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Florida teachers face possibility of felony charges over books

On Behalf of | Feb 13, 2023 | CRIMINAL LAW - Criminal Law

Florida felony laws have been in the news recently because of the state’s so-called Stop WOKE Act, which imposes criminal penalties on teachers who share books deemed unsuitable with their students. Teachers found in violation of the law can face third degree felony charges.

Without clear guidance as to what books are unsuitable, school officials in Manatee and Duval counties have reportedly instructed teachers to remove books from classroom display or else cover them with paper until they can determine which books can stay and which can go.

Teachers now must fear the possibility of being charged with felonies for things that once seemed just part of their jobs.

Florida has five degrees of felonies –crimes that differ from misdemeanors in that they’re punishable by more than a year in prison. If you’re found guilty of a misdemeanor, you may face up to a year in prison but no more.

Felonies in the third degree

Felonies in the third degree, the lightest of the felonies, are punishable by up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine.

Help for those facing felony charges

There’s an old saying about how the wheels of justice turn slowly. However, when the law changes, things can change quickly. People who find themselves on the wrong side of the law deserve a defense.

Whether you are charged with a misdemeanor or a felony, these are not matters to face alone. If you have run afoul of the law or are concerned that you might be in a precarious situation, it’s helpful to speak with skilled counsel experienced in this area of the law.