Thomas C. Grajek | June 11, 2026 | Domestic Violence
Parents have the right to discipline their children, but that right has limits. In Florida, discipline can become a legal problem when it crosses the line into abuse, battery, or domestic violence. This can be confusing for parents who are trying to understand what conduct may lead to criminal charges. Florida law defines domestic violence […]
Thomas C. Grajek | June 11, 2026 | DUI
Many people assume that only a driver can get into trouble for having an alcoholic beverage inside a car, but Florida’s open container law covers both drivers and passengers in a range of situations. What seems like a harmless drink on the way home or during a group outing can quickly lead to serious legal […]
Thomas C. Grajek | May 7, 2026 | DUI
Most DUI charges in Lakeland, Florida, begin as misdemeanors. Under Florida Statute § 316.193, a driver may be charged with DUI if their blood alcohol concentration is 0.08% or higher or if alcohol or drugs impair their normal faculties. However, certain circumstances can elevate a DUI charge to a felony, which carries significantly more serious […]
Thomas C. Grajek | May 5, 2026 | Criminal Defense
In Florida, a “restraining order” is typically called an injunction for protection. These orders are issued in cases involving domestic violence, dating violence, repeat violence, stalking, or cyberstalking. If you are involved in one of these cases, you may be wondering how long it will affect your record—and your future. The answer depends on several […]
Thomas C. Grajek | May 1, 2026 | Domestic Violence
A protective injunction, also referred to as a restraining order, is a civil court order in Florida that prohibits one person from having contact with another. There are five kinds of protective injunctions under state law, one of which is called a stalking protective injunction. This particular type of injunction could apply in the context […]
Thomas C. Grajek | April 15, 2026 | Criminal Defense
Contempt of court happens when someone disobeys a lawful order from a judge or acts in a way that disrupts the legal process or undermines the court’s authority. This isn’t just about making a mistake; contempt usually means the judge believes your actions (or lack of action) were willful or seriously interfered with the fairness […]
Thomas C. Grajek | April 7, 2026 | Domestic Violence
If you are facing a domestic violence allegation in Florida, you may quickly come across the term “DANCO.” While it may sound like legal jargon, it can affect where you live, who you can speak to, and how you go about your daily routine almost immediately. These orders are often put in place before you […]
Thomas C. Grajek | April 6, 2026 | Criminal Defense
A “deportable offense” is a criminal offense or related conduct that may make a non-citizen removable under U.S. immigration law. Simply being arrested for a crime, however, does not automatically trigger deportation for the defendant. Whether a criminal case will have immigration consequences depends on several specific factors, including the exact charge filed, exactly how […]
Thomas C. Grajek | March 13, 2026 | DUI
Getting hit with an ignition interlock device (IID) requirement can change your daily routine in ways most people don’t expect. Florida law mandates these devices under certain DUI circumstances, and learning about when they apply is critical if you want to protect your ability to drive. Essentially, an IID is a small breathalyzer installed in […]
Thomas C. Grajek | March 10, 2026 | Criminal Defense
Being arrested in Florida can be a stressful and confusing experience, both for the person taken into custody and their loved ones. Many families understandably want to know how they can help their loved one get out of jail as quickly as possible and what steps they need to take. One of the first concerns […]