Tampa Attorney for Romeo and Juliet Removal from the Sex Offender Registry

The Brancato Law Firm, P.A.
Updated October 2025

The Florida Romeo and Juliet Law provides a way to seek removal from the sex offender registry. It was designed to provide relief for individuals placed on the sex offender registry because of consensual teenage relationships, not predatory behavior. Codified under Florida Statute 943.04354, the law allows qualifying individuals to petition for removal—but only if doing so is not contrary to federal law.

Attorney Rocky Brancato, a Tampa Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer with over 25 years of experience in sex crimes defense, helps clients in Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco counties prepare and argue Romeo and Juliet removal petitions with the thoroughness these cases demand.

What the Law Allows

The Romeo and Juliet Law recognizes that not all sex-related offenses involve coercion, exploitation, or violence. If your conviction stemmed from a consensual, close-in-age relationship, and you meet the specific statutory criteria, you may qualify to be removed from the registry.

To be eligible, the following conditions generally must be met:

• The victim was 13 to 17 years old at the time of the offense.
• The defendant was no more than four years older than the victim.
• The offense involved no force, coercion, or exploitation.
• The individual has no other disqualifying convictions.
• The registration requirement arises solely from this offense.

The Federal Law Requirement: “Not Contrary to Federal Law”

Even if you meet Florida’s eligibility standards, your petition will only be granted if it is not contrary to federal law. Federal law, under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA), still mandates registration for some individuals, unless the underlying facts fit within a very narrow “consensual close-in-age” exception.

To satisfy federal compliance, the court must find that:

• The sexual activity was truly consensual;
• The victim was at least 13 years old;
• The offender was no more than four years older; and
• The conduct did not involve force, coercion, or abuse of authority.

This safeguard ensures that registry relief is only granted where the conduct aligns with both Florida and federal standards.

Why These Motions Require Strategic Preparation

A motion for removal under the Romeo and Juliet Law is not a simple check-the-box filing. Judges have discretion, and prosecutors often oppose these petitions. A well-prepared motion requires far more than citing the statute—it demands investigation, documentation, and narrative clarity.

A skilled attorney will:

• Communicate with the victim (if appropriate and permitted) to confirm their position and clarify the consensual nature of the relationship;
• Review the full history of the case, including early police reports, discovery, and plea negotiations; and
• Anticipate prosecutorial and judicial concerns, addressing them directly within the motion.

Sometimes, prosecutors and judges are looking for reasons to deny these motions, especially if the case file contains inconsistencies or unresolved factual disputes. To be forewarned is to be forearmed—and preparation is the difference between denial and relief.

Why Choose The Brancato Law Firm, P.A.?

Attorney Rocky Brancato personally handles each petition from start to finish. As a former sex crimes unit supervisor with over two decades of courtroom experience, he brings a level of insight and credibility that few lawyers can match.

His approach combines legal precision with strategic preparation:

• Comprehensive case review – Examining every report, transcript, and record for consistency and eligibility.
• Proactive communication – Coordinating with the victim’s position where appropriate to avoid surprises in court.
• Discretionary awareness – Framing the petition to anticipate judicial discretion and federal compliance.

This methodical preparation gives clients the strongest chance of success while avoiding costly re-filings or permanent denials.

The Petition Process under the Florida Romeo and Juliet Law for removal sex offender registry

1. File the Motion – In the circuit court where the conviction occurred or where you now reside.
2. Notify FDLE and the State Attorney – Both must be given at least 21 days’ notice before the hearing.
3. Present Evidence – Demonstrate compliance with state and federal criteria.
4. Attend Hearing – The court will determine whether granting relief conflicts with federal law.
5. Removal from Registry – If approved, FDLE will remove your information from the public registry.

While the registry entry is removed, the underlying criminal record remains public under Florida’s open-records laws.

Get the Experienced Help You Need

If your inclusion on the Florida Sex Offender Registry resulted from a consensual teenage relationship, you may qualify for relief—but success requires precision and preparation.

Call The Brancato Law Firm, P.A. today at (813) 727-7159 to schedule a confidential consultation. Attorney Rocky Brancato will personally review your case, assess your eligibility, and craft a strategy tailored to both Florida and federal requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I be removed from the registry if the offense involved alcohol or coercion?

No. The Romeo and Juliet Law applies only to consensual acts. Any suggestion of coercion, even through alcohol, can disqualify you.

Why do judges deny some petitions even when eligibility appears clear?

Because removal is discretionary, not automatic. Judges may deny petitions based on factual ambiguities, lack of corroboration, or concerns about public safety.

Can I refile if my petition is denied?

No. Florida law allows only one petition under this statute, so it must be carefully prepared the first time.

Will I still have a criminal record if I’m removed from the registry?

Yes. Removal affects only the registry requirement, not the underlying conviction.