Florida legal term
Missing child in Florida Criminal Law
Current through 2026 Florida legislative session
In Florida criminal law, “Missing child” 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 “Missing child” mean in Florida criminal law?
“Missing child” means a person younger than 18 years of age whose temporary or permanent residence is in, or is believed to be in, this state, whose location has not been determined, and who has been reported as missing to a law enforcement agency. (Fla. Stat. § 937.0201)
Statutes defining or using this term
Charges using this term
Related terms in the same statutes
This reference is informational and is not legal advice.