Brancato Law Firm, P.A. Recent Blog Posts

On October 1, 2025, a sweeping new Florida law known as Trenton’s Law will take effect, strengthening penalties for driving under the influence (DUI) and boating under the influence (BUI) offenses121. This law expands criminal liability for refusing chemical testing, increases punishment for repeat offenders, and creates enhanced sentencing rules for DUI manslaughter, BUI manslaughter,…

On October 1, 2025, the Florida utility worker law 2025 takes effect. CS/CS/SB 1386 expands protections for utility workers, placing them in the same category as law enforcement officers and firefighters. Assault or battery against a utility worker now carries far harsher penalties. What the Florida Utility Worker Law 2025 Does The law defines a…

A new mental health diversion law known as the Tristin Murphy Act will take effect in Florida on October 1, 2025. This change reshapes how courts and prosecutors in Tampa Bay handle criminal cases involving people with mental health conditions. Key Highlights of the Florida Mental Health Diversion Law ➡ Learn more about the Criminal…

A new Florida child luring law goes into effect on October 1, 2025. This new law changes how courts handle crimes involving children and increases penalties for luring or enticement offenses. If you are accused under these statutes in Tampa Bay, the risks are higher than ever before. Key Changes in the Law 1. No…

Starting October 1, 2025, Florida will implement a new law known as Trooper’s Law, designed to protect dogs during hurricanes, tropical storms, and tornadoes. This legislation amends section 828.13 of the Florida Statutes and adds stronger penalties for abandoning restrained dogs during natural disasters101. What Trooper’s Law Does Trooper’s Law was passed in response to…

A new Florida fleeing and eluding law 2025 takes effect on October 1, 202575. The law (CS/CS/HB 113) changes how courts handle drivers accused of refusing to stop for police. Penalties are tougher, and repeat offenders face longer sentences. Key Changes in the Law The update to Florida Statute 316.1935 brings several important changes: Why…

We are excited to share that The Brancato Law Firm, P.A. will be relocating our office to a new, more convenient location in downtown Tampa. Our current office in Ybor City will remain open until the move is complete. New Address (Effective November 10, 2025):620 E Twiggs Street, Suite 205Tampa, FL 33602 The new location…

For doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals, being arrested or placed under investigation is more than a legal problem—it’s a career crisis. Beyond the risk of criminal penalties, you may face disciplinary action from the Florida Board of Medicine or Nursing, hospital peer review committees, or the DEA. In some cases, your professional reputation can…

For law enforcement officers, few moments are more devastating than being on the other side of the law. Whether you are with the Tampa Police Department, Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, Plant City Police Department, Temple Terrace Police Department, USF Police Department, TIA Police Department, Hillsborough County School Resource Officer, Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office, St. Petersburg…

When your child is arrested, even if the charges are later dismissed, the record does not automatically disappear. That arrest can surface on background checks for college, scholarships, jobs, housing, and even military service. For parents, this is often one of the most stressful parts of the process: wondering if a single mistake will shadow…