Florida Drug Laws in 2017.

We hope you have had a safe and secure 2016.  The drug laws are changing as the New Year approaches in the United States.  Many states are changing their marijuana laws.  Be careful.  Don’t get caught in believing that Florida has become more relaxed in its enforcement of marijuana possession in 2017!  The new administration may actually be tougher on crime.

We hope that you never need a great, aggressive criminal drug attorney, but if you do it is important to hire a firm that has experience in all types of drug possession.  There are pills, cocaine, heroin, methamphetamines, marijuana (both growing and carrying), and of course trafficking of any and all drugs.  There are various ways and means of getting busted.

Don’t panic.  If you get arrested in the state of Florida for drug possession or trafficking make your first call to Kidder and Bennet.  Nat Kidder and William Bennet will bring their combined half-century of criminal defense experience to your case to help you through your drug case.  In Pinellas County keep this phone number handy (727) 821-8000.

What is Mediation?

You have the opportunity to resolve a dispute outside of court.  It does not have to always be a contentious court battle when two parties disagree on a matter.  Why not reach a win/win?  It is possible with mediation handled by expert, experienced negotiators who have resolved disputes for decades.

What is the benefit of mediation in the first place?

1.  You can maintain a civil relationship with the other party.

2.  There is much less angst than there is with a trial.
3.  It will speed up the process and reach a conclusion quicker.
4.  It is less expensive…isn’t that a great reason?

In the state of Florida you have a couple of certified Florida Supreme Court mediators who bring a combined half century of experience to the process.  They are Florida mediator attorneys Nat Kidder and Bill Bennett.  Do not let this disagreement fester any longer!  Call on the Florida professionals at handling disputes located in St. Petersburg at (727) 821-8000.

When Should a Family Law Decision Be Appealed?

Decisions made in family court in the state of Florida are often contentious.  One of the parties is likely unhappy with the decisions that are made.  What often happens is that both sides enter the proceedings with a positive feeling about the outcome.  When the dust settles someone is usually left feeling like “I did NOT see THAT coming”.

Now, let’s get down to the business of WHEN it is appropriate to appeal a family law court decision.  It is more common than perhaps you suspect that there are glaring errors in the proceedings.  You also may be the victim of fraud by your spouse and his or her attorney.  That couldn’t happen…could it?  NAAH…never!

It’s time to pick up the phone and call a St. Petersburg family law appeal attorney.  You get two for the price of one with Kidder and Bennett.  These two established, successful Pinellas County family lawyers will bring a combined half century of experience to your challenge.  Call the office today located at 275 96th Ave. North at (927) 821-8000.

Domestic Violence Issues.

In the Sunshine State civil courts issue domestic violence injunctions.  If battery is part of the charge, then the criminal courts may get involved.  You want to talk about stressful, the hearings that follow will test the most grounded of individuals.  When someone you have cared about hurts you the reaction is often one of denial.  What did I do to prompt this behavior?

There is not only physical damage, but potentially emotional turmoil and concern over minor children in the relationship.  Please get to a safe place where you are free from additional harm.  We suggest Community Action Stop Abuse (CASA).  Call the domestic violence hot line or simply dial 911 if danger is imminent.

When you have cleared your head a bit, then call on Kidder and Bennett.  They bring over a half-century of knowledge and experience to the table.  Nat Kidder and Bill Bennett are domestic violence abuse attorneys in Pinellas County.  Call them today and make an appointment for a free consultation at their office in St. Petersburg (727) 821-8000 - and stay as calm as possible.

DUI Manslaughter Accusations.

There is not much on earth worse than being accused of DUI manslaughter.  When a car accident results in the death of loved ones the guilt of that fact is heavy enough.  Now, someone is held responsible for this tragic accident.  The individual may have a spotless record prior to this event, but this is not a slap-on-the-wrist event…it could be a life-changer.

In the state of Florida penalties for DUI manslaughter or vehicular homicide are severe.  Even first offenders may be facing 15 years of prison time!  If the accused left the crime scene now a conviction could mean 30 years in prison and a first degree felony conviction.  You also may be facing anywhere from a 3 year to a lifetime driver’s license suspension.

If you or a loved one has been arrested for either of these offenses do not hesitate a single minute.  Pick up the phone and call Pinellas County, Florida DUI manslaughter defense attorneys Nat Kidder and Bill Bennett.  The Kidder and Bennett law firm is located in St. Petersburg.  Call them at (727) 821-8000 and tap into their half century of combined DUI defense experience.

Pursuing Child Support.

You’ve won and you are entitled to child support from your ex.  Now what?  Being awarded child support and actually receiving it are way too often two different things.  Nobody wants to chase down their former spouse to get the money that their children are entitled to.  DO NOT let it slide!  Go after everything that your kids are entitled to.

Both parents have responsibility in raising their children to adulthood.  You should seek help from the courts when someone refuses to pay their fair share.  It is important to request the help of a family law judge.  You may even need to seek an arrest warrant for unpaid support.  In Florida you can have their driver’s license revoked or pursue their IRS tax refunds.

To accomplish this, you need the tireless work of a great family lawyer.  Two of the best in Pinellas County, Florida are Nat Kidder and Bill Bennett.  Kidder and Bennett child support lawyers located in St. Petersburg will aggressively fight for what you and your children deserve.  Don’t let another day pass.  Call them at (727) 821-8000 and tap into their half century of combined experience.

Domestic Partnerships in Florida.

What are your legal options if you are in a same-sex or heterosexual relationship, but not officially married?  There are certain limitations and responsibilities that arise from domestic partnership in the Sunshine State.  There is no reason to approach the subject with a negative impression.  There are certain benefits that domesticity carries.

1.  Shared rights to parent your children whether they be adopted or born to the two of you.

2.  Public benefits.  You are entitled to many of them about which you may not even know.

3.  Being able to obtain YOUR health insurance through your partner and/or children.

4.  Property rights which may include different types of goods and land.

All of this and more must be sorted out by attorneys that have experience in this area.  You need to contact Kidder and Bennett.  For over a quarter of a century they have been the choice of those that live in the Ft. Lauderdale area.  They are experienced domestic partnership lawyers in Pinellas County.  Call them at your first opportunity at (727) 821-8000. 

Dealing in Stolen Property.

In the state of Florida, you may be accused of dealing in fencing stolen property.  Even if you purchase, let alone sell stolen goods that have resulted in the rightful owner being deprived of those possessions you could be accused of this crime.  The way that the state looks at it the purchaser creates the incentive to sell the goods so they are prosecuted very aggressively.

There are some specific elements that must be present to convict you of dealing in stolen goods-

1.  The property MUST be considered as actually stolen.

2.  The property must have been received and in the possession of the buyer.

3.  The receiver actually knew they were receiving stolen goods.

4.  There must be intent to deprive the rightful owner of his or her possessions.

Many times an accusation and arrest for this crime is an honest mistake and a true misunderstanding.  Remember, it is not a crime to buy what you KNOW to be a stolen good, then immediately turn it over to the police!  With so many gray areas, you need to contact Kidder and Bennett.  They are experienced stolen property defense lawyers in Pinellas County.  Call immediately at (727) 821-8000. 

Don't Miss First Fridays in St. Pete!

First Friday St. Pete

(Follow the link above for more information)

"On the first Friday of every month, the heart of downtown becomes St. Pete’s biggest block party. First Friday St. Pete is a showcase for the great bands, great drinks, and great food that make us Florida’s most exciting city."

Settling Divorce Cases.

Are you aware that many divorce cases are settled through mediation?  The family court of Pinellas County is specifically designed to protect YOUR rights during divorce.  Make sure that you take every advantage of that fact.  It is easy to become intimidated by the court process.  Don’t let that be your guidepost.  The confident ones are those that prosper in family court.

The first thing to do is find an attorney in the St. Petersburg area with a client-focused approach.  Having the procedures explained to you in a careful and complete manner will give you the confidence that you need to proceed to family court.  After the explanation process, you need to be sure that the attorney will stay with you through every stage all the way to the finish line.

For decades the law office of Kidder and Bennett has been doing exactly that!  They are your choice for a St. Petersburg divorce mediation or litigation lawyer.  If you reside in Clearwater, St. Petersburg, or anywhere around Pinellas County retain the assertive divorce representation that will shape the rest of your life.  Call Kidder and Bennett for a free consultation today at (727) 821-8000.

Degrees of Murder.

Just as there are degrees of burns there are degrees of murder - a great deal more harsh, of course.  When it comes to being accused of this ultimate crime whichever one you are being tried for will determine your entire future.  Each type has its own set of circumstances and penalties with which you need to be familiar.

1.  Third degree murder.  This is considered a second degree felony in legal terms.  The punishment may include up to 15 years in prison.  It is known as murder without premeditation.

2.  Second degree murder.  This may be a murky area which should be properly explained by your attorney.  Just know that it can be punishable by up to 30 years in state prison.

3.  First degree murder.  This is the type with which most of us are familiar.  It is a capital offense in which you could be put to death or spend your life in prison if found guilty.

As you can plainly see the degrees within which you may be charged will affect how you should be defended.  You must not trust that defense to just anyone.  Call on the services of Kidder and Bennett.  They are St. Petersburg’s murder defense attorneys serving all of Pinellas County with a combined 50 years of experience.  Call for a free consultation today at (727) 821-8000.

Protect Your Retirement During a Divorce Proceeding.

Pensions, 401Ks…these and more become points of contention during divorce proceedings.  Divorcing couples need to be cognizant of how these aspects are handled.  Too often the parties just want to get out of the union and they are not thinking about what is important down the road.  A secure path to retirement is something you will work years to attain.  Don’t give it up in a few months!

Consider military retirement.  Veterans are subject to special rules and need to consider those exemptions during divorce.  Private pension plans also come into play.  Retirement plans such as ERISA may very well be part of the outcome.  If couples contribute substantial amounts of their incomes to retirement plans then those comingled pensions are considered marital property.

You see, there is much to be considered during this contentious time.  It is much more about making sure that you get what is fair and equitable than just “getting out”.  To ensure that happens rely on the 50+ years of combined experience of Kidder and Bennett.  We are St. Petersburg’s Divorce retirement protection attorneys serving all of Pinellas County.  Call us today at (727) 821-8000.

Assault and Battery in Florida.

Happy 4th of July from everyone at Kidder and Bennett law firm in St. Petersburg!  Let’s get down to the nuts and bolts for a moment.  The hot, sticky summer weather often brings out the worst in some of Pinellas county’s residents.  Violent crime is more prevalent.  All of a sudden regular law-abiding citizens are pushed to the edge resulting in the accusation of assault and battery.

Assault is defined as a second degree misdemeanor.  It may actually involve a “hands on” act, but it can even be charged against someone who, in the opinion of another is acting in a threatening manner.  Battery is a very serious first degree violation.  This involves the actual touching or striking of another individual with the intent of doing harm.

There are many other variables that complicate the issue.  You must do damage control for yourself, your future, and your loved ones.  You also need to know that the issue is exacerbated if the alleged victim is over 65 years old.  For vigorous defense immediately contact St. Petersburg assault and battery attorneys Kidder and Bennett bringing a combined half-century of experience at (727) 821-8000.

Don't Miss the Fireworks this 4th of July Weekend!

Best Places to Watch Fireworks - Tampa Bay Area

 

We know you must be wondering where to watch fireworks in Pinellas County and are particularly interested in fireworks in Clearwater, Saint Petersburg, Tarpon Springs, Largo, and beyond!  Check out our full and complete list of Best Places To Watch Fireworks!  Follow the Link Above.

 

 

Am I Entitled to Child Support?

It may not be easy, but it is incumbent that you pursue every nickel of the child support payments to which you are entitled.  Do it for your kids.  They are the ones who suffer most when there is not enough money in the household.  One parent’s negligence may result in an entire family being disrupted and causing hardship.

When one parent refuses to obey a divorce order the other parent can and should seek help from the courts.  Even if you need to have the court issue an arrest warrant to get the other’s attention don’t get soft!  In Florida, you may even petition to have the negligent adult’s driver’s license revoked.  That should get their attention.

Whatever your particular situation, seek the council of a Florida Family Attorney for assistance.  In Pinellas County your clear choice is Kidder and Bennett.  Each attorney has a quarter of a century of experience dealing with dead-beat parents who are not fulfilling their half of the child support obligation.  Contact Kidder and Bennett today at (727) 821-8000.

An Increase in Domestic Violence.

One thing about summer - domestic violence seems to be on the rise.  Understanding domestic violence is the first step in trying to prevent it.  Acts of violence may include battery, assault, sexual battery and assault, stalking, false imprisonment, kidnapping, etc.  If these acts result in injury or worse there is a valid case for domestic violence.

In Florida the (CADV) Coalition Against Domestic Violence reported that there were more than 100,000 cases in the state in the latest reported year of 2014.  You know that number will probably continue to increase.  By the way, an adjunct to this is child abuse and anyone who fails to report it is subject to a hefty fine plus imprisonment.

If you or anyone that you love has been accused of domestic violence you must take immediate action.  When you contact the office of Kidder and Bennett you are calling two of the top domestic violence defense attorneys in Florida.  If you live in Pinellas County Florida reach out to St. Petersburg domestic violence attorneys Kidder and Bennett today by calling (727) 821-8000. 

Memorial Day 2016 St Petersburg & Clearwater

Memorial Day 2016 St Petersburg & Clearwater

<click link above to follow link for things to to this Memorial Weekend)

Memorial Day commemorates U.S. men and women who died while in the military service. It is a holiday many of us spend doing family gatherings, backyard BBQs or enjoying a nice evening out with friends and family. However we choose to celebrate Memorial Day in St Petersburg & Clearwater Florida, we do so by honoring those who have lost their lives for our great freedoms. 

Getting a Divorce in the State of Florida.

It is important to understand from the jump that Florida is a “no fault” state.  What this means is no one has to prove anything such as adultery to end a union between two people.  If either spouse wants to file for divorce under the auspices of the partnership being “irretrievably broken” then they may do so.  The court, however may take into consideration levels of liability when determining alimony.

Don’t forget one important factor.  At least one of the couple must have been a resident of the Sunshine State for at least 6 months.  A simple dissolution of marriage would be simple if everything falls into place.  Residency, pregnancy, greed, harmony, no minor children, etc. are all factors that may complicate the proceedings.

This is why it is imperative to consult with a family attorney in Florida.  When you contact the office of Kidder and Bennett you are talking to a premier family law firm in the Tampa/St. Pete area.  Make the right decision about your future.  If you live in Pinellas County Florida reach out to St. Petersburg divorce attorneys Kidder and Bennett today by calling (727) 821-8000. 

Finding a Certified Mediator in the State of Florida.

Finding the right mediator to help you settle a dispute may be one of the most important things you ever do.  A disagreement between two partners may create a rift that can end up in an ugly and very expensive court battle.  Your mission in settling something of this magnitude should always be to “keep it out of court”.

Mediation is the antithesis of a trial.  You avoid the stress, expense, and enormous amount of time that a trial can entail.  By mediating a dispute, you may preserve a positive relationship that took years to build.  The process can be completed in a fraction of the time it would take for a court proceeding.  The cost is less, the stress is reduced, and you have some control over the final decision.

When you contact the office of Kidder and Bennett you effectively get two mediators in one.  Nat Kidder and Bill Bennett both bring 25 years of mediation experience to the table.  It may be one of the best decisions you have ever made.  If you live in Pinellas County Florida reach out to St. Petersburg mediation attorneys Kidder and Bennett today by calling (727) 821-8000. 

Clearwater Beach Taste Fest 2016

Clearwater Beach Taste Fest 2016
<click above for more information>

May 6, 2016 - 6-9pm

"Get ready to tease your taste buds at this delectable event on Clearwater Beach! Catch a famous Clearwater Beach sunset and listen to cool jazz by contemporary jazz artist Eric Darius from 6-9 p.m. Festivities will include the opportunity to enjoy fine wines, craft beers and signature dishes foods from over 30 of the area's finest restaurants."

Protect Your Rights in a Domestic Violence Case.

Civil courts are responsible for issuing a response to a petition in a domestic violence matter.  If there is a domestic battery charge the criminal court may become involved and issue a restraining order.  What follows may be an overwhelming ordeal that no individual would ever want to undergo without representation.

Someone that you have trusted has accused you of hurting them or they have hurt you.  Now you not only are concerned about your own future, but that of your children and pets as well.  And on top of that, your finances may be adversely affected.  There are local organizations from whom you may seek immediate help.  The Community Action Stop Abuse and The Haven of RCS are two of them.

Ultimately you will need an attorney to represent you.  Kidder and Bennett law firm is your domestic violence criminal defense attorney in Pinellas County Florida.  No matter on what side of a dispute you may fall you need aggressive representation.  Contact the St. Petersburg FL office of Kidder and Bennet today at (727) 821-8000.

Proof of Paternity in Florida.

There may come a time in your life where proving or disproving a father’s paternity becomes a life-changing matter.  Once paternity has been established a father’s options are opened wide.  He may now establish or restore his visitation and child-raising rights.  Inherent in those rights are child support, insurance, and eventually inheritance.

Here are some things to remember when determining if a man is THE father…

1.  If the child in question was born or even conceived while he was married to the birth mother.

2.  He legally adopted the child

3.  A court proceeding determines that he is the father

4.  And, best of all when mother and father legally acknowledge that HE is the biological father.

You don’t need to appear on Maury Povich to establish paternity.  You may however need the assistance of St. Petersburg Family Lawyers Kidder and Bennet.  Our attorneys will apply their quarter of a century of experience to help you establish all of the rights and obligations of paternity in the state of Florida.  Contact the office of Kidder and Bennet today at (727) 821-8000.

Things to do on Easter Weekend 2016

Things to Do on Easter Weekend 2016 in St Petersburg & Clearwater

"Easter Weekend 2016 in St Petersburg & Clearwater has a lot to offer for events, dining and more. Enjoy an Easter Sunday brunch in St Petersburg & Clearwater or check out one of the family friendly events for Easter. Be sure to check out the local St Petersburg & Clearwater Florida events guide to find the perfect plans for Easter Weekend." - Click the link above. 

How to Resolve a Conflict Out of Court.

When all is said and done and you are about to head into a lengthy and expensive court battle it is time to take stock.  Is it possible for you to settle your dispute out of court and gain what you wish from the result?  The final outcome must be a win/win or you will never get the other party to agree to mediation.

You need a safe, secure, and neutral environment to discuss the particulars.  This eliminates the expense and stress of airing your side of the story in a courtroom.  The dispute in question may be between married couples, business partners, or even civil claimants.  Wouldn’t you rather come away feeling good about the results without subjecting yourself to a court battle?

Nat Kidder and William Bennett may well be the answer.  Nat is a Florida Supreme Court certified mediator.  From their office located at 255 96th Avenue North in St. Petersburg they will help you resolve the issues that have led you to this point.  They have comfortable private facilities thus reducing the stress and the court costs.  Please call them today at (727) 821-8000 and put your mind at ease.

When Should You Appeal a Divorce Decree?

Often times the opposing council in a divorce case will use every method possible to defend his or her client.  Not all of those methods are completely above board.  Family law decisions have a winner and a loser unlike criminal court decisions.  Expect the attorney defending the other side of the case to pull out all of the stops.

In Pinellas County Florida there are family law decisions that need to be reexamined.  There are very strict deadlines for appealing such a decision.  It is NOT the same as criminal law.  So it becomes imperative that you quickly seek council to find a St. Petersburg family law attorney that is skilled in appealing divorce decrees.  A fresh approach to your case may turn the tide.

If you feel that you have received an unfair decision in a family law case turn to Pinellas county family attorneys Kidder and Bennet.  From their office located at 275 96th Avenue North in St. Pete they will scrutinize the decision that has been rendered in divorce court and fight for your right to have it reviewed.  Give Kidder and Bennett attorneys at law a call today at (727) 821-8000.

Don't Miss Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival

Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival

"This popular festival returns with a lineup of concerts from musical legends, sensational new culinary selections – including duck tacos, lobster ravioli, truffle fries and almond coconut truffles – and an expanded  selection of more than 120 wines, craft brews and cocktails from around the world."

Saturday, March 5th 
10165 N McKinley Dr

Tampa, FL 33612

 

Defense for White Collar Crime.

White collar crimes don’t have the sensationalism of gun crimes and violent acts, but they are every bit as impactful on the people that they effect.  They are often referred to as non-violent crimes because they rarely include violent acts.  Defense against the accusation of this type of crime demands substantial knowledge of the proper course of action to secure a favorable outcome for the accused.

White collar crimes may include, but are not limited to:

1.)        Corporate Fraud

2.)        Money Laundering
3.)        Public benefit schemes
4.)        Forgery
5.)        Bad Checks
6.)        Identity Theft
7.)        Insurance Fraud
8.)        Exploitation of Senior Citizens
9.)        Mortgage Fraud
10.)      Internet Scams (becoming more and more prevalent)
 

With the stakes this high you need strong, experienced defense.  Kidder and Bennett attorneys, serving Pinellas County Florida have been dealing with these issues for over 25 years.  In the future we will discuss white collar crime as it pertains to drug-related charges.  Suffice to say if you or a loved one has been accused of such a crime, contact Kidder and Bennett immediately at (727) 821-8000. 

Child Custody Timesharing in Florida.

With the New Year comes new challenges such as sharing as much of yourself as you are able as a parent from a divorced household.  Hundreds of thousands of Floridians must deal with this matter every day.  You want to be the best parent that you can be, but you want your children’s lives to be as normal as possible.  Making your children a priority this year should be one of your top priorities.

It is time to consult a professional and carve out an effective plan concerning your goals as a parent and your child’s welfare.  In determining custody the court considers many variables such as your and your spouse’s fitness as a parent, the doling out of parental responsibility, the history of family interaction, and especially the continued continuity of the children’s lives.

Kidder and Bennett family attorneys in Pinellas County Florida have been dealing with family court issues for over 25 years.  Our lawyers work with you to achieve positive outcomes as it pertains to timesharing plans with your spouse.  Discover all of the aspects of divorce law that the professionals at Kidder and Bennett will handle on your behalf.  Call them today at (727) 821-8000.

Appealing a Conviction in Clearwater and St. Petersburg

Going into the process it is important to have this mindset - an appeal is NOT a new trial or an opportunity to change the outcome of a trial SIMPLY because you do not agree with it.  What your Pinellas County attorney is doing is appealing a ruling that a judge and/or attorney have misapplied the law OR another person has acted improperly in the initial trial.

Remember that appellate judges DO NOT hear new testimony or evidence.  They are empowered to consider the court record of the original trial.  Most appeals are decided solely upon the written briefs.  To frame a proper defense in the appellate process you need to find an attorney who has significant trial-level experience dealing with highly complex legal issues.  Remember, this is your LAST court of resort.

You may be interested in appealing a criminal or family law verdict.  At that moment it is time to consult Clearwater and St. Petersburg appellate law firm Kidder & Bennett at (727) 821-8000.  Nat Kidder and William Bennett have a combined half-century of defending criminal and family law cases.  Make an appointment today to visit them at their office located at 275 - 96th. Ave. North St. Petersburg, FL.

Crime in the St. Petersburg Florida Area.

How do the crime rates in the St. Pete metro compare with the rest of the Sunshine State?  The most recent annual statistics showed that there were 6297 crimes committed per 100,000 people in our area as compared to 3576 per 100,000 statewide.  That is a significantly higher rate than many others experience in the state of Florida.

Murder, rape, robbery, assault and other violent crimes tended to trend higher in the Tampa/St. Petersburg area.  When it comes to property crimes, St. Petersburg, FL is shown to be 71% higher than the Florida average and 95% higher than the national average.  This also means that the police are on higher alert to arrest someone for a suspected criminal act in our area.

It is important to get aggressive representation from a St. Petersburg criminal attorney.  If you or a loved one has been accused of a crime anywhere in Pinellas County immediately call the team at Kidder and Bennett.  Each of the attorneys has more than a quarter century of defending people who are accused of all types of crime.  Call them today at (727) 821-8000.