The Khonsari Law Firm Blog

a young man sitting on the ground with his hands on his head

Minors Facing Criminal Charges

Minors—those who are under the age of 18—think differently than adults, and that difference is not always recognized by the criminal justice system. These differences in thinking occur because minors’ brains are still developing. As a result, minors often make decisions and handle situations in a manner opposite of what is expected. Failing t [...]

Rohom Khonsari February 16, 2018

a man in a suit and tie holding handcuffs

White Collar Crime Basics

The term "white collar crime" is more of a widely acknowledged phrase given to the classification of crime than an actual legal definition. White collar crimes are inherently nonviolent crimes and involve either fraud or dishonesty. The nature of these crimes is financial as opposed to more "violent" crimes such as assault and battery. Although th [...]

Rohom Khonsari February 14, 2018

a man in a police uniform is checking his cell phone

Can Police Stop You Whenever They Want?

One area of confusion for many Floridians is that of police stops. Many Floridians are unaware as to exactly when they may be stopped, questioned, or searched by police. Because of this confusion, many ask, "Just when can a police officer stop me?" A police officer is not able to just stop anyone whenever they choose. According to Florida's "Stop [...]

Rohom Khonsari February 12, 2018

a man in a police car is talking to a woman in the back of a car

How Losing Your License Can Affect You

Losing your license can have a negative impact on your ability to work, to develop your career, and with other aspects of your life. While it is important to remain proactive in avoiding behavior that may compromise your ability to maintain your license, mistakes are sometimes made. How Can You Lose Your License? There are several ways to lose [...]

Rohom Khonsari February 9, 2018

handcuffs and marijuana leaf on white background

Is Marijuana Possession Still a Crime?

Marijuana laws are changing in several states across the country. As laws change, it is not unusual to become confused with how marijuana laws impact you. According to federal law and the Controlled Substance Act, marijuana possession is illegal. Some states, however, have passed laws that make the recreational or medical use of marijuana lawful; [...]

Rohom Khonsari February 7, 2018

Criminal Defense Attorney St. Petersburg Florida

What Is a Bail Hearing?

The right to bail is a critical, early step in the majority of criminal proceedings. Under Florida law, an individual arrested for a crime can apply to be released on bail, also known as a pre-trial release. The vast majority of criminal defendants are released on bail. In order for an individual to secure his or her release, he or she must first f [...]

Rohom Khonsari February 5, 2018

How Expert Witnesses Help in a Criminal Defense

On several occasions, criminal trials turn to the testimony provided by expert witnesses. An expert witness’ testimony provides the jury with a qualified perspective on critical evidence. It is this qualified and specialized knowledge that plays such an important role for criminal defendants. Florida law permits the use of expert witnesses at tri [...]

Rohom Khonsari February 2, 2018

Criminal Defense Lawyer St. Petersburg Florida

When is a Lie Perjury?

When you get on the witness stand, you promise or take an oath to tell the truth, and telling a lie can cost you dearly. Florida takes perjury very seriously and people convicted of lying can be fined and even sentenced to time in jail. If you have a question about how to testify, you should contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. [...]

Rohom Khonsari January 29, 2018

Testimonial Privileges in Florida

As a criminal defendant, almost anything you say can be introduced later in court. However, some communications are kept private because of a privilege. Depending on the circumstances, you might be able to strengthen your defense by keeping certain statements away from the jury. Some of the more important testimonial privileges include the followin [...]

Rohom Khonsari January 26, 2018

Should a Criminal Defendant Testify?

The Fifth Amendment gives you an absolute right not to testify at your criminal trial and the jury can’t use your decision not to testify against you. But in some situations, might it be a good idea to testify anyway? Before you can answer that question, you need to analyze the evidence in your case and with your experienced defense lawyer. Many [...]

Rohom Khonsari January 24, 2018