Mandell LawMandell Law2024-03-11T18:03:03Zhttps://www.robmandell.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1103537/2019/05/cropped-contact-logo-32x32.pngOn Behalf of Mandell Lawhttps://www.robmandell.com/?p=500052024-02-05T18:06:56Z2024-02-05T18:06:56Zderechos constitucionales (enlace en inglés). Por ejemplo, la persona es inocente hasta que se demuestre lo contrario. También tiene derecho a guardar silencio y a ser representado por un abogado durante todo el proceso legal, todo con la finalidad de protegerlo y asegurar un juicio justo. Esto es indispensable considerando las difíciles consecuencias que podría traer ser acusado de un delito grave, tal como se presenta brevemente a continuación.
Algunos tipos de delitos
De acuerdo con las leyes de Florida, existen algunos delitos violentos que son considerados mayores o “felonies” (enlace en inglés), como los siguientes:
Asesinato
Agresión sexual
Agresión física agravada
Abuso infantil agravado, entre otros
Los delitos mayores tienen clasificaciones conforme a las agravantes que se hayan presentado en el caso, tal como se explorará en la siguiente sección.
Algunos ejemplos y lo que se puede esperar
A continuación, exploraremos tres de los delitos violentos más graves (enlace en inglés) ocurridos en Florida y las severas sanciones que conllevan:
El homicidio, ya sea en primer o segundo grado, es el crimen con las consecuencias más catastróficas. La pena puede ir desde años de prisión hasta la pena de muerte.
El delito de agresión física agravada incluye la intención de cometer violencia contra otra persona. Cuando se usa un arma o la víctima sufre lesiones delicadas, las penas pueden incluir largos periodos de encarcelamiento y multas sustanciales.
El uso de la fuerza o amenazas durante un robo con violencia puede resultar en cargos más estrictos, con penas que varían según la naturaleza del acto y si se utilizó un arma. Este delito puede llevar a sentencias de prisión de décadas o incluso cadena perpetua.
Los crímenes violentos en Florida no solo acaban con vidas, sino que también pueden acabar con ella. La gravedad de estos delitos demanda una defensa legal competente y experimentada. Si alguien es acusado de un crimen violento, es imperativo buscar ayuda para luchar contra las consecuencias legales que pueden ser igualmente destructivas para el acusado.
Dada la complejidad de las leyes y el peso de las sanciones, es imperativa la asistencia de un abogado calificado que pueda navegar a través del complejo sistema judicial y asegurar un juicio justo. Ante la magnitud de estos cargos, un abogado no es un lujo, sino una necesidad.]]>0On Behalf of Mandell Lawhttps://www.robmandell.com/?p=499892024-01-24T20:24:43Z2024-01-24T20:24:43ZFines
Individuals convicted of drug trafficking face substantial fines, often reaching thousands or tens of thousands of dollars. The actual fine the court levies depends on the type and amount of drugs involved. These fines aim to act as a financial deterrent.
Imprisonment
The length of imprisonment depends on the quantity and type of drugs trafficked. Florida employs mandatory minimum sentences for certain drug trafficking offenses. Having these types of sentences ensure convicted individuals serve a specified period behind bars.
The severity of penalties increases with the quantity of drugs trafficked. Trafficking large amounts of controlled substances can result in life sentences, especially for certain drugs categorized as particularly dangerous or harmful.
Asset forfeiture
Individuals involved in drug trafficking may lose assets acquired through illicit gains. The state may seize vehicles, properties and other valuables. The idea is to strip traffickers of the fruits of their illegal activities and further discourage participation in the drug trade.
Loss of civil rights
Individuals with drug trafficking convictions may lose the right to vote, possess firearms and hold certain professional licenses.
Drug trafficking in Florida comes with serious and far-reaching consequences. From financial losses to losing freedoms and rights, the state's determination to combat illegal drug activities shows in the stiffness of the penalties.]]>0On Behalf of Mandell Lawhttps://www.robmandell.com/?p=499902023-12-15T22:24:18Z2023-12-15T22:24:18ZKnow your rights during an arrest
If you find yourself facing fentanyl charges, remember that you have the right to remain silent. Be respectful but assertive about exercising this right. The police must have a valid reason to arrest you, and if they do not, it could strengthen your defense.
Understanding search and seizure laws
The Fourth Amendment protects you from unreasonable searches and seizures. Law enforcement must have a warrant or probable cause to search your property. If police obtain evidence illegally, it may be inadmissible in court.
Building a strong defense
Gathering evidence is a must when building a strong defense against fentanyl charges. Consider if there are witnesses who can attest to your innocence or any inconsistencies in the prosecution's case. Document and share this information with your defense team. Your actions leading up to the arrest, such as text history, phone records or surveillance footage, can also be valuable in constructing a compelling defense.
Cooperating with legal authorities
Cooperating with legal authorities is crucial, but be mindful of your rights during the process. Provide necessary information while remaining cautious about self-incrimination. Your legal representative can help you strike the right balance between cooperation and protecting your interests.
The United States Sentencing Commission reports that 97.4% of people convicted of fentanyl charges received prison sentences. Protecting yourself from such harsh charges requires building a defense without underestimating the severity of the situation.]]>0On Behalf of Mandell Lawhttps://www.robmandell.com/?p=499912023-12-06T01:42:59Z2023-12-06T01:42:59ZAbout the act
The Federal Switchblade Act became law in 1958 and imposes restrictions on the manufacture, possession and transportation of switchblade knives across state lines. It defines a switchblade knife as a blade that the user can open automatically with the push of a button or other mechanical device.
While possessing such knives within a single state might not run afoul of federal regulations, the act of crossing state lines with these automatic blades triggers the law's provisions. The act does have exemptions for those involved in the military, law enforcement or emergency response occupations.
The act's purpose
The rationale behind the Federal Switchblade Act lies in concerns related to public safety. This concern came from the increased popularity of the knives after World War II. Lawmakers saw these knives as a weapon of choice for the youth in America at the time. They feared it would turn them into juvenile delinquents and lead to lives of crime. Therefore, they enacted this law to help stop the evergrowing availability of switchblades throughout the country.
Understanding the basics of the Federal Switchblade Act empowers individuals to make informed choices about their knives and related activities. It is also wise to know state laws since they can vary widely and do not always follow federal law.]]>0On Behalf of Mandell Lawhttps://www.robmandell.com/?p=498672023-11-10T16:58:38Z2023-11-13T16:57:40Z1. Intent and malice
One fundamental disparity lies in the intent and level of malice. Murder charges generally involve premeditation, a deliberate intent to take someone's life. In contrast, manslaughter involves a lack of premeditation and usually results from reckless or negligent actions rather than a direct desire to kill.
2. Degrees of murder
Florida recognizes two degrees of murder: first-degree and second-degree. First-degree murder typically involves premeditation and carries more severe penalties, including the possibility of the death penalty. Second-degree murder, on the other hand, lacks the element of premeditation and is typically considered a lesser offense. Manslaughter, however, does have degrees. It is a distinct charge that generally carries lighter sentences.
3. Penalties
The penalties for manslaughter and murder convictions differ significantly. First-degree murder convictions can result in life imprisonment or the death penalty, while second-degree murder carries up to life imprisonment. In contrast, manslaughter convictions lead to shorter prison sentences, typically ranging from a few years to decades, depending on the specific circumstances of the case.
4. Defenses and mitigating factors
Defendants facing manslaughter charges often have more opportunities to argue for mitigating factors, such as self-defense, provocation or heat of passion. In murder cases, these defenses may still apply, but the intent element complicates matters.
In 2021, 1,110 people faced murder charges. Although a daunting situation, the right defense may help the accused better navigate the process and avoid more serious charges.]]>0On Behalf of Mandell Lawhttps://www.robmandell.com/?p=498652023-11-10T16:56:09Z2023-11-10T16:56:09Z1. Money laundering
Money laundering involves disguising the origins of money obtained through illegal means. Typically, it involves a series of transactions that make it difficult to trace the money back to its illegal source. This can include complex transfers through various accounts, businesses or even across international borders. In 2022, the IRS identified $26.9 billion in financial crimes. Those found guilty of money laundering may face substantial fines and lengthy imprisonment.
2. Fraud
Fraud covers a broad spectrum of deceptive practices. This crime involves intentional deceit for personal or financial gain. Types of fraud include securities fraud, bank fraud and wire fraud. Securities fraud pertains to misleading information provided to investors, affecting stock or securities value. Bank fraud involves unlawful actions within banking institutions, such as forging checks or falsifying documents. Wire fraud uses electronic communication to carry out deceitful schemes. Penalties for fraud can include fines and imprisonment, depending on the severity and extent of the crime.
3. Identity theft
Identity theft occurs when someone wrongfully obtains and uses another person's personal information for fraudulent purposes. This can involve stealing credit card details, social security numbers or other sensitive data. Individuals convicted of identity theft may face significant penalties, including fines and imprisonment.
Understanding these federal financial crime charges is important to comprehend the serious nature and potential consequences of such illicit activities. These offenses are vigorously prosecuted to uphold the integrity of financial systems and protect individuals from monetary harm.]]>0On Behalf of Mandell Lawhttps://www.robmandell.com/?p=498592023-11-03T18:25:38Z2023-11-03T18:25:38ZCrossing state lines
One primary reason identity theft becomes a federal crime is when the activity affects multiple states. For example, if someone in Texas steals the identity of a person in Florida, the crime becomes a federal issue.
Involvement with federal agencies or institutions
Identity theft becomes a federal offense when it targets someone affiliated with a federal agency or institution. For instance, this could mean impersonating a federal agency employee or using someone's identity to fraudulently gain benefits from a federal program.
Use of mail or electronic communication
Many identity theft crimes occur online. If someone uses the mail system or electronic methods like email or internet platforms to commit identity theft, it becomes a federal matter. This is because federal regulations govern these communication methods.
Magnitude and scale
Sometimes, the size of the identity theft operation can make it a federal issue. Law enforcement officials are more likely to treat operations that affect a large number of people or involve high financial values as federal offenses.
Identity theft is a serious crime, and when it becomes a federal issue, the stakes increase. By staying informed and vigilant, you can reduce your risk and help ensure that your identity remains secure and that you do not accidentally commit this crime.]]>0On Behalf of Mandell Lawhttps://www.robmandell.com/?p=498492023-09-27T14:03:15Z2023-09-27T14:03:15ZLa ubicación de Florida y su impacto en el tráfico de drogas
La ubicación geográfica de Florida ha convertido al estado en un lugar popular para la importación de drogas. Dado este contexto, no sorprende que la posesión de cocaína sea un delito grave en el estado (enlace en inglés). La posesión de más de 28 gramos de cocaína se considera tráfico y constituye un delito de primer grado.
28-200 gramos: $50,000 y 3 años de prisión.
200-400 gramos: $100,000 y 7 años en prisión.
400 gramos - 150 kilogramos: $250,000 y 15 años de prisión.
Más de 150 kilogramos: Puede llevar a una condena de cadena perpetua.
Heroína y otras sustancias narcóticas
La heroína y otras sustancias narcóticas siguen siendo ilegales tanto a nivel federal como estatal. Las leyes de Florida sobre la heroína no son leves, ya que la posesión de heroína se considera un delito grave (enlace en inglés). Las acusaciones contra traficantes y distribuidores son aún más serias.
El estado ofrece opciones para los infractores por primera vez que necesitan tratamiento. Algunas jurisdicciones cuentan con "tribunales de drogas" especializados que pueden ayudar a los acusados de delitos de drogas a evitar la cárcel, ofreciendo tratamientos y otras alternativas.
Venta, distribución y fabricación
El fiscal debe demostrar más allá de una duda razonable que el acusado vendió, fabricó o distribuyó cualquier cantidad de heroína, o tuvo la intención de vender, fabricar o distribuir la sustancia. Las sanciones incluyen:
Hasta 15 años de prisión.
Hasta 15 años de libertad condicional.
Multa de hasta $10,000.
Florida tiene una larga historia de tráfico de drogas. Los cargos penales federales pueden ser implacables, pero es fundamental recordar que todos tienen el derecho a una defensa legal sólida. Trabajar en estrecha colaboración con un abogado puede marcar la diferencia en la lucha contra estas acusaciones graves y proteger sus derechos fundamentales en el proceso.]]>0On Behalf of Mandell Lawhttps://www.robmandell.com/?p=498472023-09-26T15:08:47Z2023-09-26T15:08:47ZIntent to defraud
The foundation of wire fraud lies in the intent to defraud someone. The perpetrator must have a deliberate and deceptive plan to obtain money, property or something of value from their target through fraudulent means.
Deceptive scheme
Wire fraud cases typically revolve around a deceptive scheme or plan designed to mislead the victim. This scheme can take various forms, such as false promises, fraudulent representations or misleading information, with the ultimate goal of convincing the victim to send money or valuable assets.
Use of electronic communications
A crucial element of wire fraud is the use of electronic communications to carry out the fraudulent activity. This includes any form of communication involving wire, radio or television transmission, which encompasses emails, phone calls, text messages and even social media interactions.
Interstate or international transmission
For an act to constitute wire fraud, it must involve the transmission of deceptive messages across state lines or, in some cases, international borders. This interstate or international element is essential for federal jurisdiction to apply to the case.
Reliance on the deception
In wire fraud cases, it is important that the victim relies on the fraudulent information or scheme, resulting in their loss. This reliance distinguishes legitimate transactions from fraudulent ones and is a key element in establishing the offense.
Financial or property loss
There must be evidence of financial or property loss suffered by the victim as a direct result of the fraudulent scheme. This loss can take various forms, such as monetary losses, the transfer of assets or even reputational damage.
The consequences of wire fraud convictions can be severe. Depending on the specific circumstances and jurisdiction, penalties may include substantial fines and lengthy prison sentences. Additionally, individuals found guilty of wire fraud may have to pay restitution to their victims.
]]>0On Behalf of Mandell Lawhttps://www.robmandell.com/?p=498052023-08-10T18:56:40Z2023-08-10T18:56:40ZWhite-collar crime definition
Some people refer to white-collar crime as victimless. This is not true. What they really mean is that a white-collar crime is usually non-violent. It is often an attempt to defraud in a way that causes a business or person to suffer significant financial losses. These losses can include property and other assets.
1: Fraud and Misrepresentation
Fraud and misrepresentation involve crimes like:
Insurance scams - either using someone else's insurance or faking insurance claims.
Government fraud - defrauding programs such as SNAP and other welfare programs.
Ponzi/investment schemes - investment schemes where there is no payout or the money is openly taken.
Online scams - scams requesting money in exchange for a larger amount, like the Nigerian Prince email scam.
Many of the victims of these crimes are elderly or impaired.
2: Embezzlement
Embezzlement is one of the more popular white-collar crimes. The government sometimes refers to this as conversion. It is a crime where the person who manages the money takes it instead. This can be petty cash theft or skimming large amounts of money from a business or government.
3: Identity theft and forgery
A hacker or criminal takes the intensity of another in this type of white-collar crime. This crime can take place online or by the act of forging someone's signature.
Each of these crimes is very serious and certainly not victimless. Florida is right in line with other states as to the severity or frequency of these crimes.]]>0