Articles Posted in Legal Defenses

The AI ChatGPT Insanity Defense: Is It the Future of Criminal Law? At The Brancato Law Firm, P.A., we have seen countless cases where mental illness, not malice, was the driving force behind a person’s actions. These are often the most tragic situations we handle. Now, a new and powerful factor is emerging that could…

Florida Court Ruling Rocks Child Abuse Reporting – What Tampa Bay Residents Need to Know Navigating Faith, Confidentiality, and Florida Law in the Tampa Bay Area A recent Florida Third District Court of Appeal decision has sent ripples through religious and legal circles, especially here in the Tampa Bay area. The case, Castano v. State,…

Can I Get My Case Thrown Out Before Trial? If you’re facing criminal charges in Tampa, Hillsborough County, or the surrounding areas, one of the first things you might wonder is: “Can my case be dismissed before it ever goes to trial?” The answer is: yes, sometimes it can. Florida law gives your defense attorney…

If you’re facing criminal charges in Tampa or Hillsborough County, you may feel like your case is dragging on forever. Months—or even years—can pass before you get your day in court. But did you know that the U.S. Constitution and the Florida Constitution both guarantee your right to a speedy trial? If your case has…

When facing criminal charges in Tampa or Hillsborough County, the evidence against you can determine the outcome of your case. But what if that evidence was obtained unlawfully? A motion to suppress evidence is a critical legal tool that can prevent improperly obtained evidence from being used against you. At The Brancato Law Firm, P.A.,…

Florida’s self-defense laws are among the most comprehensive in the country, offering broad legal protections for individuals who use force to defend themselves, others, or their property. These protections are primarily governed by Florida’s Stand Your Ground statute, the Castle Doctrine, and laws addressing immunity from both criminal prosecution and civil lawsuits. While the statutes…

At The Brancato Law Firm, P.A., we are dedicated to empowering our clients with the legal knowledge they need to safeguard their rights. One important legal principle that frequently arises in Florida courts is collateral estoppel. This doctrine can have a significant impact on the outcome of a case. If you or a loved one…

Facing criminal charges in Florida can be overwhelming, but understanding available legal defenses can make a crucial difference in the outcome of your case. At the Brancato Law Firm, P.A., led by experienced Tampa criminal defense attorney Rocky Brancato, we are committed to providing strong legal advocacy for those accused of crimes in Tampa, Hillsborough…

If you or a loved one are facing criminal charges in Tampa, Hillsborough County, or the surrounding Tampa Bay area, understanding the legal concept of corpus delicti may be necessary, depending on the evidence in your case. At The Brancato Law Firm, P.A., headed by experienced Tampa criminal defense attorney Rocky Brancato, we believe that…

Understanding Circumstantial Evidence When facing criminal charges in Tampa, Hillsborough County, or the surrounding Tampa Bay areas, understanding the role of circumstantial evidence is crucial. Many people believe that without direct evidence, such as eyewitness testimony or video recordings, a case cannot proceed. However, under Florida law, circumstantial evidence is often admissible and can be…