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THE ROMEO AND JULIET LAW

 

The Romeo and Juliet Law of Florida

In 2007, Florida enacted what is commonly referred to as the "Romeo and Juliet" law.
This law allows certain individuals previously convicted of a Lewd or Lascivious offense or Sexual Battery to petition the court for removal from the sex offender registry. However, you can only petition for removal if you meet very specific eligibility requirements.

Also, for people convicted after 2007 of a Lewd or Lascivious offense, Sexual Battery, or Lewd or Lascivious Exhibition using a Computer, the law allows them to avoid being designated a sexual offender or sexual predator if they meet the same eligibility requirements. Importantly though, the ultimate decision is up to the individual judge.

 

Eligibility Under the Romeo and Juliet Law

  • You engaged in a consensual sexual encounter with a 14, 15, 16, or 17-year old minor;

  • You were no more than 4 years older than the minor at the time of the sexual encounter

  • You were subsequently convicted of:

    • Sexual Battery (F.S. 794.011), or

    • A Lewd or Lascivious Offense (F.S. 800.04);

  • You are required to register as a sexual offender (or predator) solely because of the above conviction;

  • You do not have any other convictions for a Lewd or Lascivious Offense, Sexual Battery, or Lewd or Lascivious Exhibition using a Computer.

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  • Call Orlando and Kissimmee Sex Crimes Defense Attorney Don Waggoner if you believe you could qualify for removal from the sex crimes registry and you would like to begin the petition process. The initial consultation is free.

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