A Tampa criminal defense firm explains how to claim self-defense in Florida: the four elements, Stand Your Ground, immunity hearings, and what to do first.
Continue reading ›From First DUI to Death Penalty
A Tampa criminal defense firm explains how to claim self-defense in Florida: the four elements, Stand Your Ground, immunity hearings, and what to do first.
Continue reading ›Understanding Florida’s battery laws, types of charges, penalties, and defenses ✓ THE SHORT ANSWER Battery in Florida is the intentional touching or striking of another person against their will, or intentionally causing bodily harm. Unlike assault (which is a threat), battery requires actual physical contact. Penalties range from up to 1 year in jail for…
Continue reading ›But Only If Your Attorney Argues It Correctly Oquendo v. State, SC2023-0807 (Fla. Oct. 9, 2025) Case Summary: Oquendo v. State Holding: PTSD evidence can be relevant to self-defense claims—specifically to show what the defendant actually believed at the time of the incident. Key Limitation: PTSD alone won’t justify self-defense. Attorney must connect it to…
Continue reading ›Spencer v. State (4D2025-0023) — Second-Degree Murder Charge Dismissed RESULT: Murder Charge Dismissed The Fourth District Court of Appeal ruled that prosecutors failed to disprove self-defense by clear and convincing evidence. Stand Your Ground immunity granted. The Florida Fourth District Court of Appeal recently granted Stand Your Ground immunity to a Palm Beach defendant charged…
Continue reading ›Understanding Your Rights Under Florida Statutes 776.012, 776.013, 776.031, and 776.032 — And How to Protect Them Key Takeaway: Florida’s Self-Defense Protections Florida law allows you to stand your ground and use force—including deadly force—without retreating when you reasonably believe it is necessary to prevent imminent death, great bodily harm, or a forcible felony. Moreover,…
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