Should You Plead Guilty to Simple Assault?
You’ve been charged with simple assault—now what?
Maybe the prosecutor has already offered you a deal. Maybe you’re thinking about pleading guilty just to put the situation behind you. But before you make any decisions, take a step back. Pleading guilty might feel like the fastest way out, but...
How Serious Is a Shoplifting Charge?
Getting arrested for shoplifting—even for something worth just a few dollars—can carry long-term consequences in Florida. Whether it was a misunderstanding, a moment of poor judgment, or a false accusation, a retail theft charge can seriously affect your record, your job prospects, and your future.
Florida law treats retail...
Defenses for Murder Charges in Florida
Facing a murder charge is one of the most serious and frightening situations anyone can experience. Your future, freedom, and reputation are all at risk. If you or someone you care about has been accused of murder in Florida, you need to understand the potential defenses available and how the legal process...
What Is Wire Fraud and What You Should Do If Charged
You get a call from a federal agent—or maybe a letter arrives in the mail. Suddenly, you’re being accused of wire fraud, and you’re not even sure what that means. Did a business deal go wrong? Was it something you said in an email or a payment you processed online? These charges...
Public Intoxication: When Does it Become a Criminal Offense in Florida?
Public intoxication might sound like a minor slip-up—something many people assume is only an embarrassment rather than an actual crime. However, in Florida, being intoxicated in public can sometimes cross the line into criminal behavior. At Van Elswyk Law, we want members of our community to understand exactly where that line...
What to Do if You Are Arrested For Drug Crimes While Visiting Florida
Florida’s beaches, theme parks, and year-round sunshine attract millions of tourists every year, but the state’s strict drug laws often catch out-of-town visitors off guard. Being arrested for a drug-related offense while on vacation or traveling for business can be a scary experience—especially if you’re unfamiliar with local statutes and the Florida...
Medical Marijuana and DUI: Navigating the Legal Complexities
Florida’s legalization of medical marijuana has created new legal challenges, particularly regarding driving under the influence (DUI). While medical marijuana use is legal with proper certification, driving while impaired remains a criminal offense. Keep reading this blog from Van Elswyk Law to understand how Florida law treats medical marijuana and DUI...
Understanding Florida’s Statute of Limitations for Civil Cases
The statute of limitations in Florida is a critical timeline for individuals and businesses to file lawsuits. This legal time frame determines how long a party has to initiate legal action after an event or dispute arises. If a claim is filed after the statute of limitations expires, it will likely be...
Drug Manufacturing Charges: What Defendants Need to Know
Drug manufacturing charges carry heavy consequences that can disrupt every part of your life. In Florida, the law doesn’t take these offenses lightly, and the stakes are high. Accusations alone can be stressful, leaving you uncertain about what comes next. The good news is that being charged doesn’t mean you’re guilty or...
Understanding DUI and Vehicular Manslaughter
Driving under the influence can lead to life-altering consequences, not only for the person behind the wheel but also for others on the road. A single decision can turn a routine drive into a devastating event, resulting in severe legal repercussions and emotional fallout. In Florida, DUI-related charges carry significant penalties, especially...