What are the Teen Sexting Laws in Fort Lauderdale?

Most teenagers in Fort Lauderdale use electronic devices today, and many of them even have their own cell phones. While these devices are important and help parents stay in touch with their children and find their location, teens can also use them for unintended purposes, including sending or receiving inappropriate images. Parents learn that their teenagers are sexting more often than people think in Florida. Due to the teen sexting laws in the state, this act is an offense that the law is very clear about. Below, our Fort Lauderdale sex offense lawyer explains in further detail.

What are the Laws on Teen Sexting in Florida?

In Florida, there are specific laws that address minors who receive or send explicit images of themselves or other underage minors. The law acknowledges the serious nature of the issue while also differentiating between the actions of teens and actions of adults. State law in Florida defines teen sexting as knowingly using a computer or other electronic device to distribute or transmit naked videos or photos of themselves or another minor. The law also outlines penalties for possessing the same types of images sent by another minor.

A conviction for a first offense is punishable by a small fine and eight hours of community service. Some teenagers are actually ordered to complete an educational course about the risks associated with sexting. Second and subsequent offenses carry harsher penalties. Second offenses are classified as first-degree misdemeanors, which carry penalties of higher fines and up to one year in prison. Subsequent offenses are treated as third-degree felonies, punishable by high fines and up to five years in prison.

What to Do if Your Teen is Charged with Sexting

If your child has been accused of sexting, your response can drastically impact the outcome of your child’s case. The most important things to remember are as follows:

• Remain calm: Learning that your child has been charged with a crime is very upsetting but it is critical that you remain calm. Do not demand an explanation or make accusations. Your child is likely very frightened and if you do not remain calm, they may not want to share important information with you.
• Do not delete any images: It is natural to want to delete all images as soon as possible, but it is critical that you do not. This is important evidence and if you destroy it, you may face serious consequences.
• Cooperate with school officials and law enforcement: You can provide basic information to law enforcement officers and school officials but do not make additional statements. These can be used against your child.
• Contact a Fort Lauderdale sex offenses lawyer: When defending your child’s case, the knowledge and experience of an attorney is an invaluable resource. A lawyer can create the defense your child needs to protect their future.

Our Sex Offense Lawyer in Fort Lauderdale Can Help Your Family

At Haber Blank, our Fort Lauderdale sex offense lawyer knows how worried you are about your child and family. Our attorney has the necessary expertise to create the defense your child needs so they do not face the harsh penalties of a conviction. Call us now at 954-767-0300 or chat with us online to request a consultation and to get the legal help you need.

Source:

leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=0800-0899/0847/Sections/0847.0138.html