Tips to Help You Talk to Your Criminal Defense Lawyer
Facing criminal charges can be overwhelming, but one of the most important steps in protecting your rights is effective communication with your defense attorney. Your lawyer is your advocate, and providing them with the right information while understanding your legal options can make a significant difference in your case. If you’ve been...
What You Should and Should Not Do During an Arrest
Being placed under arrest is a stressful and often confusing experience. How you respond in the moment can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Whether you're in Panama City or Panama City Beach, Florida, understanding your rights and the proper way to handle an arrest can help protect you from additional...
Do Field Sobriety Tests Hold Up in Court?
When a driver is pulled over on suspicion of DUI in Panama City Beach, Florida, law enforcement officers often use field sobriety tests (FSTs) to assess impairment. These tests are designed to measure balance, coordination, and cognitive function, but their reliability is often questioned in court. At The Sombathy Law Firm,...
What is Duress? Legal Definition and Qualifications
When facing criminal charges, one possible defense that may apply to your case is duress. The concept of duress is used in criminal law to argue that a defendant only committed a crime because they were forced to do so under the threat of harm. This legal defense, however, has strict qualifications...
Bob Sombathy Recertified by the Florida Bar as a Board Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer
Less Than 1% Of Practicing Florida Attorneys Are Board Certified In Criminal Trial Law
Panama City, Florida – Bob Sombathy, a highly respected criminal trial lawyer, has recently been recertified by the Florida Bar as a Board-Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer. This prestigious designation represents the pinnacle...
What to Do if You Are Arrested While on Spring Break
Spring break is a time for fun, relaxation, and making memories with friends. However, with the excitement of parties and new experiences, many people find themselves in legal trouble. If you or a loved one are arrested while on spring break in Florida, it is essential to know what steps to take...
Resisting Arrest: Understanding Charges and Penalties
Being placed under arrest is a stressful and often overwhelming experience. In the heat of the moment, some individuals may react by pulling away, arguing, or refusing to comply with law enforcement commands. However, actions perceived as resisting arrest can lead to serious criminal charges in Panama City, Florida. Understanding the laws...
DUI Checkpoint Refusals: Consequences and Considerations
DUI checkpoints, also known as sobriety checkpoints, are used by law enforcement across Florida to deter and catch impaired drivers. While these stops are legal under both state and federal law, they raise many questions for drivers, particularly regarding their rights and obligations. If you encounter a DUI checkpoint, you may wonder:...
Beyond DUI: Other Alcohol-Related Crimes in Florida
Driving under the influence (DUI) is one of the most well-known alcohol-related offenses, but Florida law also penalizes various other alcohol-related crimes. These offenses can carry severe consequences, including fines, jail time, and lasting impacts on your record. Understanding these laws can help individuals make informed decisions and avoid legal trouble. If...
How Misdemeanors Can Become Felonies
Criminal charges can significantly impact a person’s life, even when the offense seems minor. While misdemeanors are considered less severe than felonies, there are circumstances in which a misdemeanor can escalate to a felony. Understanding how this happens is crucial for anyone facing criminal charges or navigating Florida’s legal system. Keep reading...
