Many of the new laws put a significant focus on public safety, environmental protection, and changes to the state's approach to capital punishment. Key changes include expanded execution methods, stricter penalties for animal cruelty and dangerous driving, and new protections for specified adults.
Here is a summary of new Florida laws effective July 2025 that affect
legal rights pertaining to criminal defense, personal injury, and driving.
1. HB 351 – “Dangerous Excessive Speeding” Now a Crime
Driving 50 mph+ over the speed limit or 100 mph+ in a reckless manner now counts as a second‑degree misdemeanor, not just a traffic infraction.
Penalties:
- 1st offense: Up to 30 days jail and/or $500 fine
- Repeat offense (within 5 years): Up to 90 days jail, $1,000 fine, and license suspension (180
days–1 year).
A court appearance is now mandatory for these charges—even on initial citations.
2. Florida Supreme Court Rule Change – Speedy Trial Amendments
- New timing: “Speedy trial” deadlines now begin only when formal charges are filed, not when arrested.
- Deadlines revised: Prosecutors have 60 days (formerly 45) to try a case after a
speedy‑trial demand.
Defendants face longer pretrial periods and must act quickly to preserve rights.
3. Personal Injury Claims – Statute of Limitations Reminder
- No changes taking effect on July 1; however, Florida’s two-year deadline to file most personal injury lawsuits remains in place since March 2023.
Accidents still must trigger a claim within 24 months, or rights may be lost.
4. HB 255 – Dexter’s Law: Tougher Penalties for Animal Cruelty
- Aggravated cruelty now carries 25% harsher sentences.
- A public listing of individuals convicted will launch January 1, 2026, but the law takes
effect July 1, 2025.
Charges involving injured persons or witnesses who report animal cruelty may invoke legal defenses tied to this registry.
Why These Changes Matter:
Criminal Defense: Even a first-time
speeding offense can now lead to misdemeanors, jail time, and a criminal record — making prompt legal counsel more critical than ever.
Personal Injury: The unchanged 2-year filing deadline underscores the importance of timely action after any crash or
injury.
Driving Risks: With “super-speeder” penalties and mandatory court hearings, what used to result in fines may now end in criminal charges and suspended licenses.
How you can help preserve your rights with the new Florida laws effective July 2025:
- Think beyond the ticket: Exceeding speed limits by extreme margins is now criminal.
- Act fast on speeding charges: Court appearances and legal strategy should begin immediately.
- Protect your rights: Criminal cases may now drag out longer before trial—stay vigilant on deadlines.
- Injury victims: You still have just 2 years to sue—don’t wait.
Complete list of all new Florida laws effective July 2025
For questions or concerns about any new Florida laws effective July 2025, we offer a free consultation and detailed case evaluation.
