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At our firm, we believe informed clients make stronger decisions. That’s why we’ve built this section to help you understand your rights, responsibilities, and the laws that may affect your case. Whether it’s learning about Florida statutes, clearing up common myths, or staying up to date with legal news, we’re here to keep you informed and protected.
Check out the October edition of the Monthly Maddux! Didn’t receive one in your email inbox? Email [email protected] to be added to the list and stay up to date on everything going on with Maddux Attorneys!
Fleeing or Attempting to Elude a Law Enforcement Officer
HB 113:
This bill changes the law so that law enforcement vehicles no longer have to display agency insignia when pursuing someone who is fleeing or trying to escape from them in certain instances. It also increases the severity ranking for certain offenses related to fleeing from the police in the Criminal Punishment Code.
Offenses Involving Motor Vehicles
HB 253:
The law now makes it a more serious crime to drive with certain types of lights on your vehicle in certain situations. It also increases the punishment for altering or covering up license plates. Increases the penalty for knowingly altering a motor vehicle registration certificate, a license plate, a temporary license plate, a mobile home sticker, or a validation sticker or obscuring a license plate from a noncriminal traffic infraction to a second degree misdemeanor. Additionally, it is now a crime to buy, sell, or use devices that hide license plates.
Tampering with an Electronic Monitoring Device
HB 437:
The bill revises the offense of tampering with an electronic monitoring device. It establishes a specified penalty for individuals under 18 who commit the offense, requires automatic revocation of pretrial release for a person who tampers with such a device while on release, and allows the court to issue a new bond under specified conditions.
Leaving the Scene of a Crash Involving only Damage to Vehicle or Property
HB 479:
This bill authorizes a court to order restitution when a driver is convicted of leaving the scene of a crash that resulted in damage to another person’s vehicle or property. A violation of this provision constitutes a second degree misdemeanor, punishable as provided in section 775.082 or section 775.083. The court may require a convicted driver who caused or contributed to the crash to compensate the owner of the damaged vehicle or property.
Driving and Boating Offenses
HB 687:
This law increases the penalties for DUI and BUI manslaughter, as well as vehicular and vessel homicide, if the offender has a prior conviction for certain offenses. It also mandates that individuals are informed that refusing to take a breath or urine test after a DUI arrest can result in misdemeanor charges. Additionally, the law establishes criminal penalties for a first refusal to take a breath or urine test after a DUI arrest and ranks offenses on the Criminal Punishment Code's severity chart.
Read more about the recent updates in Tim Burke’s case at the Tampa Bay Times.
On September 10, 2025, our firm secured not just one, but three separate nolle prosequis (often shortened to nolle pros or nol pros) in a single day.
What Is a Nolle Pros?
Nolle prosequi is a Latin phrase meaning “will no longer prosecute.” In the legal world, it is a formal entry by the State announcing that it will no longer pursue charges against a defendant. When a case is nolle prossed, the prosecution drops the charges, often because conflicting evidence or a strong defense theory makes it clear the case cannot move forward. For our clients, this means they are no longer burdened by the weight of those accusations.
Why It Matters for Clients
Facing criminal charges, whether serious or minor, can upend every part of a person’s life. It threatens reputations, careers, finances, and family stability. A nolle pros brings relief, closure, and a fresh start. Securing even one of these outcomes is cause for celebration. Securing three in the same day underscores our dedication, preparation, and relentless advocacy.
Our Commitment
At Michael P. Maddux, P.A., we know that behind every case file is a person, a family, and a future worth protecting. Securing three nolle pros in one day is not only a professional victory but also a reminder of why we do this work: to safeguard our clients’ rights and give them their lives back.
Fall weekends in Florida often revolve around football tailgates, but what begins as a fun tradition can quickly lead to serious legal trouble. Recent events show just how seriously law enforcement takes underage drinking and related offenses.
According to recent news, a coordinated underage drinking sting in Tampa’s SoHo and Ybor districts resulted in 19 arrests. These enforcement actions highlight the increased scrutiny during weekends packed with tailgates, parties, and nightlife.
Police officers closely monitor these events for underage drinking, the use of fake IDs, and impaired driving. Students and young adults may not realize that being caught with a fake ID, drinking underage, or driving under the influence can lead to criminal charges, loss of driving privileges, steep fines, and even jail time. Beyond the immediate penalties, these offenses can create a permanent criminal record, potentially affecting scholarships, employment opportunities, and future professional licenses.
Our firm is experienced in defending clients against these charges and works to protect your rights, reputation, and future. If you or someone you know has been arrested in connection with these offenses, contact Michael P. Maddux, P.A. immediately for experienced legal representation.
Fall weekends in Florida often revolve around football tailgates, but what begins as a fun tradition can quickly lead to serious legal trouble. Recent events show just how seriously law enforcement takes underage drinking and related offenses.
According to recent news, a coordinated underage drinking sting in Tampa’s SoHo and Ybor districts resulted in 19 arrests. These enforcement actions highlight the increased scrutiny during weekends packed with tailgates, parties, and nightlife.
Police officers closely monitor these events for underage drinking, the use of fake IDs, and impaired driving. Students and young adults may not realize that being caught with a fake ID, drinking underage, or driving under the influence can lead to criminal charges, loss of driving privileges, steep fines, and even jail time. Beyond the immediate penalties, these offenses can create a permanent criminal record, potentially affecting scholarships, employment opportunities, and future professional licenses.
Our firm is experienced in defending clients against these charges and works to protect your rights, reputation, and future. If you or someone you know has been arrested in connection with these offenses, contact Michael P. Maddux, P.A. immediately for experienced legal representation.
Michael Maddux recently joined host Steve Riley on the Great Practice, Great Life podcast to share how he transformed his law firm’s marketing efforts into a data-driven, team-powered system that boosted case volume and revenue.
The episode, "Gamifying Law Firm Marketing: How a Scorecard Can Transform Your Practice," explores Michael’s journey from his time as an assistant state attorney in Florida to becoming a civil rights advocate and innovator in legal marketing. Now available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Youtube, this conversation is packed with insights for attorneys looking to grow their practice while maintaining a strong work-life balance.
Recognized by The Tampa Bay Times as one of Tampa Bay's top court cases to watch in 2025, the legal proceedings involving journalist Tim Burke highlight significant issues surrounding press freedom and digital privacy. Attorneys Michael Maddux and Mark Rasch are representing Burke as he faces charges related to accessing and publishing unaired Fox News footage.
You can learn more about this case by reading the full article on The Tampa Bay Times here.
We are excited to be a part of the new LoveINC Legal Ministry! Through organizations like this one, we are able to reach and serve more people in our community seeking legal help. Thank you for this recognition and opportunity, LoveINC!
Last Friday we celebrated Cheyla’s birthday together at Luv Child. It is easy to celebrate someone who works so hard and does so much to support everyone in the office. Happy Birthday to Cheyla!
At Maddux Attorneys, we love to celebrate victories outside of the office. This weekend, Cheyla and Jen completed a 1/2 marathon together in Sarasota! While is was Cheyla’s first ever half marathon, Jen has completed 3. We’re so proud of these two!
Oh what fun it is to attend a Christmas Party! Paralegals Carrie and Cheyla attended this year’s Mistletoe Mixer hosted by Ligori & Ligori Attorneys at Law. We are so thankful for a community of law offices who constantly support one another.
Tis the season for attending holiday parties! Thank you Curry Law Group for inviting us to such a wonderful gathering. Happily representing Michael P. Maddux P.A. were Carrie, Cheyla, and Chris!
This holiday season we’re bringing fresh bagels and a Christmas card to all of our favorite business partners. THANK YOU for working with Maddux Attorneys and making 2023 so successful!
Give back this holiday season by supporting the Lotus Coalition! It’s getting chilly outside, so we are assisting the Lotus Coalition in gathering winter clothing and blankets for those in need. You can drop off your donation items at our office (2102 W. Cleveland St. Tampa, FL) anytime Monday-Friday, 9AM-5PM.
To see more information about the work of the Lotus Coalition, click here!
This morning, Michael attended the Tampa Bay Ethics Award Breakfast as a guest of Colonel DJ Reyes. Colonel Reyes was presented the 2023 Tampa Bay Ethics Award. Colonel Reyes and Michael are not only good friends, but they are also working to bring Veteran’s Treatment Court to the federal system.
Check out the November edition of the Monthly Maddux! Didn’t receive one in your email inbox? Email [email protected] to be added to the list and stay up to date on everything going on with Maddux Attorneys!
Attorney Michael P. Maddux delves into the legal intricacies, exemptions, and consequences, shedding light on key statistics and the importance of gun safety. It is important to understand the changes brought about by Florida's Constitutional Carry law and its impact on Stand Your Ground defenses.
Paralegals Carrie and Cheyla also attended as proud representatives from Michael P. Maddux, P.A.
Michael spoke at this year’s “Restored Purpose” event hosted by the Timothy Initiative. Michael is the Board President of this organization and works closely with them to achieve their mission of helping men find recovery and new life in Christ through Recovery, Work Therapy, Community, and Discipleship. At the Timothy Initiative, men are given the chance to be the person God has made them to be; the father, husband, son, or brother that their families need.
Be on the look out for a “Save the Date” for the next big event for the Timothy Initiative, “Stories of Hope”. Want to learn more or partner with this incredible organization? Click here!
