Florida § 542.21 - Penalties for violation.
Full text of Florida Florida Statutes § 542.21 — Penalties for violation., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 542.21. Penalties for violation.
(1) Any natural person who violates any of the provisions of s. 542.18 or s. 542.19 shall be subject to a civil penalty of not more than $100,000. Any other person who violates any of the provisions of s. 542.18 or s. 542.19 shall be subject to a civil penalty of not more than $1 million. (2) Any person who knowingly violates any of the provisions of s. 542.18 or s. 542.19, or who knowingly aids in or advises such violation, is guilty of a felony, punishable by a fine not exceeding $1 million if a corporation, or, if any other person, $100,000 or imprisonment not exceeding 3 years, or by both said punishments. (3) The commencement of trial seeking civil penalties in any action under this section shall bar any subsequent criminal prosecution against the same person for violation of s. 542.18 or s. 542.19, based upon the same acts. The commencement of trial in a criminal prosecution for violation of s. 542.18 or s. 542.19 shall bar any subsequent action against the same person for recovery of civil penalties under this section based upon the same acts, but shall not bar a subsequent suit for damages or injunctive relief under ss. 542.22 and 542.23. (4) No action under this section or s. 542.23 shall be commenced by the Attorney General against any person who, at the time, is a defendant in a suit filed by the United States for violation or alleged violation of the federal antitrust laws involving substantially the same subject matter and seeking substantially the same relief.
Frequently Asked Questions About Florida § 542.21
What does Florida Statutes § 542.21 cover?
Section 542.21 ("Penalties for violation.") is part of the Florida Statutes, the codified statutory law of Florida. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Florida § 542.21?
A common citation format is "Florida Statutes § 542.21" (Florida). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Florida law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Florida official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Florida attorney.
How does Florida § 542.21 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Florida can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Florida.