Recent Blog Posts

Internet Crimes

St. Petersburg Criminal Attorney — Sun, 19 Feb 2012 01:15:00 GMT

Internet crimes, or cybercrimes, are a growing problem in the U.S. They are defined as any crime that either targets a computer or network or uses a computer in the commission of a crime. These crimes can range from child pornography possession or distribution, piracy, fraud, and hacking. Crimes that target computers or networks include computer viruses, malicious code, and denial-of-service attacks. As these crimes become more and more complex, law enforcement and government agencies that to do more to crack down on preventing and enforcing the law. Due to their eagerness to apprehend criminals, there are cases of people who were falsely accused.

If this is your case, you should do everything possible to defend your name and fight for your future. Computer and internet crimes are serious and can lead to years in prison and heavy fines. By having a St. Petersburg criminal defense attorney from Leavengood & Nash on your side, your chances of getting your charges dropped or reduced are greatly increased. Contact a St. Petersburg internet crime attorney to learn more.

Felonies vs. Misdemeanors

St. Petersburg Criminal Lawyer — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 01:10:00 GMT

Depending on the severity of the crime, criminal offenses are classified into three different categories. The least severe category is an infraction. This is also known as a petty offense and is usually punished by a fine. The next level up is a misdemeanor. Crimes that are usually charged as misdemeanors include DUI, petty theft, or other non-violent crimes. Felonies are reserved for the most serious offenses. Depending on the severity of the crime, it could lead to time in state prison. Examples include terrorism, murder, arson, kidnapping, and other serious crimes.

Whether you are facing misdemeanor or felony charges, your first step should be to contact a St. Petersburg criminal attorney. A conviction of either of these charges will cause a permanent mark to be placed on your criminal record and could lead to serious penalties. If you would like to talk to a member of our legal team in a free case evaluation, please do not hesitate to contact a St. Petersburg criminal defense lawyer.

Challenging Field Sobriety Tests

St. Petersburg Criminal Attorney — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 00:50:00 GMT

When a driver is pulled over for suspected drunk driving, your first step should be to contact a criminal defense lawyer with experience in DUI cases. What many people do not realize is that field sobriety tests and chemical testing is not always 100% accurate. Due to this fact, some DUI cases are able to be dismissed when the evidence is challenged. There are three main field sobriety tests that are used in the U.S. The first two are divided-attention tests which require the individual to maintain their balance while counting out loud. The last test examines the involuntary jerking in the eye (horizontal gaze nystagmus) to determine if the jerking is more exaggerated than usual.

A St. Petersburg criminal attorney from our team could be able to challenge the evidence against you if the law enforcement officer did not give you clear instructions regarding how to perform the test. If they can prove this in court, the evidence may be thrown out. Also, being under the influence of alcohol is not the only reason a person may fail a field sobriety test. Certain medications and illnesses can also lead to similar behavior. To learn more, contact a St. Petersburg criminal defense lawyer from our firm.

How a Sex Crime Accusation Can Affect Your Life

Leavengood & Nash — Sun, 27 Nov 2011 18:00:00 GMT

When a person is first accused of a sex-related offense, such as molestation, rape, or solicitation, they will be investigated by a local or federal authority. The alleged offender's neighbors, friends, family and other people may hear about the offense and speculate as to whether it could be true.

Immediately, this person may feel a strain in their personal relationships. After some time, word may travel to their employer, who may then terminate this person's employment if they believe that he or she is a threat to the other employees.

Local restaurants and other families may wish to be disaffiliated with this person, and may even refuse them service when they come around.

All of these consequences are associated with simply an accusation; a person does not even have to be convicted to face these types of behaviors from others around them. As such, it is important to have a St Petersburg criminal defense attorney reviewing your case as soon as possible.

Your attorney will need to keep your case from causing a stir in your community, while thoroughly investigating your charges.

To learn more about defense against a sex-related crime, contact our St Petersburg criminal defense lawyer from Leavengood & Nash.

Deputies Keeping a Closer Eye Out for Suspected DUI, Traffic Offenses

Leavengood & Nash — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 18:00:00 GMT

Over the holidays, many more deputies and local authorities all across the state of Florida are keeping a close watch on drivers to ensure that everyone has the safest holiday season possible.

During the campaign, which is in effect now through December 31^st, officers will be looking to stop any person that isn't wearing a seatbelt or could possibly be driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

One of the campaigns that began earlier this month is Click It or Ticket, a popular campaign in many United States communities.

The city hopes to reduce traffic accidents, deaths and injuries with their campaign efforts.

If you or someone you know has been arrested for DUI or been cited with a traffic violation, immediately talk to a St Petersburg criminal defense lawyer from Leavengood & Nash as soon as possible.

While the local authorities are aiming to keep our community safe during this holiday season, an overzealous police officer may make a mistake or an incorrect arrest.

For more information about the community's campaign efforts and to get the legal help you need if you have been arrested during this time, please contact a St Petersburg criminal defense attorney at our office today. We serve clients throughout many Florida communities and can help you understand your rights at a time such as this.

Welcome to our St. Petersburg Criminal Defense Blog

Leavengood & Nash — Fri, 18 Nov 2011 21:19:00 GMT

Our lawyers are pleased to announce the launch of our St. Petersburg Criminal Defense blog.