Legal Question in Civil Rights Law in Florida

Re: recording conversations

It is illegal to audio tape someone without their consent, no matter what type of equipment is used. (There are exceptions for law enforcement personnel.) There is no law against videotaping someone in public. This may include audiotaping, such as when you use a video camera in a public place and pick up people's voices, because it is out in the open, not hidden, and people are presumed to have knowledge and to consent when they are in public. But if it's private or secret, it may be an invasion of privacy for which you could be sued.

Without knowing the facts about your situation, it sounds like you want to record someone without their knowledge. Don't do it. That makes you as guilty of wrongdoing as you probably think they are of other wrongdoing.

Hope that helps.

Good luck.

Jeff Sheldon

Jeffrey L. Sheldon, Esquire

The Sheldon Law Firm

17804 St. Lucia Isle Drive

Tampa, FL 33647

813.986.7580

(f) 813.986.7489

(Admitted in Fl., MD, D.C., and Pa.)

[email protected]

http://www.SheldonLawFirm.com

Disclaimer: This posting does not and is not intended to constitute legal advice. It is not confidential, nor is it privileged, and it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Please consult with an attorney for advice specific to the facts of your case.