Florida to See Legal Battles Over Education, Hazing, and Medical Marijuana in 2018

From Leon County’s circuit court to the Florida Supreme Court, the outcomes of Floridian legal disputes could have long-lasting effects for residents.

Charter schools have been a hot topic in recent years. At the end of the 2017 legislative session, Governor Rick Scott signed HB 7069 into law. The bill contains many provisions, but is best known for being beneficial to charter schools. For example, under HB 7069, public schools must share funds raised through property taxes for construction with charter schools. According to The Daily Business Review, 2 constitutional challenges have been filed against the law. The 14 counties contesting HB 7069 claim that the law weakens local control over public schools. Another case was filed with the Florida Supreme Court; however, it is likely that the case will first be heard in circuit court.

The Florida Supreme Court, however, will hear a case involving the 2011 death of FAMU student Robert Champion during a hazing incident. At the time of his death, Champion was the drum major of FAMU’s marching band, the “Marching 100,” and he was beaten during a band ritual on a bus. Band member Dante Martin was sent to prison for Champion’s death after being found guilty of manslaughter and hazing charges. Martin plans to appeal to the Florida Supreme Court in early February and claims that the state law is both unconstitutional and vague.

Also in Leon County in early 2018, a circuit court judge will hear a case on medical marijuana. While Floridians voted to pass a constitutional amendment legalizing medical marijuana over a year ago, implementing the law has been tricky for the state. Orlando lawyer John Morgan, who supported the 2016 amendment, has filed a lawsuit against the state because lawmakers passed a measure that prohibits smoking medical marijuana, which Morgan states are unconstitutional. Morgan’s case is one of several cases regarding medical marijuana that Florida courts will see this year.

Do any of the above apply in your situation? If so, our Miami Lakes family law attorneys are here to help. Contact Adams Law, P.A. by calling (305) 615-2905, email our office, or use the contact form on our website to schedule a free consultation with a South Florida Family Law Lawyer.