medical marijuana is only legal in Florida when prescribed by a certified physician for a qualifying condition. Using marijuana without a prescription or obtaining marijuana from illegal sources is a serious crime, and possessing marijuana without a medical card is considered illegal.
While medical marijuana use is legal in Florida for qualifying patients, violating the legal regulations can result in serious criminal charges and potentially devastating consequences. If you are facing any sort of a medical marijuana-related charge, the best thing you can do is protect yourself with counsel and representation from a top drug defense attorney in Tampa with The Rickman Law Firm.
If you would like to receive a complimentary case consultation with one of the best drug defense lawyers in Tampa with The Rickman Law Firm, you can call our office at (813) 370-1185 or fill out a consultation form today.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.
Even in domestic violence cases, there are instances where self-defense may be used as a legal defense. In Florida, this defense is recognized in certain situations, but it is important to understand the legal requirements and limitations surrounding it.
As the number one domestic violence defense attorneys in Tampa, we at The Rickman Law firm have the applicable experience and expertise to help provide top-rated consultation and representation for individuals facing domestic violence charges.
Under Florida law, an individual is allowed to use force in the name of self-defense if they reasonably believe that they are in danger of being harmed and that force is necessary to prevent that harm.
Florida’s “Stand Your Ground” law allows individuals facing a threat of imminent harm to use force without a duty to retreat if they are in a place where they have a right to be in the name of self-defense. In domestic violence situations and issues, this could be an applicable defense strategy if an individual feels threatened by their intimate partner or family member and responds with force to ultimately protect themselves from an unsafe situation.
This law can be tricky to use as a defense, as there are many technicalities, but your Tampa domestic violence defense lawyer with The Rickman Law Firm may be able to use it as part of your defense strategy.
In order to successfully and correctly use self-defense as a legal defense in a domestic violence case, there are certain conditions that must be met, including:
If you or someone you know is facing domestic violence charges and is considering using self-defense as a defense, the first step that needs to be taken is to consult with an experienced Tampa domestic violence defense attorney.
At The Rickman Law Firm, our expert Tampa domestic violence defense lawyers have combined decades of experience in successfully defending domestic violence cases in the name of self-defense. For a free case consultation or for more information, call our office at (813) 370-1185 or fill out a consultation form today.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.
DNA evidence can play an important role in criminal cases, especially when it comes to violent crimes like manslaughter and aggravated assault. Anthony Rickman, the best criminal lawyer in Tampa, has seen DNA used to incriminate individuals both justly and unjustly in court. If you are facing a violent crime charge of any kind, an experienced defense lawyer can potentially argue against DNA evidence being used against you.
DNA is the genetic code that makes each person unique. The only exception to this is with identical twins sharing their genetic codes. Regarding its use in criminal law, investigators can collect DNA from things like blood, hair, saliva, or skin cells that are often left behind at a crime scene and on other pieces of evidence and run it through a lab to determine who it belongs to, and, in turn, who was at the crime scene.
If there is evidence of DNA from a crime scene that matches another individual in a criminal database or a current suspect’s own DNA sample, it can potentially be used to argue as strong evidence that they were present at the crime scene.
DNA is rarely the only evidence in a case, and it is often used alongside things like eyewitness testimony or fingerprints to corroborate and build a stronger argument for either the prosecution or defense.
Even though DNA tends to be seen as a reliable form of evidence due to it being typically scientifically sound, using it as evidence can pose difficulties in the courtroom. Some of the most common problems with DNA evidence being used in court include mistaken contamination, human error in handling the DNA from the lab to the courtroom, or partial or mixed-up DNA samples.
Your defense attorney from The Rickman Law Firm, the best criminal defense law firm in Tampa, can challenge how DNA was collected, tested, or used in court. If the process wasn’t handled correctly, the data may be completely incorrect or inconclusive, and using it as evidence might not hold up.
If DNA evidence is being used against you in a violent crime case, the best way to protect yourself is to consult with an expert. An experienced defense attorney, like Anthony Rickman, the best criminal lawyer in Tampa, will meticulously examine any evidence, including how it was collected and handled, and know how best to look for any errors that could weaken the prosecution’s case while strengthening your defense.
The Rickman Law Firm is proud to be the best criminal defense law firm in Tampa. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for you. If you would like to request a complimentary case consultation, call our office at (813) 370-1185 or fill out a consultation form today.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.
A restraining order, also called a protective order, is a legal order that limits a person’s contact with another individual. These orders are often issued in cases involving domestic violence, harassment, or threats.
Whether you are facing charges of assault, battery, harassment, or domestic violence, the top Tampa criminal lawyers with The Rickman Law Firm want you to know exactly how a restraining order can potentially affect your case.
A restraining order is a court order that, in short terms, requires someone to stay away from another person, their home, or their workplace. The order can be either temporary or long-term, depending on the situation, and violating this order can lead to even more legal trouble, especially without guidance from your Tampa criminal defense lawyer with The Rickman Law Firm.
If a restraining order has been placed against you, the prosecution may try to use it as proof that you are a threat to the alleged victim, which can ultimately make it harder to maintain a strong defense
If you violate the restraining order by contacting the person in any way, you could face extra charges, fines, or even jail time.
During court proceedings, judges consider any standing restraining orders when deciding on bail and sentencing. Having a restraining order against you may potentially lead to stricter conditions or harsher penalties.
The person who initially requested the restraining order may testify against you in court. Whatever they may claim, combined with the active restraining order, can ultimately make their case stronger and result in harsher penalties for you.
Prosecutors may be less likely to offer a favorable plea deal if a restraining order is involved and may see it as evidence of a serious crime to be punished.
If you have a restraining order against you while facing criminal charges, it’s important to follow the order and avoid further legal trouble. An experienced Tampa criminal defense lawyer with The Rickman Law Firm can help you understand your rights and develop a strong defense.
At The Rickman Law Firm, we have the knowledge and experience to handle cases involving restraining orders and criminal charges. For a free case consultation, call our office at (813) 370-1185 or fill out a consultation form today.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.
Whether it’s direct evidence or circumstantial evidence, judges must assess all pieces of evidence during a criminal case, as they could help determine the most applicable sentencing or outcome. However, circumstantial evidence can potentially result in an individual initially being charged with a crime, even if it does not directly prove that a crime was committed.
If you find yourself being charged with a crime, consulting with a skilled Tampa criminal attorney with The Rickman Law Firm can help set up your defense to be as strong as possible and avoid a conviction.
Circumstantial evidence is evidence that indirectly suggests a fact or event occurred that does not directly prove it. It results in inferences that can be drawn from various circumstances surrounding a crime, as opposed to direct evidence, which directly links the defendant to the crime.
For example, in a robbery case, circumstantial evidence could include fingerprints found at the scene or stolen property being discovered in the suspect’s possession. While none of these pieces of evidence may prove by themselves that the individual specifically committed the crime, when they are considered together, they have the potential to form a compelling case.
Considering all the above, yes, you can be charged with a crime based on circumstantial evidence alone. However, whether or not you can be convicted on the strength of circumstantial evidence is another matter entirely.
For a criminal charge to be brought against an individual, the prosecution must show there is probable cause to believe that the defendant committed the crime. Probable cause can be established through circumstantial evidence, especially when it creates a strong narrative of guilt in the court, but further determination typically requires more than just circumstantial evidence.
While circumstantial evidence can lead to an individual being charged with an offense, a conviction requires proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. In many cases, circumstantial evidence can be as strong as direct evidence.
For example, a defendant’s presence at the scene of a crime, their behavior before and after the event, and forensic evidence such as DNA or fingerprints can all be powerful circumstantial indicators. However, the prosecution must connect these elements logically to the crime to demonstrate guilt, and the judge may require other forms of evidence to help substantiate their argument.
Circumstantial evidence can sometimes lead to misleading conclusions, which is why it must be carefully examined and interpreted in the courtroom. Your Tampa criminal defense attorney with The Rickman Law Firm can challenge circumstantial evidence brought against you, highlight any potential alternative explanations for the circumstances, or point out any inconsistencies in the prosecution’s case.
While it is possible to be charged with a crime based solely on circumstantial evidence, a conviction requires more than just circumstantial evidence. If you find yourself facing charges based on circumstantial evidence, contact The Rickman Law Firm for a consultation with one of the leading criminal attorneys in Tampa.
At The Rickman Law Firm, we are recognized for excellence. Call our office at (813) 370-1185 or fill out a consultation form for a complimentary case consultation with an experienced Tampa criminal defense attorney.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.
When it comes to Florida courts and cases that involve children, even indirectly, the courts will always work to protect the child’s well-being first and foremost. That being said, an allegation of domestic violence, even if from the past, can have a substantial effect on a judge’s decision.
The top Tampa domestic violence defense attorneys with The Rickman Law Firm are well-versed in the ins and outs of the consequences of domestic violence allegations and how to handle them in court.
The court always puts the child’s safety and well-being first. If there are past accusations of domestic violence, the court will look at whether these could affect the child’s emotional or physical safety.
If you have previous allegations of domestic violence and are currently in a custody battle, consulting with an experienced domestic violence defense lawyer in Tampa with The Rickman Law Firm is one of the best steps to take during your case.
Even if domestic violence allegations are old or not proven to be correct, they can still bear a strong influence on custody decisions. The court will consider any history of abuse, current-standing protective orders, or previous convictions. The parent’s overall ability to take care of the child and the child’s relationship with that parent are also assessed.
During your court proceedings, a judge may still review the details of your allegations and any related protective orders or evidence. Before making any custody-related decision, your Tampa domestic violence defense attorneys with The Rickman Law Firm will work to provide the strongest defense possible to achieve the most favorable outcome.
If you have any past domestic violence allegations, one of the best ways to protect yourself in court is to prove that you are responsible and can care for your child – or that you have changed since the allegations occurred. This could potentially include:
If you can take the right measures to showcase your best qualities and capabilities, it can help show the court that you are committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for the child.
Past domestic violence allegations can affect a custody case, but at the end of the day, they are only one factor the court will consider in your case. If you are currently in a custody dispute where this is a concern, it is extremely important to work with an experienced attorney who can skillfully help you navigate the process and protect your rights.
Protect yourself and your child with expert representation from a Tampa domestic violence defense lawyer with The Rickman Law Firm. Call our office at (813) 370-1185 or fill out a consultation form for a free case consultation.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.
When determining sentencing, judges are faced with a wide variety of details that can influence the severity of their decision. Aggravating factors are something that you and your Tampa criminal defense lawyer with The Rickman Law Firm need to assess and consider throughout the entirety of your court proceedings.
An aggravating factor is any circumstance or element that can increase the severity of a criminal sentence. Aggravating factors are considered during sentencing to determine the overall severity of an individual’s sentence.
As the leading criminal lawyers in Tampa, these are the most common aggravating factors that can influence sentencing:
Once an individual is found guilty of a crime, the judge will set aside time to evaluate and weigh the aggravating factors to create a sentence they feel is the most appropriate.
For example, if an individual is being charged with first-degree murder and the victim was a pregnant woman, there was premeditation, and there was a gun involved, these aggravating factors will most likely increase the severity of the already terrible consequences. In some courts, the judge may then choose to impose maximum sentencing or life in prison.
Your Tampa criminal defense lawyer with The Rickman Law Firm will determine the best course of action depending on what any potentially aggravating factors are to develop the most appropriate and effective defense strategy possible.
Aggravating factors can lead to harsher sentences, and it is extremely important to know how they will be applied to a case. A skilled Tampa criminal lawyer with The Rickman Law Firm can help identify possible aggravating factors and work to minimize their impact on your sentencing.
At The Rickman Law Firm, we are dedicated to you and are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call our office at (813) 370-1185 or fill out a consultation form for a free case consultation today.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.