criminal defense attorney

November 29, 2023

Why Fort Lauderdale Criminal Defense Lawyers Must Combat Evidence-Based Sentencing

By The Law Offices of Richard Ansara, P.A.

The notion of making “evidence-based” decisions in a criminal case sounds like an all-around positive – right? After all, detention, arrest, conviction – all of that is “evidence-based.” Police, prosecutors, judges, and jurors can’t simply rely on their own whims to reach conclusions. They must use evidence. However, as Fort Lauderdale criminal defense lawyers can explain, using “evidence-based” tools can lead to substantially skewed and unfair outcomes when applied during the sentencing phase.

The Cornell Law Review opens its 2019 research on this very topic by breaking it down like this:

“Jack and Jill went up the hill to steal a pail of water, Both were caught and sentenced to jail, But Jack came out two years later.” Why was Jack sentenced to so much more time than Jill when they both committed the same crime and have the same criminal history? Because he’s male, and statistically, men have higher recidivism rates than women. If we’re relying on evidence-based sentencing, the judge may agree that Jack is more likely to offend – and give him a harsher sentence.

This is the problem with evidence-based sentencing. It relies on a range of factors – some relevant to the crime, others totally outside the control of the defendant (up to and including immutable characteristics) – to determine likely recidivism and fair sentencing.

Evidence-based sentencing leans on large datasets to evaluate the statistical likelihood between a group trait and the rate of re-offending. But it goes beyond prior offense. Some of the factors analyzed include things like:

Age
Sex
Education
Marital status
Employment
Education
Parental convictions
Family members who were crime victims
High school grades
Chances of finding work above minimum wage
Dependence on social services
Finances
Crime statistics in their neighborhood of residence

As Fort Lauderdale criminal defense lawyers, we of course find this incredibly problematic for a number of reasons – not the least of which being from a constitutional standpoint. Plus, there’s significant doubt when it comes to the scientific validity of such methods when it comes to the accuracy of using such factors to determine one’s likeliness of re-offending. Continue reading

October 25, 2023

To Testify or Not to Testify? Fort Lauderdale Criminal Defense Lawyer Weighs In

By The Law Offices of Richard Ansara, P.A.

One of the thorniest issues for any Fort Lauderdale criminal defense lawyer and client is whether the defendant should take the stand and testify in their own defense.

Although we understand the general inclination of our clients to “have their day in court,” clearing your name isn’t nearly as simple as courtroom TV dramas might suggest. It’s true that a defendant’s testimony can make or break a case. But that also means any defendant who takes the stand in their own Florida criminal trial is also taking some enormous risks. Sometimes it’s necessary, but it’s never a judgment call that should be made flippantly.

It’s important to point out that few criminal cases in Florida ever make it to the trial phase. The vast majority are either dismissed or settled with plea agreements, typically on reduced charges. Having a skilled defense attorney might increase the odds that your charges will be dropped early on, but it could also boost the chances of a trial. That’s because with a knowledgeable advocate,. you’re far less likely to settle in cases where there is weak or minimal evidence against you.

Y0u Aren’t Required to Testify in Your Criminal Case

While the court system has ways of compelling testimony from other witnesses in your case, the Fifth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution essentially prohibits an inquisition. You are protected against being compelled in any case to be a witness against yourself.

That same protection is outlined in Section 9 of the Florida Constitution, where it states that “No person shall be… compelled in any criminal matter to be a witness against oneself.” Prosecutors can’t use this fact against you for declining to do so, and you can’t be penalized for it.

So if you don’t want to testify, you are under zero obligation to do so. And there may be very good reasons your Fort Lauderdale defense lawyer might agree with that’s the best course of action.

What Do Fort Lauderdale Defense Lawyers Typically Advise?

April 12, 2023

Florida Legalizes Concealed Carry of Firearm Without Permits

By The Law Offices of Richard Ansara, P.A.

With the signature of Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis on April 3rd, 2023, Florida strengthened its citizens Second Amendment rights by allowing individuals to carry a concealed firearm (starting July 1st) without requiring purchase of a concealed carry permit. The measure makes Florida the 26th state to decriminalize concealed carry of a firearm without a permit or any requirement for special training.

This is a big deal because current law makes carrying a concealed firearm without a permit could be as serious as a third-degree felony. A conviction for this offense carries a penalty of up to 5 years in prison and a $5,000 fine. That’s a serious weapons charge which could substantially impact one’s life for the worse. Until now, obtaining a Florida concealed carry permit previously required four hours of classroom time, firearm instruction, and passing a reasonable test. Those without a permit were required to keep their lawful firearms in a locked container. Concealed carry permits allowed individuals to keep their gun under their clothing, filing cabinet, or vehicle glove compartment.

In order for these new protections to apply, the law requires that the individual:

Be a U.S. citizen.
Be at least 21 years of age or older.
Have no disqualifying felony convictions or convictions for any crime relating to violence or drug abuse and no conviction for misdemeanor domestic violence offenses.

The state *may* also deny these protections to individuals on the basis of a history of drug and/or alcohol abuse, commitment to a mental institution, or dishonorable discharge from the military.

And although the law doesn’t technically take effect until July 1st, our Fort Lauderdale criminal defense lawyers understand there will not be legal penalties imposed on individuals between now and then for carrying a concealed firearm in public – so long as they aren’t in a prohibited area. Continue reading

March 18, 2023

Why One Man’s Trash is a Florida Prosecutor’s Treasure

By The Law Offices of Richard Ansara, P.A.

Most people don’t give their trash a second thought once they’ve brought it to the curb. However, the contents of that garbage can be life-altering for suspects in criminal cases. As our Broward criminal defense lawyers can explain, so-called “trash pulls” are an increasingly common means for police and prosecutors to obtain incriminating evidence in cases – ranging from drug offenses to sex crimes to identity theft to murder. The practice is particularly popular with narcotics squads and sex crimes divisions.

Evidence obtained from discarded trash bags can be used to obtain a search warrant into your home, your office, and your person. DNA gleaned from the contents of one’s trash – on cigarette butts, bottle tops, plasticware – can be tested and used to make a case. Seeds, stems, or traces of cocaine can be used to justify a search warrant where the cops may have otherwise had clearly insufficient evidence.

Knowing that your garbage may be the target of police attention isn’t something at the forefront everyone’s mind, but it’s something to be mindful of if you know you’re the subject of a criminal investigation.

Isn’t Going Through Someone’s Trash an Invasion of Privacy?

The main question that arises in “trash pull” cases is whether digging through someone’s refuse is a violation of privacy. However, the courts have ruled time and again that there isn’t a reasonable expectation of privacy.

For example, in the 1981 case of Stone v. State, Florida’s 1st District Court of Appeal held that a defendant did not have a reasonable expectation of privacy when he placed items in a sealed, opaque trash container on his own property. In that case, police got a tip that the defendant was dealing cocaine. A police detective rode along with garbage collectors one day, and took custody of several twist-tied garbage bags from the suspect’s home that were otherwise headed for the landfill. When the contents of those bags were later examined, police found controlled substances residue. Those findings formed the basis of a search warrant, during which time police found further evidence to base a drug trafficking arrest. The defense argued the evidence gleaned from the garbage was inadmissible because it was unlawfully obtained. But the court held that items in a garbage bin set to be gathered and discarded by garbage collectors is considered abandoned property. Abandoned property is that which one intends to forever part with. When a person abandons their property, there is no reasonable expectation that it will remain private. Continue reading

February 27, 2023

Fort Lauderdale Criminal Defense Lawyer Explains Upside of “Withholding Adjudication” in Florida

By The Law Offices of Richard Ansara, P.A.

If you’re arrested in Broward County, you might qualify for a Florida criminal case outcome that involves “withholding adjudication.” As a Fort Lauderdale criminal defense lawyer can explain, this is a type of case outcome that isn’t a conviction – but it isn’t an acquittal or dismissal either. If you’re likely to be convicted, a judge’s decision to withhold adjudication can be a preferrable outcome. However, if you’re innocent and/or there’s strong evidence supporting your defense, it may not be in your best interest to agree to an outcome of withholding adjudication.

It’s really important if prosecutors offer a plea deal in a criminal case that involves withholding adjudication that you confer first with an experienced South Florida criminal defense attorney who can explain how this is likely to play out in your case, and whether it’s wise given the unique circumstances of your situation. There are many scenarios for which fighting the charges or agreeing to plead guilty to a lesser charge is actually your best option.

What Does It Mean to Withhold Adjudication?

Essentially, withholding adjudication is a means of suppressing judgment. Per F.S. 948.01, judges in Florida are empowered to withhold adjudication for certain offenses and certain defendants. A person whose case ends in the judge withholding adjudication will face some sanctions (which will include probation), but not a formal conviction (unless they violate certain terms of the agreement).

This option is generally extended in cases involving:

First-time offenders.
Individuals not likely to re-offend.
Victims who were not seriously injured.
Those NOT facing first-degree felony, life felony, or capital felony charges.
Defendant is NOT facing a third-degree domestic violence charge – unless the prosecutor has made a special request OR the court finds there are mitigating circumstances (per F.S. 775.08435).
Defendant is NOT facing a DUI charge.

Although adjudication withheld can technically be granted for those facing second-degree felonies and third-degree felonies, it’s generally unlikely unless there are mitigating circumstances and the defendant has no history of prior offenses.

Adjudication withheld does NOT mean that the charges have been dropped (i.e., a nolle prosequi). Only the state attorney’s office can do that. Furthermore, while it’s technically a means to avoid conviction, some out-of-state commercial and government organizations may not recognize a “withhold” issued in Florida. Instead, they view it akin to conviction. As to whether you’re required to disclose these cases in paperwork for employment, financial assistance, housing, etc., it depends on how the question is asked. If the question is, “Have you ever been arrested or charged with a criminal offense?” your answer may still need to be “Yes.” If the question is whether you’ve been convicted, you can safely answer “no,” at least where this specific charge is concerned.

It’s also worth pointing out that if the case for which you’re seeking to have adjudication withheld involves a civil traffic violation that you’re hoping won’t show up on your commercial driver’s license record: No dice. Federal law – specifically 49 CFR 384.226 – prohibits this.

Benefits to Adjudication Withheld in Florida

All that said, having a criminal conviction “withheld” can be a best-case-scenario alternative outcome in cases where there’s strong evidence to support conviction. Our Broward criminal defense attorney team will try to do all we can to advocate for adjudication withheld in cases where it makes good sense to do so. Continue reading

February 20, 2023

Common Broward Criminal Defense Strategies in Misdemeanor Cases

By The Law Offices of Richard Ansara, P.A.

As Broward criminal defense lawyers, we have successfully handled a broad range of Florida criminal case types – from serious felonies to minor misdemeanors. There is no single defense strategy that’s going to work in every situation. That said, there are some approaches more commonly employed than others. If you’re arrested in Fort Lauderdale on a misdemeanor charge, it’s important to seek out a defense attorney who can discuss those that might work best given the facts and realities of your case. Note: Not every misdemeanor defendant is entitled to an attorney (even if you can’t afford one), despite the potential consequences of conviction being substantial and long-lasting. Hiring a defense lawyer – even for seemingly minor issues – is the best way to lessen the blow this whole episode will have on your life long-term.

What Prosecutors Must Prove in Florida Misdemeanors

The exact criteria of what must be established to secure a conviction in a Florida misdemeanor case depends on the charge. Yet in all cases, prosecutors are tasked with showing guilt of the crime alleged beyond a reasonable doubt – which is the highest proof burden their is in Florida law.

As a criminal defendant, one is entitled to the presumption of innocence. However, without an experienced criminal defense lawyer to advocate on their behalf, odds of that person walking away with zero consequences or a slap on the wrist aren’t great.

It’s unlikely your case will go to trial, simply because most these days don’t. Roughly 90 percent of criminal convictions are secured via plea bargains. Prosecutors routinely offer plea bargains to defendants. However, just because it’s a lesser charge than what you initially faced or the consequences are less than the max doesn’t mean that a guilty or no contest plea is wise or in your best interest. You’re far better off if you have a defense attorney who can push back on the prosecution’s case. We can help explain the long-term impact of certain types of convictions, and whether the state’s case is all that strong to start (prosecutors are unlikely to cop to case weaknesses without prodding from the defense). If you’re inclined to accept a plea bargain, it’s still best to have a defense lawyer who can fully assess the particulars and actively negotiate terms most favorable to you.

Criminal Defense Strategies in Broward Misdemeanor Cases

Generally speaking, the goal of a Broward criminal defense attorney is to poke holes in the prosecution’s case, arguing things like lack of evidence, lack of intention/willful violation, or a legal justification for the action. Exactly how we do that will depend on the charge and specific facts.

That said, here are some of the most common defenses we use in Broward misdemeanor cases: Continue reading

February 8, 2023

Is kleptomania a defense in a South Florida theft case?

By The Law Offices of Richard Ansara, P.A.

“Did you HAVE to steal that?” If the person you’re asking has kleptomania, the answer could very well be, “Yes.” But is it a viable criminal defense in a South Florida theft case?

Maybe.

It’s probably only a successful defense strategy in a small percentage of Florida theft cases. But talk about it with your Broward criminal defense lawyer. Unless you’ve actually been diagnosed with kleptomania – and are actively seeking treatment or are willing to do so – a different approach to your defense may be much more effective.

What Exactly is Kleptomania?

You may have heard the term “klepto” used in reference to a person who regularly steals. That’s sort of the gist, but kleptomania is an actual mental health disorder that, as noted by the Mayo Clinic, involves “repeatedly being unable to resist urges to steal items that you generally don’t need.” Often, these items have little value and could likely be afforded by the person taking them.

Ultimately, it’s an emotional/behavioral issue that comes down to lack of impulse control. It’s a behavioral addiction, similar to those with gambling disorder, sex addiction, shopping addiction, or eating disorder. Like many impulse control disorders, it’s extremely difficult to resist the temptation or powerful urge to engage in this activity – even knowing it’s against the law and harmful to yourself, your relationships, your reputation, your freedom, etc.

These episodes can occur in public places, like a store (shoplifting), or may happen at someone’s residence, a friend’s home, a party, etc. The urge to steal may come and go in waves. Unlike most other shoplifters, it’s not about personal gain, revenge, or rebellion for someone with kleptomania. It’s solely about powerful urges the person doesn’t feel able to control.

It’s worth noting that if you have not been arrested/caught and want to seek help, a mental health provider is unlikely to report theft-related crimes to authorities – especially if you’re seeking help. You can talk to a defense lawyer in advance if you have concerns.

When Can Kleptomania Be Raised as a Florida Criminal Defense Strategy?

As noted by research published in The Journal of the American Academy of Psychiatry and the Law, kleptomania is a little unique among behavioral addictions in that the diagnostic criteria for the disorder necessitates criminal behavior (i.e., stealing/theft). By definition, they’ve committed theft, whether or not they’re ever criminal convicted. Continue reading

December 15, 2022

How Do I Bail Someone Out of Jail in Fort Lauderdale?

By The Law Offices of Richard Ansara, P.A.

“I got arrested. I need you to bail me out.”

When you’re loved one has just been arrested in Fort Lauderdale, those words can make you feel as if you’ve just had the wind knocked out of you. Likely, you have lots of questions. But as our Fort Lauderdale defense lawyers typically advise, it’s best to not to ask for too many details over the phone while they’re still in jail, as they’re likely on a recorded line. The first order of business is figuring out how to bail them out as soon as possible.

What Exactly is Bail? Is it the Same as Bond?

The whole principle of bond is to assure that the defendant will return to court to answer for the allegations against them, rather than lose the money the court is holding in exchange. Note: The terms “bail” and “bond” tend to be used interchangeably. They’re similar, but bail is money given to the court, while bond is a loan the defendant or third party takes out to pay that bail.

Sometimes, defendants are given a summons – meaning they aren’t arrested or booked and do not need to pay any bail. Instead, they are released on their own recognizance and given a court date for which they are expected to appear for (or have a defense lawyer appear on their behalf). Other defendants may be booked, but then released on their own recognizance with a summons to appear in court. Others may be booked and then given an amount right away.

How Is Bail Amount Decided in Florida?

Each county in Florida has its own bond schedule. The bond schedule for the 17th Judicial Circuit in Broward County lists the following standard convenience bond schedule, depending on the type of offense:

Second degree misdemeanor: $25
First-degree misdemeanor: $100
Third-degree felony: $1,000
Second-degree felony: $3,500
First-degree felony (non-life): $7,500
First-degree felony (life): No bond
Capital offense: No bond

The exact amount can vary depending on the specific charge, and if the alleged offenses were attempts or solicitations (in which case, bond amount may be lower) or if the crime is one of violence (in which case, bond may be higher). Some offenses, like domestic violence, require the court to hold a hearing before bond can be issued. If the offense for which the defendant is arrested involves a violation of a protection order, they may be denied bond altogether and be held until trial. If a defendant is charged with several offenses arising from the same incident, the scheduled convenience bond will be set at the amount for the most serious offense.

By law, defendants are entitled to a bail hearing within 48 hours of arrest. However, that does not mean they’re guaranteed to be granted bail or released at all.

The process and cost for bailing or bonding someone out of jail can depend on: Continue reading

November 30, 2022

Why Should I Hire a Broward Defense Lawyer for a Misdemeanor?

By The Law Offices of Richard Ansara, P.A.

Most folks know that misdemeanors are “minor” offenses (at least in comparison to the more serious felony tier of crimes). However, that doesn’t mean the impact on your life will be minor.

In fact, you can face heavy fines, jail time, and reverberating effects in other areas of your life that have the potential to plague you for years to come.

If you are arrested for a misdemeanor offense in Broward County, it’s important to invest in legal counsel. Our primary goal is usually for our client to walk away without a conviction, but even when that’s not possible, a skilled criminal defense lawyer can help negotiate the charges down to a lesser offense, fight for reduced penalties, and soften the impact on your daily life.

Florida Misdemeanor Penalties

Under the umbrella of misdemeanors, there are two tiers of severity:

First-degree misdemeanors. The maximum penalties for 1st degree misdemeanors in Florida are punishable by up to one year in prison, a maximum fine of $1,000, or both.
Second-degree misdemeanors. The maximum penalties for 2nd degree misdemeanors in Florida are punishable by a maximum 60 days in jail, a fine of up to $500, or both.

(There are also non-criminal violations that are typically issued via citation that carry possible fines and other penalties, but usually no jail time.)

Penalty schedules for misdemeanor and felony offenses are laid out in F.S. 775.082 and schedules are spelled out in F.S. 775.083.

But it’s possible your penalties could even exceed this if certain enhancements apply. This could happen because of aggravating circumstances (you used a gun, the alleged victim was a minor, etc.), you have prior convictions, etc. In some cases, first-degree misdemeanors can be leveled up to third-degree felonies – meaning all of the sudden, you’re facing the possibility of five years in prison and a $5,000 fine.

In addition to this, judges can require completion of costly diversion programs, community service, house arrest, substance abuse treatment and monitoring, loss of driver’s license, etc. Depending on your circumstances and the nature of the offense, a misdemeanor charge or conviction can have a ripple effect on your life – in a pending divorce case, child custody issue, an immigration matter, or with your professional license. You could also be kicked out of school, be disqualified for certain loans, and passed over by certain landlords.

All of this is why hiring a Broward criminal defense lawyer to represent you with your misdemeanor is imperative. The State of Florida does provide you with legal counsel if you cannot afford one yourself – but only if you are facing the possibility of jail time. And while there are many dedicated, experienced lawyers working for the public defender’s office, the amount of time and resources they dedicate to your case is likely to be less than what a private lawyer can devote. When we’re talking about your future, that’s not something you want to skimp on. Continue reading

November 17, 2022

5 Possible Defenses to Fort Lauderdale Domestic Violence Charges

By The Law Offices of Richard Ansara, P.A.

If you are arrested for domestic violence in Fort Lauderdale, there is no one-size-fits-all defense solution. That said, there are some strategies that are commonly used because they have proven effective in many cases.

When you hire a defense lawyer, you can generally trust they are going to carefully examine the police incident report, arrest affidavit, and any existing evidence to begin formulating their legal approach.

Some questions we may ask in our initial review of the facts: