Florida legal term
Excessive use of force in Florida Criminal Law
Current through 2026 Florida legislative session
In Florida criminal law, “Excessive use of force” is a term defined by statute rather than by its everyday meaning. Its statutory definition — quoted verbatim below — controls how the term is applied throughout the Florida criminal code.
What does “Excessive use of force” mean in Florida criminal law?
“Excessive use of force” means use of force that exceeds the degree of force permitted by law, policy, or the observing officer’s employing agency. (Fla. Stat. § 943.1735)
Statutes defining or using this term
Related terms in the same statutes
This reference is informational and is not legal advice.