Title: Intimidation of a Judge

Summary: Subjects a person who intimidates or threatens a judge or a member of the judge's immediate family to criminal penalties under certain circumstances. Defines the terms "intimidation or threats" and "judge."

Full Text:
An act relating to intimidation of a judge; subjecting a person who intimidates or threatens a judge or a member of the judge s immediate family to criminal penalties under certain circumstances; defining the terms  intimidation or threats  and  judge ; providing an effective date. Be It Enacted by the Legislature of the State of Florida: Section 1.  Intimidation of a judge.  (1) A person who has a significant interest in a legal or administrative proceeding and who knowingly attempts to alter or affect a decision or ruling through intimidation or threats commits: (a) A misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083,Florida Statutes, if: 1. The underlying proceeding is a civil or administrative proceeding or the prosecution of a misdemeanor; or 2. The offender is acting on behalf of another person who is a party to the proceeding.(b) A felony of the third degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082,s. 775.083,or s. 775.084,Florida Statutes, if the underlying proceeding is the prosecution of a felony. (2) For purposes of this section: (a) Intimidation or threats  include, but are not limited to, actions or words that: 1.  Directly or indirectly threaten physical force, economic loss, damage to property, damage to career, or damage to the reputation of a judge or a member of the judge s immediate family;2. Are intended to create a situation requiring recusal or disq ualification of a judge;or 3. Consist of contacts or attempts to contact or that create a pattern of contact with a judge or a member of the judge s immediate family under false pretense swhich would reasonably cause a judge or a member of the judge s immediate family to fear for his or her safety. (b) Judge  means: 1. A judge or justice authorized by the State Constitution. 2. An administrative hearing officer. 3. An administrative law judge. 4. A magistrate. 5. An officer of the state acting in an adjudicatory capacity. Section 2. This act shall take effect October 1, 2011.