Laws about marijuana possession are changing rapidly. States across the country are moving to legalize medical and, in some cases, recreational uses of the drug. But in Florida, state law still prohibits possession, except for medical use, and imposes some surprisingly stiff penalties. Even for possession of 20 grams or less, a conviction may result […]
In April of 2016, in a move lauded by many civil liberties groups and even some law enforcement agencies, Gov. Scott signed a new bill into law significantly reforming Florida’s civil forfeiture statute. The State of Florida is authorized to seize property connected to illegal activity through its civil forfeiture statute, Florida Statutes §§ 932.701-704. […]
When law enforcement officers claim they smell marijuana during a traffic stop, they have the right, in the absence of any other circumstances, to search the individuals in the car as well as the interior of the car, pursuant to the holding in State v. Betz, 815 So. 2d 627 (Fla. 2002), a case decided by […]
Spring is well upon us. Thus, it’s the time of year when college students and older travelers alike make their way to Florida for Spring Break and vacation. However, throughout the state of Florida, from South Beach to Daytona Beach, things seem to have gotten a little crazier and more out of control in 2016. […]
Perhaps because it’s a peninsula surrounded by ocean, Florida attracts not only countless tourists, but also smugglers, including and especially those that deal in drugs like marijuana, cocaine, and heroin. Many folks vacationing in the Sunshine State are not shy about pursuing their perception that drugs are readily and cheaply available in Florida. Unfortunately, what […]