New Legal Updates Empower Miami-Dade Residents with Expanded Jury Duty Exemptions

Miami, FL – In Miami-Dade County, fulfilling one’s jury duty is seen not only as a legal obligation but also as a fundamental civic responsibility. Individuals residing in this vibrant community might find themselves summoned to serve as jurors in various legal disputes, ranging from minor civil disagreements to major criminal cases. Eligibility to serve on a jury requires the individual to be at least 18 years of age, a U.S. citizen, and compliant with specific state and local laws. Additionally, those who have previously served are only eligible to be summoned again after a … Read more

Miami-Dade Judge Disqualifies Prosecutors Over Alleged Misconduct in Liberty City Gang Boss Case

MIAMI, Florida – Two prosecutors have been disqualified from a high-profile case involving the John Doe gang boss in Liberty City after allegations of prosecutorial misconduct surfaced. Miami-Dade County Circuit Judge Andrea Wolfson signed an order on Wednesday removing Miami-Dade State Attorneys Michael Von Zamft and Stephen Mitchell from the case. The decision was made based on instances of witness manipulation tactics and over 20 years of alleged misconduct by Von Zamft, as cited by Wolfson. Additionally, Wolfson pointed to Mitchell’s decision to follow Von Zamft’s lead without considering the consequences, emphasizing the importance of … Read more

Widow of Bicyclist Killed in Miami-Dade Crash Speaks Out After Multi-Million Dollar Jury Verdict

MIAMI (AP) – Miami-Dade Police has been ordered to pay a multi-million dollar jury verdict following a fatal crash involving a bicyclist. The widow of the man killed nearly three years ago spoke exclusively with CBS News Miami about the decision. Jeishy Zerpa, the widow of Juan Carlos Martinez, recounted the pain she continues to experience. “When I wake up on Saturdays, around the same time, I look at the clock and say this is when my life changed,” Zerpa said tearfully. Martinez was killed on the morning of February 27, 2021, when a Miami-Dade … Read more

Recent Changes in Florida Law Causing Delays for Inmates Seeking Release in Miami-Dade County

Miami, Florida – Changes to the law in Miami-Dade County have resulted in individuals accused of crimes being held in jail longer before seeing a first-appearance judge. In the past, it was common for those deemed not “high-risk” to pay a bond and be released shortly after their arrest. However, new legislation signed by the Florida legislature and governor has altered this practice. Under Florida law, individuals must appear before a first appearance judge within 24 hours of their arrest. However, due to the high volume of arrestees in Miami-Dade, many were able to bond … Read more