Wednesday, June 22, 2011

Florida Sexting Law Signed by Gov. Rick Scott

St. Petersburg Criminal Attorney and Former State Prosecutor Melinda Morris of the Morris Law Firm provides an update on legislation regarding Sexting.

Issue:

Sexting is the act of sending sexually explicit messages, photographs, or videos primarily between
mobile phones but can include any type of electronic transmission.

Until recently, juveniles in Florida could be arrested and charged with child pornography (a felony) for engaging in Sexting.  Legislation including HB 75 has been sponsored by Florida Representatives to reduce the consequences for children who engage in Sexting and has thus become known as the “Sexting Bill.”




Why This Matters To You:

After being delayed and bounced between the Florida House and Senate, Gov. Rick Scott finally signed the Sexting bill into law on June 21, 2011.

The new Florida law eases punishments on minors charged with Sexting.  Under the new law, first-time violations for minors come with a $60 fine or 8 hours of community service.  Additional violations carry stricter penalties.  A second offense is considered a first-degree misdemeanor under the new law.

While the new law sets the crime of Sexting in the proper context and provides more appropriate consequences for minors, it is still a crime.  Additionally, subsequent offenses carry harsher penalties that can result in serious criminal charges for juveniles.

What To Do Next:

If your child has been charged with Sexting, contact a St. Petersburg Juvenile Sexual Offenses Attorney to discuss possible defenses and specific strategies that may exist in your child’s case.  Call the Morris Law Firm at 727-388-4736 to discuss your child’s case directly with an attorney, or fill out our Online Form to be contacted for a Free Initial Consultation.  The Morris Law Firm can help and has specific knowledge and experience in Juvenile crimes and representing First Time Criminal Offenders throughout Pinellas County and the entire Tampa Bay, FL Area (St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Tampa, Hillsborough, Pasco, Bradenton, Manatee, and Sarasota).

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