Category: Criminal Defense

Florida arrest warrants never expire. Whether you turn yourself in voluntarily or are arrested during a traffic stop, the warrant will follow you until it is resolved.

You check your mail and find a notice, or maybe a friend mentions they heard police were looking...

A Florida criminal conviction triggers sentencing, potential appeals within 30 days, probation requirements, and long-term consequences for employment and housing, but eligible defendants may eventually seal or expunge their records.

After a criminal conviction in Florida, defendants face sentencing, potential incarceration or probation, and long-term...

If the police want to question you, remember that you are not obligated to answer without an attorney present. Protect your rights by speaking with a lawyer first to ensure your words aren't misinterpreted and used against you later.

"We just want to hear your...

The burden of proof in a criminal case determines how much evidence the prosecutor must present before someone can be convicted. In Florida, the State must prove every element of the charge beyond a reasonable doubt, meaning jurors must have a firm conviction based on the evidence, not assumptions or speculation. For...

When most people think of criminal charges, they imagine someone committing a crime directly, such as theft, assault, or drug possession. However, Florida law also allows prosecutors to charge individuals who may not have committed the crime themselves but were involved in some way. These individuals can face charges as accessories.

Facing a criminal charge for the first time can be a daunting and overwhelming experience. Fortunately, Florida offers several programs designed to help first-time offenders avoid harsh penalties and get a second chance. At The Sombathy Law Firm, we work with clients in Bay County and throughout Florida to help them...

Labor Day weekend is known for sun, fun, and festivities—but it’s also one of the busiest times of year for law enforcement. In Panama City and throughout Bay County, Florida, arrests spike during the holiday as celebrations sometimes cross the line into criminal conduct. Understanding what can get you into legal trouble—and...

Being arrested in another state can be a terrifying experience, especially if you’re on vacation, traveling for work, or visiting family. Suddenly, you’re dealing with unfamiliar laws, procedures, and court systems that operate very differently from what you may know back home. If you’ve been charged with a crime in Florida but...

Confessing to a crime during a police interrogation is a serious moment with major legal consequences. Whether made voluntarily or under pressure, a confession can significantly impact the outcome of your case, even if you later change your story. But what many people don’t realize is that not all confessions are legally...