The Miami Car Accident Lawyers at the Perazzo Law Firm understand that the Halo Law is effective as of January 1st, 2025.
But what exactly is the Halo Law and how does it effect Florida Residents in terms of safety and legal issues?
Florida’s new Halo Law, effective January 1, 2025, makes it illegal to come within 25 feet of first responders during active scenes like traffic stops or emergencies, after being told to back away. Violating this law can result in fines up to $500 and up to 60 days in jail. In this video, I explain the Halo Law, why it was introduced, how it affects your First Amendment right to record, and what happens if you don’t comply. I’ll also share a real-life case I handled in which a man was arrested for recording police officers from a distance, even though he didn’t interfere. 💡 Want to know if the Halo Law can really be enforced? What about the potential legal challenges? Watch the full video to find out!
LAWYER EXPLAINS THE HALO LAW
Hey everyone, welcome back to the channel!
My name is Attorney Jonathan Perazzo, also known as Law by JP. I’m licensed in the states of Florida, Georgia, and Texas.
Today, we’re talking about Florida’s new Halo Law, which went into effect on January 1, 2025. This law makes it a crime to come within 25 feet of first responders while they are conducting traffic stops or managing emergency situations.
This hits close to home for me because I handled a case like this back when I was a criminal defense attorney. I defended a man who was arrested for recording officers while keeping a safe distance. Today, we’re going to break down the Halo Law and how it might impact cases like the one I handled.
Here’s what the Halo Law establishes:
- If a first responder tells you to back away and maintain a 25-foot distance, you’re required by law to comply.
- Failure to do so can result in a misdemeanor charge, with penalties of up to $500 in fines and 60 days in jail.
- This law applies to situations involving law enforcement officers, firefighters, and paramedics while they are actively performing their duties.
Supporters of the law argue that it’s about protecting first responders from interference or potential threats. They claim that keeping people at a safe distance allows officers and paramedics to focus on their jobs without being distracted by bystanders.
Now, let’s clear something up:
This law does not take away your right to record. The First Amendment still protects your right to film public officials, including police officers, as long as you aren’t interfering with their duties. However, if a first responder instructs you to move back, you must stay at least 25 feet away. Refusing to comply could result in a charge of obstruction of justice.
This new law reminds me of a case I handled in Miami-Dade County. My client was a DJ at a promotional event and witnessed an arrest where a man was thrown to the ground. Standing about 20 feet away, my client began recording with his phone. Despite the video showing he complied with the officer’s command to back off by stepping into a nearby store and closing the door, he was still arrested (Read Full Story HERE).
Cases like this highlight potential issues with the Halo Law:
- How do you accurately measure 25 feet in a fast-moving situation?
What happens if someone believes they are far enough away, but an officer disagrees? - Terms like “harassment” and “interference” are subjective.
This could lead to inconsistent enforcement and discourage people from lawfully recording public interactions.
Similar laws have faced legal challenges. For example, in Arizona, a law prohibiting recording police within 8 feet was struck down for being too restrictive and violating the First Amendment. If the Halo Law is applied too broadly or inconsistently, it could also face legal challenges and potentially be struck down.
Takeaway:
The Halo Law is designed to enhance public safety, but it needs to be enforced carefully to avoid infringing on constitutional rights. Whether it holds up in court will depend on how it’s applied.
If you’re in Florida, stay informed, know your rights, and always comply with lawful orders to avoid unnecessary legal trouble.
Have any questions or thoughts? Drop them in the comments below. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and I’ll catch you next time!
PERSONAL INJURY LAWYER IN MIAMI
THE AIM OF THE HALO LAW
The Halo Law seeks to balance public safety with constitutional rights. While its intent is to protect first responders, its enforcement and interpretation will determine whether it succeeds without infringing on civil liberties. Over time, as legal cases arise, the law’s application may evolve.
For now, Floridians are advised to stay informed, respect the 25-foot rule, and avoid unnecessary legal troubles by complying with first responders’ instructions.
