Florida Prohibited Consensual Sexual Activity Laws
Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last reviewed February 27, 2018
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All states criminalize sexual behavior that is coerced, forced, and assaultive. Often, however, they also have laws regulating consensual sex between adults. These laws are rooted in the social norms of the state at the time they were written. For example, several states have laws prohibiting sodomy as "unorthodox" sexual activity. Prostitution is another consensual sexual activity that is commonly outlawed.
Anyone who has partied in Miami's clubs, where anything goes, would be surprised to learn that Florida is among the states that prohibits a range of consensual sexual activities. The main provisions of Florida's prohibited consensual sexual activity laws are summarized in the following article.
Prohibited Sexual Contact |
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Penalties and Sentences | Punishment for prohibited consensual activities varies based on the circumstances of a particular case and may include fines or a jail or prison sentence. Some factors that impact a defendant’s sentence include the exact crime charged, the defendant’s previous criminal history, and whether a minor was involved in the sexual activity. |
Note: State laws are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
Research the Law
- Florida Statutes
- Florida Legal Research
- Same-Sex Couples and the Law
- Crimes A to Z: Indecent Exposure
- Official State Codes
Questions About Florida Prohibited Consensual Sexual Activity Laws? Ask an Attorney
Some of Florida’s prohibited consensual sexual activity laws reflect outdated ideas about sexual norms. If you have questions about whether a particular behavior is illegal or if you have been accused of a sex crime, it's a good idea to contact a sex crimes lawyer who can help clarify the law and assist in preparing your legal defense, if necessary.
Can I Solve This on My Own or Do I Need an Attorney?
- Complex cases usually require a lawyer
- Experienced lawyers can seek to reduce or eliminate criminal penalties
- Sexual assaults & sex crime convictions often have long sentences and lifelong consequences
Get tailored legal advice and ask a lawyer questions. Many attorneys offer free consultations.
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