Florida § 776.051 - Use or threatened use of force in resisting arrest or detention; prohibition.
Full text of Florida Florida Statutes § 776.051 — Use or threatened use of force in resisting arrest or detention; prohibition., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 776.051. Use or threatened use of force in resisting arrest or detention; prohibition.
A person is not justified in the use or threatened use of force to resist any arrest or detention by a law enforcement officer, or to resist a law enforcement officer who is engaged in the performance of his or her official duties as described in s. 943.10(1), if the law enforcement officer was acting in good faith and he or she is known, or reasonably appears, to be a law enforcement officer. As used in this section, the term “acting in good faith” means to make sincere and reasonable efforts to comply with legal requirements, even if the arrest, detention, or other act is later found to have been unlawful.
Source: official Florida text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Florida § 776.051
What does Florida Statutes § 776.051 cover?
Section 776.051 ("Use or threatened use of force in resisting arrest or detention; prohibition.") 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 § 776.051?
A common citation format is "Florida Statutes § 776.051" (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 § 776.051 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.