Category: Law Firm Practice

Understanding Marchman Act Criteria: Essential Guidelines for Involuntary Treatment

A person in a rehabilitation group session, symbolizing the importance of understanding the Marchman Act criteria.

If you’re worried about a loved one’s substance abuse, understanding the Marchman Act criteria is crucial. Key Takeaways The Marchman Act provides a legal framework for involuntary treatment of individuals with substance abuse issues in Florida, emphasizing intervention rather than punishment. Criteria for filing a Marchman Act petition include demonstrating substance abuse impairment, risk to…
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Top Steps to Assert Parents’ Rights When a Child Is Baker Acted

A snapshot of a sad child, representing the crucial steps to assert parental rights when a child is Baker Acted.

The Baker Act, while intended to help individuals in mental health crisis, can be a frightening and confusing experience for parents. When your child is involuntarily examined or held for treatment, it’s essential to understand your rights and advocate for their well-being. Meltzer & Bell, P.A.: Compassionate Advocates for Families We understand the urgency and…
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How to Get Guardianship of a Child Without Going to Court: Simple and Effective Steps

Parents arguing with a child in sight at a lawyer's office, representing the challenges of obtaining guardianship without going to court

Looking to learn how to get guardianship of a child without going to court? In many situations, it’s possible to obtain temporary guardianship through straightforward methods like written agreements or power of attorney. Key Takeaways Temporary guardianship can be established without court involvement through written agreements or power of attorney, allowing for quick arrangements in…
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Guardianship vs Power of Attorney: Key Differences Explained

A person hugged by a family member, underscoring the importance of understanding the key differences between Guardianship and Power of Attorney

Planning for incapacity involves choosing between a guardianship vs power of attorney. When a loved one faces incapacity due to illness, injury, or aging, ensuring their well-being becomes paramount. In Florida, both guardianship and power of attorney can offer solutions, but understanding their key differences is crucial for making the right choice. Guardianship vs. Power…
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Marchman Act vs Baker Act: Key Differences Explained

A person with a concerned family member in consultation, highlighting the key differences between the Marchman Act and Baker Act

When a loved one is struggling with severe mental health issues or substance abuse, you want to help them get the care they need. In Florida, two legal tools exist to address these crises: the Baker Act and the Marchman Act. While both can lead to involuntary treatment, understanding their differences is crucial for navigating…
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Recreational Marijuana in Florida: What’s Next? Meltzer & Bell, P.A. Weighs In

The potential legalization of recreational marijuana in Florida continues to spark debate, raising questions about the impact on our state’s criminal justice system. Recently, WPTV explored this issue in-depth, including insights from Meltzer & Bell criminal defense attorney, Ari Goldberg. With our experience defending Florida residents facing marijuana-related charges, we offer our perspective on this…
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Meltzer & Bell P.A. Wins the 2017 Law Firm 500 Award

Law Firm 500 is organization that celebrates the fastest growing law firms in the United States. The year 2017 marks the second annual Law Firm 500 Conference and Gala, where Law Firm 500 celebrated the fastest growing law firms in the country. The law firms were evaluated and ranked in order based on gross revenues…
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  • Law Firm 500 Fastest Growing Law Firms In the U.S - 2017 Honoree
    Meltzer & Bell, P.A. was an honaree for the Fastest Growing Law Firm In the U.S. award in 2017.
  • National College for DUI Defense
    The NCDD is a professional, non-profit corporation dedicated to the improvement of the criminal defense bar, and to the dissemination of information to the public about drunk driving law and related issues.
  • Broward Association of Criminal Defense lawyers
    BACDL's mission is to assist, support, and strengthen the Broward County criminal defense practitioner in the zealous defense of individuals and their Constitutional rights.
  • Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
    Promoting excellence and integrity in the practice of criminal law.
  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
    NACDL is an American criminal defense organization. Members include private criminal defense lawyers, public defenders, active U.S. military defense counsel, judges and more.
  • National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws
    NORML is an American non-profit organization based in Washington, DC whose aim is to achieve the legalization of non-medical marijuana in the United States.
  • DUI Defense Lawyers Association
    The DDLA was founded on principles of democracy, transparency, and freedom of speech. We provide support, resources and education to the top DUI attorneys nationwide.
  • Better Business Bureau
    The BBB, founded in 1912, is a private, nonprofit organization whose self-described mission is to focus on advancing marketplace trust.
  • Law Firm 500 Fastest Growing Law Firms In the U.S - 2017 Honoree
  • National College for DUI Defense
  • Broward Association of Criminal Defense lawyers
  • Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws
  • DUI Defense Lawyers Association
  • Better Business Bureau