Articles Posted in Criminal Law

Tax evasion is a serious federal offense that can lead to hefty fines, imprisonment, and lasting damage to one’s reputation. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the Department of Justice (DOJ) aggressively prosecute individuals and businesses suspected of intentionally evading tax obligations. This post explores what constitutes tax evasion, key federal laws, notable cases, and…

Retail theft has been a growing concern across the country, and Florida is cracking down with a new law that imposes harsher penalties for organized retail theft. As of October 1, 2024, the state has significantly increased criminal penalties for those involved in retail theft rings. At The Bonderud Law Firm, we are committed to…

Florida has recently strengthened its penalties for driving without a valid driver’s license. Under the updated law, a second or subsequent conviction for this offense is now considered an enhanceable offense, meaning that repeat violations will lead to more severe penalties. What Has Changed? Previously, driving without a valid driver’s license was typically treated as…

If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges in Florida, it is crucial to understand whether the case is being prosecuted in state court or federal court. While both systems follow legal principles of due process and constitutional rights, they differ significantly in terms of jurisdiction, laws, procedures, and potential penalties. Here’s what…

When an individual is charged with a federal crime, one of the first legal hurdles they may face is a pre-trial detention hearing. At this hearing, a U.S. Magistrate Judge determines whether the accused should be released pending trial or detained. Unlike state bond hearings, federal pre-trial detention decisions follow strict statutory guidelines under the…

In January 2025, Florida enacted the “Halo Law,” introducing a 25-foot buffer zone around law enforcement officers, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel. This legislation aims to enhance the safety of first responders by limiting public proximity during active duties. However, it has sparked debates concerning potential conflicts with First Amendment rights, particularly regarding freedom of…

Introduction The Fifth District Court of Appeal of Florida recently issued a ruling in Erica Black v. State of Florida, reversing and remanding her sentencing due to a misunderstanding regarding the nature of her plea agreement. Black, who was convicted of aggravated battery and animal cruelty, entered a no-contest plea believing that her total prison sentence would be capped at 10 years. However, the trial…

In Florida, most criminal cases are decided by a jury of peers. However, in some circumstances, a defendant may opt for a non-jury trial, also known as a bench trial, where the judge alone determines the outcome. Understanding when and why a defendant might choose a non-jury trial is crucial for anyone facing criminal charges.…

El reingreso ilegal a los Estados Unidos es un delito federal grave que puede resultar en severas sanciones, incluyendo prisión y deportación. Según 8 U.S.C. § 1326, las personas que han sido deportadas, removidas o a quienes se les ha denegado la entrada y luego regresan ilegalmente pueden enfrentar cargos por delitos graves. Un caso…

Illegal reentry into the United States is a serious federal offense that can lead to harsh penalties, including imprisonment and deportation. Under 8 U.S.C. § 1326, individuals who have been previously deported, removed, or denied entry and then unlawfully return to the U.S. can face felony charges. A recent case highlights the government’s aggressive prosecution…