Bill > S1838

This bill creates comprehensive legal protections for court officials by establishing new criminal penalties for actions that threaten, harass, or retaliate against individuals working in the judicial system. The bill defines several key terms, including "court official" (which encompasses judges, magistrates, jurors, clerks, judicial assistants, and other court personnel) and "harass" (meaning a course of conduct causing substantial emotional distress). The legislation introduces three primary types of criminal offenses: tampering with a court official, harassing a court official, and retaliating against a court official. The severity of these offenses ranges from misdemeanors to felonies, with punishment levels determined by the type and severity of the underlying investigation or proceeding. For example, tampering with or harassing a court official during an investigation of a misdemeanor would be treated less severely than similar actions during an investigation of a serious felony. The bill also includes enhanced penalties if the harassment or retaliation results in bodily injury. By expanding legal protections, the legislation aims to safeguard court personnel from intimidation, threats, and actions intended to obstruct justice or interfere with official proceedings, thereby helping to maintain the integrity of the judicial system.

Budget and Finance

Criminal Justice (Senate), Fiscal Policy (Senate)

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/1838