Clearwater Criminal Defense Law Blog
Legalizing marijuana at the federal level
A change in the drug laws at the federal level could have drastic effects on those facing or with past convictions for a drug crime. Lawmakers on Capital Hill are currently looking into federal marijuana laws. At this time, only medical marijuana is legal in Florida,...
Can you reinstate a suspended license for employment reasons?
When faced with a DUI charge, a driver’s license revocation may be one of the most serious consequences. DUIs are criminal offenses in the state of Florida and allegations of DUI have severe penalties attached. If you need to drive for the sake of your job, this could...
Social media may complicate your DUI case
The Clearwater area has thousands of bars, restaurants, entertainment venues and other places where you can have a beer or cocktail. When enjoying a night on the town, you may want to snap a few pictures of your revelry and post them on social media. If you drive...
Drunk driving charges and your social life
When it comes to the consequences that DUI charges often bring, many people focus on the financial penalties that come with these cases, the impact on one’s career and even the emotional toll of a drunk driving case. However, there are many other hardships that those...
The consequences of receiving a DUI charge
As a Florida driver, you know that driving under the influence is a serious problem and comes with heavy consequences. In a state where the rate of driving under the influence is higher than the national average, it is important to stay educated on legal issues. The...
Why is the Rastafarian defense not effective?
The Rastafarian religion is a recognized religious organization. Generally, religious exemptions and defenses stand up in court because of the constitutional right to freedom of religion. The government cannot impose on this right, and Florida courts typically follow...
Oral surgery could lead to adolescent drug use
Dental pain can be excruciating, and many dentists prescribe pain killers understanding that their patients legitimately need the relief, particularly after oral surgery such as having wisdom teeth removed. However, in some cases, taking these medications as...
The process of applying for a hardship license after a DUI
After losing a driver’s license because of a DUI conviction in Florida, you may be able to get a hardship license that allows you to drive for work purposes. At Hoskins & Penton, P.A., we often help clients to resolve the issues that led to the suspension or...
Can you drink alcohol on Florida beaches?
It is no secret that Florida has some of the world's best beaches. Whether you are a state resident or simply here to spend time enjoying the thousands of miles of gorgeous coastline, you may wonder whether it is legal to have a beer, glass of wine or cocktail while...
Defenses against breathalyzer evidence you should know
Some people in law enforcement might tell you that a high BAC level on a breathalyzer is definitive proof that a driver has consumed a few too many drinks before getting behind the wheel. That is far from the truth. While courts do accept breathalyzer evidence, people...
