New Orleans, LA asked in Civil Litigation for Florida

Q: Is it against the law to keep someone locked on property without giving them a way to get out without harming them

I am 21 living in a trailer on my parents property. I have left a gate key at someones house and cannot get to it. I was let in with an extra key. My mother has refused to lend me the key to get out or open it herself when I need to leave the house. She has stated I should jump the fence. When the fence is nigh impossible to climb.

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1 Lawyer Answer
Charles M.  Baron
Charles M. Baron
Answered
  • Hollywood, FL
  • Licensed in Florida

A: Yes, that constitutes false imprisonment, which is a crime. Of course, if you have not made legal arrangements to give yourself the right to live there (such as a lease), your parents may order you to vacate, then evict you if you don't leave. Sounds like you need to make peace with your folks.

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