DeSantis signs bill to boost protections for court officials
Rep. Jenna Persons-Mulicka
The Family Law Section on Friday was praising Gov. Ron DeSantis for signing a bill that strengthens criminal penalties for threatening court officials — including quasi-judicial officers who preside over family law matters.
“We thank Gov. DeSantis for signing this good legislation into law, as well as Rep. [Jenna] Persons-Mulicka and Sen. [Jonathan] Martin for championing this policy in the Legislature.,” said Family Law Section Chair Chris Rumbold.
Sen. Jonathan Martin
Republican Rep. Persons-Mulicka, the prime sponsor of HB 1049, is a Ft. Myers attorney. Republican Sen. Martin, who filed the companion, is a Ft. Myers attorney and former prosecutor.
The bill contains a family law provision that expands the definition of “court official” to include general magistrates, special magistrates, child support enforcement hearing officers, and their administrative assistants.
The Family Law Section launched an initiative last year in response to increasing reports that various quasi-judicial officers were receiving threats or being harassed or intimidated.
Phil Wartenberg, a 13th Circuit magistrate, told a Senate committee that police were forced to awaken an Orlando hearing officer at 3 a.m. to warn her about credible threats investigators discovered on the dark web. Bill sponsors cited several other incidents.
“The Legislature heard powerful examples from the Family Law Section, which includes magistrates, about the real risk of harassment and retaliation that court personnel are faced with, especially in emotionally charged family law cases,” said Rumbold.
The bill creates new criminal offenses and amends several existing statutes relating to tampering with, harassing, or retaliating against court officials, and provides graduated penalties.
Depending on the affected investigation or proceeding, the penalties range from a misdemeanor to a capital felony.
Rumbold said the expanded definition of court official and tougher criminal penalties will offer “meaningful protections and peace of mind” for people who work in courthouses throughout the state.
“This is a significant step toward ensuring the safety and fairness of our judicial system. When we protect court officials, we strengthen the rule of law and safeguard the rights of all Floridians.”
