At The Bonderud Law Firm, we help clients understand their exposure and work to reduce or avoid prison time. Here’s how sentencing really works in Florida.

What Are Florida’s Sentencing Guidelines?

Florida’s Criminal Punishment Code is a scoring system that helps judges determine a fair and proportionate sentence for felony offenses. Each charge — and certain background factors — are assigned point values. The total number of points determines the lowest permissible sentence a judge can impose.

The guidelines apply to felony cases only — misdemeanors are not scored under this system.

How Does the Scoring Work?

Each defendant’s case is assigned a scoresheet that includes:

• Primary offense (the most serious current charge)
• Additional offenses (other charges in the same case)
• Victim injury points (based on severity of harm)
• Prior record (criminal history, scored by type and recency)
• Legal status violations (e.g., on probation or escape status)
• Enhancements (firearm use, gang activity, drug trafficking, etc.)

Once the total score is calculated:

• If the score is 44 points or fewer, the court may impose any non-prison sanction, including probation.
• If the score is more than 44 points, the court must impose a minimum prison sentence, unless there is a valid reason for a downward departure.

What Is a Downward Departure?

A downward departure allows the judge to impose a lesser sentence than what the CPC requires — but only if certain statutory reasons apply, such as:

• The defendant was an accomplice with a minor role
• The offense was isolated and out of character
• The defendant has a mental illness requiring treatment
• The victim was an initiator or participant
• The defendant cooperated with law enforcement

The defense must file a motion for downward departure, and the judge must find both a legal basis and that it’s justified under the facts.

Other Sentencing Factors

In addition to the scoresheet, judges consider:

• Victim impact statements
• Pre-sentence investigation reports (if requested)
• Recommendations from the prosecutor or defense
• Mitigation evidence (employment, rehabilitation efforts, family support, etc.)

Sentencing Is a Strategy — Not a Math Problem

Even though Florida uses a scoring system, sentencing is far from automatic. An experienced defense attorney can advocate for reduced scores, diversion programs, probation, or departures from the minimums.

At The Bonderud Law Firm, we work tirelessly to minimize the impact of sentencing on our clients’ lives and futures. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

At The Bonderud Law Firm, we evaluate every case to determine whether entrapment or other constitutional defenses apply. Here’s what you need to know about Florida’s entrapment laws.

What Is Entrapment?

Entrapment occurs when law enforcement officers or agents:

Induce or persuade someone to commit a crime they were not predisposed to commit.

There are two types of entrapment recognized in Florida:

1. Subjective Entrapment (federal standard):
   • Focuses on the defendant’s predisposition to commit the crime.
   • If the defendant was ready and willing to commit the offense before law enforcement’s involvement, this defense typically fails.
2. Objective Entrapment (Florida constitutional standard):
   • Focuses on police misconduct, regardless of the defendant’s predisposition.
   • Courts consider whether the government’s conduct was so outrageous that it violates due process.

Florida courts generally follow objective entrapment, which may provide broader protection than the federal standard.

Examples of Entrapment

✅ A confidential informant repeatedly pressures someone to sell drugs, even after they refuse — until they finally give in.
✅ An undercover officer offers to pay someone in financial distress to commit a crime they otherwise wouldn’t have considered.
✅ Police create a fake online profile and aggressively solicit illegal conduct over weeks before making an arrest.

Entrapment is not a valid defense if:

• The officer merely provided the opportunity
• The defendant was already planning the crime
• The defendant has a history of similar offenses

How Is Entrapment Proven in Court?

The defense must show:

1. Government inducement to commit the offense
2. Lack of predisposition or improper tactics (e.g., coercion, pressure, manipulation)

If evidence supports this, the court may dismiss the case before trial or the jury may consider it as a complete defense.

Entrapment and Sting Operations

Sting operations are legal — but they must follow constitutional limits. When police cross the line, entrapping an otherwise law-abiding citizen, the defense may succeed.

Set Up by Law Enforcement? Don’t Stay Silent.

Entrapment is a complex and highly fact-specific defense — and it must be raised early and strategically. At The Bonderud Law Firm, we fight to expose law enforcement misconduct and defend clients against unfair prosecutions.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discuss your defense options.

At The Bonderud Law Firm, we guide clients through the pretrial process and help them navigate travel restrictions and requests. Here’s what you need to know before you pack your bags.

What Restrictions May Apply?

After an arrest, the court typically sets conditions of release — especially if you bonded out. These may include:

• Remaining in the county or state
• Surrendering your passport
• Avoiding certain locations or individuals
• Pretrial supervision (like probation)

If your release conditions include a travel restriction, you must get court approval before leaving the jurisdiction — even temporarily.

What If There Are No Travel Restrictions?

If the judge did not impose any restrictions, and you are not on pretrial supervision or probation, you may be allowed to travel within reason. However:

✅ You must still appear at all scheduled court dates
✅ You must be reachable by your attorney
✅ You must not miss any required conditions, such as drug testing or check-ins

Failing to appear or comply can result in a warrant for your arrest and forfeiture of your bond.

How to Request Permission to Travel

If you have travel restrictions, your attorney can file a motion to modify the conditions of release. The motion should:

• State where and when you want to travel
• Explain the reason (e.g., medical, work, family emergency)
• Assure the court you will return and remain compliant

In some cases, the court may require a hearing before granting permission.

Traveling While on Pretrial Intervention or Diversion

If you’re enrolled in a diversion program, there may be additional rules, such as:

• Getting approval from a supervising officer
• Providing a detailed itinerary
• Remaining in contact during travel

Failing to comply can jeopardize your diversion agreement — which could result in your case being reactivated.

Can You Travel Internationally?

Traveling abroad while a criminal case is pending is very risky. You may be:

• Denied entry to another country due to pending charges
• Denied re-entry to the U.S. (especially for non-citizens)
• Viewed as a flight risk by the court

Most judges will not allow international travel unless under extraordinary circumstances.

When in Doubt, Ask — and Get It in Writing

Assuming you can travel without checking could cost you your freedom. At The Bonderud Law Firm, we help clients seek court approval for travel and make sure they stay in compliance while their case is pending.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and protect your rights while staying on track.

At The Bonderud Law Firm, we help clients navigate the bail and bond process quickly and effectively. Here’s what you need to know.

What Is “Bail”?

Bail is the amount of money the court requires to ensure that a defendant returns to court for all future proceedings. It’s not a fine or punishment — it’s a guarantee.

The court sets bail based on:

• The seriousness of the charge
• The defendant’s criminal history
• Risk of flight
• Risk to the public
• Ties to the community

What Is “Bond”?

Bond refers to the method of posting bail — either with cash or through a bail bond agent. There are two primary types:

1. Cash Bond
   • You pay the full amount of bail directly to the jail or court
   • If the defendant appears at all required hearings, the money is refunded (minus fees)
2. Surety Bond (via a bail bondsman)
   • You pay a non-refundable fee (typically 10% of the bail amount) to a bondsman
   • The bondsman guarantees the full bail to the court
   • If the defendant fails to appear, the bondsman may seek to recover the full amount (and may employ bounty hunters)

What Is “Release on Recognizance” (ROR)?

For certain non-violent or low-level offenses, the judge may release a defendant without requiring payment, based on their promise to appear in court. This is known as:

• Release on Own Recognizance (ROR)
• Pretrial release

This is often granted to first-time offenders with strong ties to the community.

What Happens at a Bond Hearing?

If the arrest doesn’t involve a preset bail schedule, or if the prosecution is seeking to deny bond, the court will hold a bond hearing (usually within 24 hours of arrest).

At this hearing:

• The judge reviews the charges and any prior criminal record
• The defense can argue for a lower bond or ROR
• The judge sets the terms of release

Can a Lawyer Help Lower the Bond?

Yes. A criminal defense attorney can:

• Present mitigating evidence
• Argue for a bond reduction
• Challenge the prosecution’s request to deny bond
• Help secure release through a bondsman if needed

We also file motions to modify bond later in the case if circumstances change.

Your First Step After Arrest Starts Here

Getting out of custody is the first step in building a strong defense. At The Bonderud Law Firm, we move quickly to secure your release and help you navigate the entire criminal process with clarity and confidence.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

At The Bonderud Law Firm, we defend individuals accused of serious or repeat felonies and fight to avoid sentencing enhancements. Here’s what you need to know about Florida’s Three Strikes law and how it works.

What Is Florida’s “Three Strikes” Law?

Florida’s version of the “Three Strikes” law is found in a combination of statutes, including:

• Prison Releasee Reoffender (PRR) Law
• Habitual Felony Offender (HFO)
• Habitual Violent Felony Offender (HVFO)
• Three-Time Violent Felony Offender (3X VFO)

These laws are used to increase penalties — often to the statutory maximum — for individuals who commit multiple serious felonies, particularly involving violence or weapons.

Who Qualifies as a Three-Time Violent Felony Offender?

To be sentenced as a 3X VFO in Florida, the following conditions must be met:

• The person has been previously convicted of two or more violent felonies, such as:
  • Murder
  • Sexual battery
  • Robbery
  • Aggravated assault or battery
  • Burglary of a dwelling
• The third offense must also be a qualifying violent felony
• The third offense must occur after the prior two convictions

If the law applies, the judge must impose the maximum sentence — no plea deal, no gain time, and no early release.

Why This Law Matters

The Three Strikes law removes judicial discretion. Even if the judge wants to consider rehabilitation, family circumstances, or mental health, they are bound by statute to impose the maximum penalty.

That’s why it’s critical to:

• Challenge the prior convictions (were they truly qualifying?)
• Argue against enhancement at sentencing
• Fight the new charge — or negotiate a non-qualifying plea

Can These Sentencing Enhancements Be Avoided?

Yes — with a strategic and aggressive defense. Possible avenues include:

• Suppressing or challenging prior convictions
• Negotiating a plea to a non-qualifying offense
• Filing motions to dismiss improper enhancement notices
• Taking the case to trial if the evidence is weak

Early intervention is key. The prosecution must give notice of its intent to seek enhancement — and a skilled defense attorney can work to defeat it.

A Third Strike Doesn’t Have to Be the End

If you’re facing felony charges and have prior convictions, you may be looking at decades — or life — behind bars. But the right defense can make all the difference.

At The Bonderud Law Firm, we fight sentencing enhancements and protect our clients’ futures. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

At The Bonderud Law Firm, we help clients collect impactful letters that present a fuller picture of who they are — beyond the allegations. Here’s how character letters work, and how they can make a difference.

What Is a Character Letter?

A character letter is a written statement from someone who knows you personally or professionally and can speak to your:

• Integrity
• Work ethic
• Family role
• Community involvement
• Personal growth or rehabilitation

The goal is to humanize the defendant and show the judge that this case does not define the person’s entire life.

When Are Character Letters Used?

Character letters are typically submitted:

• Before a sentencing hearing (after a guilty plea or conviction)
• In federal or state court
• During plea negotiations, to support leniency or diversion
• Occasionally, before charges are filed, as part of pre-filing advocacy

They are particularly useful in cases where jail or prison is a possibility — or where mitigating circumstances should be brought to the court’s attention.

What Makes a Character Letter Effective?

Strong character letters:

✅ Are written by credible people (employers, teachers, clergy, mentors, family members)
✅ Are honest and specific, not overly emotional or generic
✅ Acknowledge the case without trying to re-litigate it
✅ Highlight the defendant’s good deeds, work history, family responsibilities, and remorse
✅ Offer insight into the defendant’s efforts to change, grow, or seek treatment

How Many Letters Should Be Submitted?

Quality matters more than quantity. In most cases, 3 to 5 well-written letters are enough. Submitting too many can dilute the message. Your attorney can help select the strongest letters and present them effectively.

Should the Letters Be Notarized or Sworn?

In most cases, notarization is not necessary. Letters should be signed, dated, and include the author’s contact information and relationship to the defendant. A typed letter on letterhead (if applicable) adds credibility.

Put Your Story in Front of the Judge — the Right Way

A conviction doesn’t have to define the outcome. Judges are human — and character letters offer a powerful way to advocate for leniency, rehabilitation, or an alternative sentence.

At The Bonderud Law Firm, we guide clients and their families through the character letter process to make a meaningful impact at sentencing. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

At The Bonderud Law Firm, we work with mental health professionals and advocate for clients whose psychological conditions must be factored into their legal defense. Here’s how mental health can shape criminal responsibility in Florida.

Mental Health and Competency to Stand Trial

Before a case can proceed to trial, the defendant must be competent to stand trial — meaning they:

• Understand the nature of the charges
• Understand the possible consequences
• Can assist their attorney in preparing a defense

If there is reason to believe a defendant is incompetent, the court may order a mental health evaluation. If found incompetent, the case is paused and the person may be sent for restoration treatment until they are fit to proceed.

The Insanity Defense in Florida

Florida recognizes the insanity defense when, at the time of the offense, a person:

“Did not know what they were doing or did not know that it was wrong, due to a severe mental disease or defect.”

This is a legal, not medical, determination. It’s rarely used — and even more rarely successful — but in the right case, it can be a complete defense to criminal liability.

If successful, the defendant is found “not guilty by reason of insanity” and may be committed to a mental health facility rather than sentenced to jail or prison.

Mental Health as Mitigation

Even when it doesn’t rise to the level of insanity, mental health can still play a major role in:

• Plea negotiations
• Sentencing
• Requests for diversion, probation, or treatment programs

Courts may consider mental health history, trauma, intellectual disability, or substance-induced disorders when deciding the appropriate outcome.

Mental Health Courts and Diversion

Several Florida counties have mental health courts — specialized programs that offer treatment-based alternatives to traditional prosecution. Eligibility varies, but the goal is to address the root cause of the behavior and reduce recidivism.

Successful completion can lead to dismissal of charges or avoidance of jail time.

Mental Illness Doesn’t Make You a Criminal — But It Can Be Misunderstood

Don’t let a court system treat you (or your loved one) as just another case number. At The Bonderud Law Firm, we know how to build a defense strategy that takes your mental health into account — and we fight to protect your dignity, rights, and future.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

At The Bonderud Law Firm, we defend clients against all types of drug possession charges — from misdemeanor marijuana to serious felony narcotics. Here’s what you need to know about Florida drug possession laws.

Types of Drug Possession in Florida

Florida law recognizes several types of possession:

• Actual Possession: The drugs were found on your person (in your hand, pocket, or wallet)
• Constructive Possession: The drugs were in a place you had access to and control over (like your car or home)
• Joint Possession: Multiple people had access or control over the drugs

Even if drugs are not physically on you, you can still be charged if prosecutors believe you had knowledge and control.

Common Controlled Substances

Florida classifies drugs into “schedules” based on their potential for abuse:

• Schedule I: Heroin, LSD, ecstasy — high abuse potential, no accepted medical use
• Schedule II: Cocaine, methamphetamine, oxycodone, fentanyl
• Schedule III–V: Lower potential for abuse — includes some prescription medications

Penalties for Drug Possession

Penalties depend on the type and amount of the drug:

• Marijuana (under 20 grams):
  • First-degree misdemeanor
  • Up to 1 year in jail and $1,000 fine
• Controlled substances (e.g., cocaine, meth, ecstasy):
  • Typically third-degree felonies
  • Up to 5 years in prison and $5,000 fine
• Prescription drugs without a valid prescription (e.g., Xanax, OxyContin):
  • Also charged as felonies

Possession of larger amounts or packaging consistent with distribution may lead to drug trafficking charges — even if there’s no evidence of sales.

Possible Defenses

Common defenses to drug possession include:

• Illegal search or seizure (Fourth Amendment violation)
• Lack of knowledge about the drugs
• No constructive possession (you didn’t control the space)
• Prescription or lawful use
• Entrapment or planted evidence

In some cases, we can file a motion to suppress illegally obtained evidence, which may lead to the charges being dismissed.

Alternatives to Conviction

For first-time or low-level offenders, you may qualify for:

• Pretrial diversion
• Drug court
• Withhold of adjudication with probation

These alternatives may allow you to avoid a formal conviction and potentially seal your record.

Don’t Let a Drug Charge Derail Your Future

Whether it’s a misdemeanor or a felony, a drug possession charge can impact your freedom, your job, and your record. At The Bonderud Law Firm, we fight aggressively to suppress evidence, reduce charges, and protect your future.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

At The Bonderud Law Firm, we work with non-citizens to protect both their criminal and immigration status. Here’s how criminal charges can intersect with immigration law — and what you should do to protect yourself.

Criminal Convictions Can Trigger Deportation

Certain criminal convictions can make a non-citizen removable (deportable) under federal immigration law. These include:

• Aggravated felonies
• Crimes involving moral turpitude (CIMTs)
• Drug offenses (even minor possession)
• Domestic violence, stalking, or child abuse offenses
• Firearm offenses
• Theft or fraud involving $10,000 or more in loss

A conviction doesn’t just mean a guilty plea or jury verdict — in immigration law, even withholding of adjudication or pretrial diversion may still count as a “conviction” under certain circumstances.

Inadmissibility: Being Denied Entry or a Green Card

Criminal records can also lead to inadmissibility, meaning:

• You can’t get a green card (permanent residency)
• You can’t adjust status while in the U.S.
• You may be denied entry at the border or airport

Inadmissibility applies to many of the same categories as deportability but may apply even without a conviction, such as with an admission to drug use.

How Criminal Charges Affect Naturalization

To become a U.S. citizen, you must prove “good moral character” — typically for the 5 years before applying. Criminal offenses, especially felonies and CIMTs, can cause a denial of naturalization.

Defenses and Strategies for Non-Citizens

If you’re not a citizen, your criminal defense must be immigration-informed. We work to:

• Avoid convictions altogether (e.g., dismissal, diversion, acquittal)
• Reduce charges to avoid deportable or inadmissible offenses
• Seek plea deals that don’t trigger immigration consequences
• Coordinate with immigration counsel when necessary

In some cases, a carefully structured plea can save your immigration status — but only if the defense attorney understands the consequences.

Your Future in the U.S. Is Too Important to Risk

Don’t plead guilty without understanding the immigration consequences. At The Bonderud Law Firm, we defend non-citizens with the knowledge and strategy needed to protect both their legal and immigration future.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get the defense you need.

At The Bonderud Law Firm, we regularly help clients enter and complete diversion programs as a strategic way to keep their record clean. Here’s what you need to know.

What Is Pretrial Diversion?

Pretrial diversion (also known as a pretrial intervention or deferred prosecution program) is a type of alternative resolution for certain criminal charges. If accepted into a diversion program, your case is paused while you complete specific conditions, such as:

• Community service
• Counseling or classes (e.g., anger management, theft awareness, substance abuse treatment)
• Drug testing
• Restitution payments (if applicable)
• Avoiding any new arrests

Upon successful completion, the charges are typically dismissed, and you may then be eligible to seal or expunge your record.

Who Is Eligible for Diversion?

Eligibility depends on:

• The nature of the charge (usually misdemeanors or non-violent felonies)
• Your criminal history (first-time offenders are most commonly accepted)
• The discretion of the prosecutor and approval of the court

Common charges considered for diversion:

• Theft/shoplifting
• Possession of marijuana or other minor drug offenses
• Battery or disorderly conduct
• Trespassing
• Driving with a suspended license

Benefits of Diversion

✅ Avoid a conviction
✅ No jail time
✅ Record may be sealed or expunged after dismissal
✅ Less expensive than trial or long-term supervision
✅ Discreet resolution without public courtroom drama

What Happens If You Fail the Program?

If you don’t complete the program (miss appointments, fail drug tests, get arrested again), the State can reinstate the prosecution, and your case resumes where it left off — often with fewer options available.

Diversion Can Be the Second Chance You Need

Pretrial diversion isn’t a free pass — but it’s a valuable opportunity to move forward without a permanent mark on your record. An experienced criminal defense attorney can advocate for your acceptance into a program and guide you through to completion.

At The Bonderud Law Firm, we help clients access and complete diversion programs across Florida. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and find out if you qualify.

At The Bonderud Law Firm, we help clients intervene early, often before charges are filed. Here’s what you need to know if you suspect (or know) that you’re the subject of a criminal investigation in Florida.

How Do You Know You’re Being Investigated?

Signs that you may be under investigation include:

• You’re contacted by police or a detective
• A search warrant is executed at your home, business, or vehicle
• You receive a subpoena for documents or testimony
• Friends, family, or coworkers tell you they’ve been questioned
• You receive a “target letter” from the State Attorney or U.S. Attorney’s Office

Even if the communication seems friendly, assume you are not being contacted as a witness — you’re a potential suspect.

Should You Talk to the Police?

No — not without an attorney. If law enforcement wants to talk to you, it’s because they are building a case. Anything you say can and will be used against you.

Politely respond with:

“I’d like to speak to an attorney before answering any questions.”

This is not an admission of guilt — it’s an assertion of your constitutional rights.

What Can a Lawyer Do During an Investigation?

A defense attorney can make a major difference before charges are filed. We can:

• Communicate with law enforcement or prosecutors on your behalf
• Prevent unnecessary interviews, searches, or arrests
• Present exculpatory evidence before charging decisions are made
• Guide you on what to do — and not do — during the investigation
• Work to resolve the case confidentially through pre-filing negotiations

Sometimes, we’re able to prevent charges altogether.

What If Charges Are Filed Later?

If an investigation leads to formal charges, your attorney will be ready to act immediately, having already learned key facts and developed a defense strategy.

Waiting until charges are filed often puts you at a disadvantage — you’ll be playing catch-up against prosecutors who’ve had a head start.

If You’re Being Investigated, the Time to Act Is Now

Don’t assume you can wait and see what happens — by then, it may be too late to avoid charges. If you’ve been contacted by law enforcement or believe you’re under investigation, talk to a lawyer immediately.

At The Bonderud Law Firm, we provide early, discreet legal intervention to protect your rights and your future. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

At The Bonderud Law Firm, we defend clients accused of theft across Florida. Here’s a breakdown of how theft crimes are classified, prosecuted, and defended.

What Is “Theft” Under Florida Law?

Under Florida Statute § 812.014, theft occurs when a person:

“Knowingly obtains or uses… the property of another with intent to… permanently or temporarily deprive the other person of a right to the property or a benefit from the property.”

The key elements are:

• Intent to deprive
• Lack of consent
• Control or use of someone else’s property

Types of Theft Crimes in Florida

1. Petit Theft (Petty Theft)
   • Involves property valued under $750
   • Second-degree misdemeanor if under $100 (up to 60 days in jail)
   • First-degree misdemeanor if $100–$749 (up to 1 year in jail)
2. Grand Theft (Felony Theft)
   • Property valued at $750 or more, or specific types of property (e.g., firearms, vehicles, controlled substances)
   • Third-degree felony: $750–$20,000 (up to 5 years in prison)
   • Second-degree felony: $20,000–$100,000
   • First-degree felony: Over $100,000 (up to 30 years in prison)
3. Retail Theft (Shoplifting)
   • Includes switching price tags, hiding merchandise, or using devices to defeat security
   • May be charged as misdemeanor or felony depending on value and prior history
4. Dealing in Stolen Property
   • Separate felony offense for selling or trafficking stolen goods
   • Second-degree felony (up to 15 years in prison)

Defenses to Theft Charges

Each case is different, but common defenses may include:

• Lack of intent (accidental taking or misunderstanding)
• Mistaken identity or false accusation
• Claim of ownership or right to possess the item
• Lack of evidence or inconsistent witness statements
• Entrapment or coercion

For first-time offenders, pretrial diversion or withhold of adjudication may be possible — keeping the record clean.

A Theft Charge Doesn’t Have to Define Your Future

Even misdemeanor theft can affect employment, education, housing, and immigration status. Don’t let a misunderstanding or bad decision ruin your record.

At The Bonderud Law Firm, we provide aggressive defense, fight for dismissals, and work to protect your name. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

At The Bonderud Law Firm, we advise every client to treat social media as a potential minefield during a criminal investigation or prosecution. Here’s what you need to know.

Yes, Prosecutors Do Look at Your Social Media

Social media posts are often introduced as evidence in criminal cases, especially in:

• Assault and battery cases (posts showing threats, weapons, or fights)
• DUI and drug cases (posts showing intoxication or illegal substances)
• Theft or fraud cases (boasting about money or property)
• Domestic violence or stalking cases (communications with the alleged victim)
• Gang-related or firearm offenses (photos, affiliations, or tagged content)

Even private messages and deleted content can be subpoenaed or retrieved through forensic methods.

Common Mistakes That Can Hurt Your Case

🚫 Posting about the incident
Even if you’re “just venting” — your statements can be twisted into an admission of guilt.

🚫 Communicating with alleged victims or witnesses
This may violate a no-contact order or be used to allege witness tampering or intimidation.

🚫 Sharing photos of weapons, alcohol, or drugs
Even unrelated content can paint a picture of character that a prosecutor will exploit.

🚫 “Cleaning up” or deleting content after being charged
This can be viewed as destruction of evidence or consciousness of guilt.

What You Should Do Instead

✅ Set all social media accounts to private (but don’t assume this makes you safe)
✅ Avoid posting anything — even vague or personal content — until your case is resolved
✅ Ask friends and family not to tag you or post about your situation
✅ Do not message anyone involved in your case
✅ Tell your lawyer about any concerning posts, messages, or accounts immediately

What You Post Can Be Used Against You — But We Can Fight Back

At The Bonderud Law Firm, we understand how prosecutors use digital evidence and how to challenge its admissibility or relevance in court. If you’re facing criminal charges in Florida, don’t let your social media feed become the prosecution’s strongest witness.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and protect your rights — online and offline.

At The Bonderud Law Firm, we routinely challenge unlawful searches and fight to suppress illegally obtained evidence. Here’s what you need to know about search warrants in Florida.

What Is a Search Warrant?

A search warrant is a court order signed by a judge authorizing law enforcement to search a specific location and seize specific items. To obtain a warrant, officers must submit a sworn affidavit establishing probable cause.

The warrant must clearly state:

• The place to be searched (e.g., a residence, vehicle, or phone)
• The items to be seized (e.g., drugs, weapons, documents)
• The timeframe for execution (usually within 10 days)

What Makes a Search Warrant Legal?

To be valid under the Fourth Amendment and Florida law, a search warrant must:

✅ Be based on probable cause — not mere suspicion
✅ Be supported by a sworn affidavit detailing the evidence and reasons
✅ Be issued by a neutral and detached judge
✅ Clearly describe the place to be searched and items to be seized

Common Defects That Can Invalidate a Warrant

A search warrant may be challenged — and the evidence suppressed — if:

• The warrant is based on false or misleading information
• The affidavit lacks sufficient detail to establish probable cause
• The warrant is overbroad (too vague or general)
• The officers searched areas or seized items not listed in the warrant
• The warrant was executed outside the allowed time window

What About Warrantless Searches?

While the Constitution generally requires a warrant, there are several exceptions where police may lawfully search without one, including:

• Consent searches
• Search incident to arrest
• Exigent circumstances (e.g., preventing destruction of evidence)
• Plain view doctrine
• Automobile exception

Even these exceptions have legal limits — and they’re often abused or misunderstood by law enforcement.

What Happens If the Search Was Illegal?

If your Fourth Amendment rights were violated, your attorney can file a motion to suppress the evidence obtained from the unlawful search. If the motion is successful, the prosecution may be left with no case at all.

Don’t Let Illegally Obtained Evidence Ruin Your Life

If your property was searched or your rights were violated, don’t assume the evidence is unbeatable. At The Bonderud Law Firm, we aggressively challenge illegal searches and fight to have unconstitutional evidence thrown out.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and protect your rights.

At The Bonderud Law Firm, we defend clients in both state and federal court. Here’s how these two systems differ — and why it matters for your defense.

Jurisdiction: Who Brings the Charges?

• State charges are filed by the State Attorney’s Office and prosecuted in Florida circuit or county courts.
• Federal charges are filed by the U.S. Attorney’s Office and prosecuted in U.S. District Court.

Federal jurisdiction typically applies when:

• The alleged crime crosses state lines
• The offense involves federal property or agencies
• The crime violates federal statutes (e.g., drug trafficking, wire fraud, immigration violations)

Types of Cases Typically Handled Federally

Federal courts typically handle:

• Drug trafficking and large-scale distribution
• Mail, wire, and bank fraud
• Tax evasion and money laundering
• Public corruption
• Child pornography offenses
• Immigration crimes
• White collar offenses involving interstate or international conduct

By contrast, most violent crimes, DUIs, domestic violence, and theft cases are prosecuted at the state level.

Investigative Agencies

State charges usually involve:

• Local police departments
• County sheriff’s offices
• State law enforcement agencies (e.g., FDLE)

Federal charges may involve:

• FBI
• DEA
• ATF
• Homeland Security
• IRS
• U.S. Secret Service

Federal cases often result from long-term investigations involving subpoenas, surveillance, and grand jury proceedings.

Court Procedure and Rules

Federal courts follow the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure, while Florida courts follow state-specific rules. Key differences include:

• Speedy trial timelines are longer in federal court
• Discovery is more limited in federal court
• Federal pretrial release (bond) is often more restrictive
• Jury selection and trial strategy differ due to different jury pools and procedures

Sentencing Differences

• State court sentences vary based on Florida’s Criminal Punishment Code and allow for judicial discretion, probation, or diversion.
• Federal court uses the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, which rely on a point system and are heavily influenced by the amount of loss, drug weight, or criminal history.

Federal convictions almost always result in prison time — often without parole.

Charged in Federal Court? You Need a Different Level of Defense

Federal prosecutions are handled by seasoned agents and prosecutors with vast resources. If you’re facing federal charges, you need an attorney who understands the federal system and has the experience to match.

At The Bonderud Law Firm, we provide aggressive, knowledgeable defense in both state and federal criminal courts. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and protect your rights.