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HB 285

Required Notice of Intent to Contact a Victim

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Daryl Campbell and 1 co-sponsor

HB 285 empowers crime victims in Florida by allowing them to refuse communication with defendants' attorneys and ensuring their rights are upheld throughout legal proceedings.

Died in Judiciary Committee
#(vetoed)
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 285

Summary of HB 285: Rights of Crime Victims

Bill Information:
- Bill Number: HB 285
- Title: Rights of Crime Victims
- Status: Now in Criminal Justice Subcommittee
- Introduced: October 30, 2025
- Effective Date: July 1, 2026
- Primary Sponsor: Daley

Purpose and Intent

HB 285 aims to enhance the rights of crime victims within the Florida criminal justice system. The bill seeks to ensure that victims have greater control over their interactions with the defendant's attorney and are adequately informed of their rights throughout the legal process.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes the following amendments to existing Florida Statutes:

1. Amendments to Section 960.001

  • New Subsection (7):
    • Victims are granted the right to:
    • Refuse Communication: Victims may refuse to communicate with the defendant's attorney.
    • Notification Requirement: Victims can require that the prosecutor be notified of and present during any communications between the defendant's attorney and the victim.

2. Revisions to Section 960.0021

  • Court Advisement:
    • The courts are required to inform victims of their rights during arraignment, sentencing, or case-management proceedings. This includes:
    • The right to be informed, present, and heard at all stages of criminal proceedings.
    • Advance notification of judicial proceedings and scheduling changes.
    • The right to seek compensation and restitution.
    • The ability to consult with the state attorney's office regarding case disposition.
    • The right to make a victim impact statement during sentencing.
    • The rights established in the new subsection (7) regarding communication with the defendant's attorney.

Impact

Who Would Be Affected?

  • Crime Victims: The primary beneficiaries of this bill are crime victims, who will gain additional rights and protections in their interactions with the criminal justice system.
  • Defendants and Their Attorneys: The bill may impact how defendants and their legal representatives communicate with victims, as they will need to navigate the new requirements for notification and presence of prosecutors.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill is currently in the Criminal Justice Subcommittee and has been referred to the Judiciary Committee for further consideration.
  • If passed, the provisions of HB 285 will take effect on July 1, 2026.

Conclusion

HB 285 represents a significant step toward strengthening the rights of crime victims in Florida. By allowing victims to refuse communication with defendants' attorneys and ensuring their presence during such communications, the bill aims to empower victims and enhance their experience within the criminal justice system.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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