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Hate Crimes in Florida
When it comes to hate crimes, Florida ranks number two in the nation, a distinction that is not in any way positive. There are currently 50 hate groups active in the state, and there were 124 such crimes in the log books by the end of 2013.
So what constitutes a hate crime? You may be charged with a hate crime if your target is chosen based on their race, religion, ethnicity, disability or sexual identity. Across the country, 5,928 hate crimes were reported in 2013, impacting 7,242 people. Officially, the FBI defines a hate crime as: A traditional offense like murder, arson, or vandalism, with an added element of bias.
According to the Southern Poverty Law Center, active hate groups in the Sunshine State include Nation of Islam, Ku Klux Klan and New Black Panther Party chapters. These groups are spread throughout the country. California leads the nation with 57 active groups.
Here are five facts about hate crimes you may not have been aware of:
1. At least 1 Latino person, 3 Jewish people, 3 gay people, 3 white people, and 8 black people will be the victims of hate crimes each day.
2. When it comes to hate crimes, approximately 47% are racially motivated, 21% are motivated by sexual orientation, 20% are motivated by racial bias, 12% are motivated by ethnic bias, and less than 1% are motivated by disability bias.
3. Someone in the United States commits a hate crime every hour.
4. Hate crimes are predominantly committed by persons between the ages of 15 and 24.
5. There is a cross burned somewhere in the United States each week.
If you are arrested and convicted for a hate crime, the punishment is more severe than you would have faced had the crime not been motivated by such biases. You may face longer prison time, harsher fines, and longer periods of probation. If you are the victim of hate crime or know about one, you can call (321) 425-8961, Hate Crimes Hotline.
If you have been arrested for a crime, you need an experienced attorney at your side. Call our offices as soon as you are able and we will review the facts of your case. Our knowledgeable criminal defense lawyers will fight for your rights in court. Contact our offices today for your free initial consultation. We are here to defend you in the way you deserve.
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Decades of Trusted Service. Hundreds of Grateful Voices.
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“David Katz sets the standard by which all other defense attorney's must measure. He not only knows his craft and has the experience to back it up, he relishes forcing his opponents to follow the law towards the best outcome for his clients.”- Karate K.
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“Christine Vazquez took on our case with a 24hr commitment. She put everything on the line to hold the judicial system accountable.”- Phil W.
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“I can’t thank attorneys Christine Vazquez and David Katz enough for the incredible job they did on my DUI case.”- Gabriel H.
Why Hire Katz & Phillips?
Some important reasons to secure experienced representation include:
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Board-Certified* Attorneys
Our founding attorneys are two of three board-certified* DUI defense lawyers in the state.
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Former Prosecution Experience
As former prosecutors, we bring an invaluable perspective and skillset to every case.
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High Success Rate in Criminal Defense
With a 90%+ success rate, our proven track record of success speaks for itself.
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Decades of Experience
With more than 10,000 cases handled, our advocates are well versed in criminal law to help you navigate your case with care and efficiency.
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Always Responsive
Our team is available to take your call and address any questions or concerns you have.
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Financing Available
The last thing you need during a criminal case is financial stress. Our firm offers financing with no credit check required.
Meet Your Dedicated Defense Team
Led by two of Florida's Board-Certified* DUI Experts, Our attorneys bring together more than 50 years of success, defending clients across Florida against criminal and DUI charges.
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DUI Charges Reduced
The court deemed all other conditions satisfied so M.A. did not have to go on probation at all and walked out of courthouse with a fine and fees to pay, and the case behind her.
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Case Dismissed
J.A.R. had had a previous DUI conviction and was facing mandatory jail time if convicted of this offense. In reviewing the discovery provided by the state, our team found several issues with the police investigation, and realized that our clients’ rights had been violated.
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All Charges Dropped
In reviewing the evidence provided by the State our team realized that T.R.’s rights had been violated when she was immediately illegally arrested by the Trooper. Further, there were many other errors made by the Trooper which would result in the evidence gathered being suppressed.
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All Charges Dropped
In this case, our client, R.H., was out with friends. A family member who was angry with him tracked his location by tracking his cell phone, called the police, told them he was very drunk, and led the police right to his car. The officers stopped his car and eventually arrested him.
Our Case Results
Two of Florida’s only Board-Certified* DUI Defense experts fighting for you.
- DUI Charges Reduced
- Case Dismissed
- All Charges Dropped
- All Charges Dropped
