Each year, Florida legislators pass new laws designed to clarify current laws or to expand the meaning of existing laws. In some cases, new laws passed can have a significant effect on citizens in the state. Five laws recently passed in Florida could have an impact on you and your family, which is why you need to be aware of their enactment.
No Contact Orders
In an effort to protect domestic violence victims, Florida legislators passed a new law that allows a no-contact order issued by a judge to take effect immediately. The law, which took effect on October 1, 2015, better defines what a no-contact order means and includes wording that prohibits a defendant from contacting the victim orally or in writing. The new legislation states that communication “orally or in any written form, either in person, telephonically, electronically or in any other manner, either directly or indirectly through a third person, with the victim or any other person named in the order” is forbidden.
Explicit Videos as Revenge
As of October 1, 2015, it is illegal to post sexually explicit videos online of an ex-partner. The new law not only prohibits the publication of sexually explicit videos, but also photographs that may have been taken while the couple was together. A first offense is a first-degree misdemeanor and second offenses earn the offender a third-degree felony.
Prostitution Penalties
In an attempt to crack down on prostitution, Florida now has stronger penalties for those who pay for sex. The first offense is a first-degree misdemeanor, while subsequent offenses now have much harsher penalties. A second offense may now earn the offender a third-degree felony that could lead to a five-year prison sentence. A third offense is now a second-degree felony with prison terms of up to 15 years. Authorities say that prostitution often leads to drug addiction, human trafficking and other crimes that affect the quality of life of citizens in the state.
Diabetic Training
Police are now required to undergo training in order to recognize diabetic emergencies. Many times, diabetic drivers who suffer an emergency behind the wheel are believed to be driving under the influence. This new requirement for police training will provide officers with the tools necessary to better identify whether a driver may be suffering a medical emergency related to diabetes or if they are under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Electronic Tracking Devices
As of October 1, 2015, the state of Florida has made it illegal to place a tracking device in or on someone’s property without their knowledge and consent. This law stems from recent lawsuits in Florida against car dealerships that installed GPS tracking systems in vehicles without the knowledge or consent of the owner. Parents may still install tracking systems on vehicles owned by minors in their care, and law enforcement officials may also install these systems as part of investigations. Car dealers, private detectives and other citizens, however, must get the permission of the vehicle owner before installing such devices.
Contact Laporte, Mulligan & Werner-Watkins for Legal Representation
These five newly enacted laws may have an impact on you or your family. If you or someone you love has suffered consequences as a result of a violation of any of these laws, contact Laporte, Mulligan & Werner-Watkins, P.A. today. Contact us by phone or complete our simple query form online to set up a consultation to discuss your case.