Florida § 794.08 - Female genital mutilation.

Full text of Florida Florida Statutes § 794.08 — Female genital mutilation., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 794.08. Female genital mutilation.

(1) As used in this section, the term “female genital mutilation” means the circumcising, excising, or infibulating, in whole or in part, the labia majora, labia minora, or clitoris of a female person. (2) A person who knowingly commits, or attempts to commit, female genital mutilation upon a female person younger than 18 years of age commits a felony of the first degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084. (3) A person who knowingly removes, or causes or permits the removal of, a female person younger than 18 years of age from this state for purposes of committing female genital mutilation commits a felony of the second degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084. (4) A person who is a parent, a guardian, or in a position of familial or custodial authority to a female person younger than 18 years of age and who knowingly consents to or permits the female genital mutilation of that female person commits a felony of the third degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084. (5) This section does not apply to procedures performed by or under the direction of a physician licensed under chapter 458, an osteopathic physician licensed under chapter 459, a registered nurse licensed under part I of chapter 464, a practical nurse licensed under part I of chapter 464, an advanced practice registered nurse licensed under part I of chapter 464, a midwife licensed under chapter 467, or a physician assistant licensed under chapter 458 or chapter 459 when necessary to preserve the physical health of a female person. This section also does not apply to any autopsy or limited dissection conducted pursuant to chapter 406. (6) Consent of a female person younger than 18 years of age or the consent of a parent, guardian, or person who is in a position of familial or custodial authority to the female person younger than 18 years of age is not a defense to the offense of female genital mutilation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Florida § 794.08

What does Florida Statutes § 794.08 cover?

Section 794.08 ("Female genital mutilation.") 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 § 794.08?

A common citation format is "Florida Statutes § 794.08" (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 § 794.08 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.