By A. Randall Haas — Protecting Your Rights and Your Future for Nearly Four Decades
Florida imposes some of the strictest residency restrictions in the country for individuals convicted of certain sexual offenses. Under Florida Statute 775.215, a person with a qualifying conviction is prohibited from living within 1,000 feet of a school, park, playground, or designated child-care facility.
If you live in Broward, Palm Beach, or Miami-Dade County and have been informed that your residence may violate the 1,000-foot rule, the situation can quickly escalate. You should leave the location immediately and speak with a defense attorney before taking further action.
Failure to update your address with law enforcement—even after moving—can result in additional felony charges.
For nearly 40 years, A. Randall Haas has defended individuals facing serious criminal allegations across South Florida. These cases require precision, strategy, and a clear understanding of Florida’s complicated residency laws—and our office is here to help.
What Prosecutors Must Prove in an Unlawful Residency Case
For the State to convict someone under §775.215, the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that:
- The defendant was previously convicted of one of the following:
- Sexual battery
- Lewd or lascivious conduct
- Sexual performance by a child
- Lewd or lascivious exhibition involving a computer
- Selling or buying a minor for sexual depiction
- The victim involved was under the age of 16.
- The conviction occurred on or after October 1, 2004.
- After this conviction, the defendant resided within 1,000 feet of a restricted location such as a:
- School
- Public or private park
- Playground
- Qualifying child-care facility
How Florida Defines These Locations
Understanding definitions is crucial—many alleged violations arise because authorities or property managers misunderstand the law.
- Child-Care Facility:
Must provide paid care for more than five unrelated children. Schools, Bible camps, summer camps, and temporary programs do not qualify. - Park:
Any area designated for recreational use where children regularly gather. - Playground:
A designated children’s space with permanent play structures. - School:
Elementary through high school institutions, not adult-only facilities.
These details often become central to the defense.
Defenses Attorney Haas May Use in Your Case
1. You Lived There First
If the school, park, playground, or child-care facility was built after you established residence, the statute allows this as a legal defense.
You cannot be held criminally responsible for changes made long after you moved in.
2. The Location Is Not Legally Restricted
Just because a place appears to be a school, playground, or child-care center does not mean it qualifies under Florida law.
Attorney Haas carefully examines aerial maps, property records, and definitions to challenge improper allegations.
3. Law Enforcement Measurement Errors
Police often rely on tools or distance methods that are inaccurate or inconsistent.
A small measurement mistake can determine whether a case should be dismissed.
4. Failure to Prove Required Intent
Residency cases can involve misunderstandings, landlord errors, or complications in the registration process—not intentional criminal behavior.
With four decades of experience, Attorney Haas knows how to challenge these details and expose weaknesses in the State’s case.
Penalties for Violating Florida’s 1,000-Foot Residency Rule
Depending on the underlying offense and circumstances, a violation of §775.215 may be charged as:
- First-Degree Misdemeanor
Up to 1 year in jail and a $1,000 fine - Third-Degree Felony
Up to 5 years in Florida State Prison and a $5,000 fine
These penalties can threaten your freedom, your future, and your ability to comply with registration requirements.
Your Freedom Matters — Speak With A. Randall Haas Today
When you are accused of violating Florida’s residency restrictions, you need an experienced criminal defense lawyer who understands the stakes. For nearly four decades, Attorney A. Randall Haas has defended good people facing difficult circumstances in Broward, Miami, and Palm Beach counties.
When you contact our office, Attorney Haas will:
- Review your residency and registration history
- Evaluate the legality of the alleged restricted zone
- Identify errors by law enforcement or prosecutors
- Build a strategic defense tailored to your situation
- Fight aggressively to protect your freedom and your future
Do not face the legal system alone.
Call or Text Attorney A. Randall Haas Today
📞 954-763-9211
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Confidential consultations available