Author Archives: Joseph Montrone
FLORIDA RISK PROTECTION ORDERS (RPO)
In response to the 2018 mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, legislation was passed in an effort to protect the public from shootings by restricting firearm and ammunition possession by persons who may be a danger to themselves or others, Florida Statute 790.401. As a result, courts can now issue… Read More »
PINELLAS PASCO COVID-19 NO BOND FOR ISOLATION OR QUARANTINE VIOLATIONS: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
On March 27, 2020, Chief Judge Anthony Rondolino signed an order allowing Judge’s in the 6th Judicial Circuit (Pinellas and Pasco Counties) to hold people who violate the isolation and quarantine orders without bail under certain conditions. First, the order remains in effect while the State of Florida is under a declared public health emergency…. Read More »
DEFENDING CHILD SEX CRIMES IN FLORIDA
During my six years as a prosecutor in Pinellas County, Florida, I investigated, prosecuted, and tried numerous cases involving child sex crimes and related offenses. I received specialized training and practical experience in interviewing many child witnesses and witnesses of child sex crimes. That training included gathering evidence for the purpose of building a case… Read More »
FLORIDA DUI PENALTIES AND SENTENCING
If you are arrested for a DUI in the state of Florida, you are facing a serious criminal charge. If convicted of a Florida DUI, your sentence will include numerous conditions such as a fine, jail, driver’s license suspension, impoundment of your car, an ignition interlock device, and probation. DUI convictions can carry serious consequences… Read More »
Criminal Pre-Filing Decision: Don’t Miss Your Window of Opportunity!
An arrest for a crime is just that – an arrest. It’s not a conviction. It means that the arresting officer is of the opinion that there is probable cause to arrest you for the charge. That is not to say that it is an insignificant event. It is significant and important. An arrest is… Read More »
SECTION 2(f): SOLICITING A PROSTITUE IN FLORIDA WILL GET YOU MORE THAN YOU BARGAINED FOR
Within the last few years, the Florida Legislature has significantly increased the penalties for those charged with the crime of soliciting a prostitute under Florida Statute Section 796.07. As a criminal defense attorney, when I get a call from someone faced with this charge, the first thing I do is look to see if they… Read More »