Miami Loitering and Prowling Attorney

If you or a loved one has been arrested or charged with loitering and prowling, it is critical to consult with an experienced Miami loitering and prowling attorney as soon as possible to ensure your rights are protected. You need the counsel of an experienced lawyer to guide you through the process and maximize your chances of resolving your case with a favorable outcome.

What is Loitering and Prowling?

Florida Statute 856.021 pertains to the crime of loitering or prowling. This crime is defined as lingering in a place, either on foot or in a vehicle, in a manner that is not usual for law-abiding individuals and under circumstances that would cause a reasonable person to feel unsafe.

According to the law, certain circumstances may be considered when determining whether a person’s presence warrants justifiable and reasonable alarm or concern for the safety of others. These circumstances may include taking flight upon the appearance of a law enforcement officer, refusing to identify oneself, or attempting to conceal oneself or an object.

Opportunity to Explain

Before arresting someone for loitering or prowling, a law enforcement officer must give the person an opportunity to explain their presence and conduct unless flight or other circumstances make this impracticable. If the person’s explanation is believed to be accurate and would have dispelled the alarm or concern, they cannot be convicted of the offense.

Penalty for Loitering and Prowling

Anyone found guilty of committing this crime is guilty of a second-degree misdemeanor, punishable by up to 60 days in jail and a fine of up to $500.

Contact an Experienced Miami Loitering and Prowling Lawyer

By immediately hiring an experienced Miami loitering and prowling lawyer to defend yourself, you are minimizing the chances that your criminal case will have lasting consequences for your career, personal life, and reputation.

CALL US NOW for a CONFIDENTIAL CONSULTATION at (305) 538-4545,  or simply take a moment to fill out our confidential and secure intake form.* The additional details you provide will greatly assist us in responding to your inquiry.

*Due to the large number of people who contact us requesting our assistance, it is strongly suggested that you take the time to provide us with specific details regarding your case by filling out our confidential and secure intake form. The additional details you provide will greatly assist us in responding to your inquiry promptly and appropriately.

ALWAYS INVESTIGATE A LAWYER’S QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE BEFORE MAKING A DECISION ON HIRING A LAWYER

The material on this page represents general legal advice. Since the law is continually changing, some of the provisions here may be outdated. It is always best to consult a criminal defense attorney about your legal rights and responsibilities regarding your particular case.